BMW I3 vs Audi RS7
What's the difference?

BMW I3

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2020 price

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Audi RS7

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2020 price

View pricing & specs

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz A35

Mercedes-Benz A45

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Summary

2020 BMW I3

2020 Audi RS7

By James Cleary

By Laura Berry

Safety Rating

Electric motor type

Permanent Magnet

Twin Turbo V8, 4.0L

Vehicle type

Battery Electric

Premium Unleaded/Electric

Electric range

270 km

11.6L/100km (combined)

Energy consumption

14.6 kWh/100km

Battery capacity

42.00 kWh

Seating

Likes

Design
Dynamics
Tech

A V8 with 800Nm? Yes please
Hatchback practicality
Standard air suspension

Dislikes

Pricey
Tight rear room
Short warranty

Limited rear headroom
Rear legroom could be better
Cabin storage isn't great

2020 BMW I3 Summary

It’s easy to forget BMW was paddling into the growing electric vehicle wave when it was only a gentle swell. It took off early with the i3 city car, which believe it or not has been in the Aussie new car market for six years.

While the German maker has long been developing the concept of electrified powertrains in existing models, the i3 was the result of a dramatically different approach, showcasing the use of exotic materials and innovative packaging.

Like its i8 supercar sibling, the i3 won’t be replaced with a new-generation version, but BMW says it will continue to develop this high-tech hatch before it departs, and we spent a week in the sporty i3s to see how it stands up in 2020.

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2020 Audi RS7 Summary

If you’re looking for a sedan version of the RS 6 Avant, then you’ve come to the right place – sort of. See there is no RS 6 Sedan, but the RS 7 Sportback is the next best thing – you may even find it an even better thing because not only does it share RS 6 Avant’s outrageous engine and high-performance hardware, it’s also a sedan …but with a hatchback.

And if that kind of thing makes you happy, sit down – because the new generation RS 7 Sportback has just landed.

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Deep dive comparison

2020 BMW I3 2020 Audi RS7

Verdict

Yes, it’s pricey for a small hatch, but this little BMW is a city car like no other. The i3s is tailor made for the urban environment, and six years on retains the quirkiness and charisma that stood it apart at launch, and it can still hold its head high among the current EV crop.

Verdict

The new-generation RS 7 Sportback heralds the further evolution of this large majestic beast, with more features, a beautifully finished cabin and with more grunt with the looks to match. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better combination of power, dynamics and comfort in the Audi range – apart from in the RS 6 Avant of course.

BMW I3 vs Audi RS7 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

BMW I3 vs Audi RS7
What's the difference?