2017 BMW I3 review
BMW I3 highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Longer range
- Nimble performance
- Attractive interior
Cons
- Odd rear door setup
- High cargo load floor
- Limited trunk capacity
Battery range (EPA estimate)
114 miles
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
Shop with your budget in mind
Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.
Big city style with practical electric range
Enjoy your time behind the wheel in the redesigned 2017 BMW i3. This innovative electric hatchback offers a dynamic driving experience tailored to modern lifestyles. With newly introduced powertrain options, including a larger battery for extended range, the i3 ensures versatility for urban explorers and road-trip warriors alike. Plus, its sleek design, advanced technology, and luxurious amenities elevate the driving experience wherever your travels take you.
All BMW I3 years
What is new for the 2017 BMW I3?
- The Range Extender trim has been discontinued for 2017.
- I3 trims have been upgraded with Cloth Seats and Parking Sensors as standard equipment this year.
- Sunroof(s), Power Seat(s), Memory Seat(s), Full Roof Rack, and CD Audio features are now available as options on select trims.
- The Deka World Range Extender trim now comes with AM/FM Stereo, Auxiliary Audio Input, Bluetooth Technology, Navigation System, and Satellite Radio Ready as standard equipment.
- The Mega World Range Extender trim now comes with Smart Key and Overhead Airbags as standard equipment.
- The Giga World Range Extender trim now comes with Overhead Airbags and Bluetooth Technology as standard equipment.
- The Tera World Range Extender trim now comes with Overhead Airbags as standard equipment.
- The Mega World trim now comes with Overhead Airbags as standard equipment.
- The Deka World trim now comes with AM/FM Stereo, Auxiliary Audio Input, Bluetooth Technology, Navigation System, and Satellite Radio Ready as standard equipment.
- The Giga World trim now comes with Overhead Airbags and Bluetooth Technology as standard equipment.
- The Tera World trim now comes with Leatherette & Cloth and Overhead Airbags as standard equipment.
BMW I3 photos
5 reasons to buy the 2017 BMW I3
1. Improved powertrains
The BMW i3 debuts in 2017 with enhanced electric driving capabilities thanks to updated powertrain and battery options. The base level is now called the 60Ah and features a 170-hp electric motor and a 22-kilowatt-hour battery that provides an EPA-estimated 81 miles of range on a full charge.
Climbing to the Base trim, the 2017 BMW i3 uses the same electric motor and a 33-kWh battery for an EPA-estimated 114-mile range on a full charge, which is ideal for longer trips. The 2017 model also features a REX version with a 0.6-L two-cylinder gasoline generator that can travel an EPA-estimated 180 miles on a full charge and a full tank of gas.2. Pleasing performance
Discover a thrilling driving experience with the 2017 BMW i3, where lightweight construction, a low center of gravity, and rear-wheel-drive configuration ensure exceptional agility and responsiveness. Seamlessly merging into traffic and confidently navigating city streets, its powerful electric motor delivers swift acceleration and effortless torque. From tight corners to highway cruising, the i3 offers dynamic performance that redefines electric driving, whether commuting or taking road trips.
3. Creature comforts
Experience unmatched comfort and sophistication in the interior of the 2017 BMW i3. Comfortable seats and a refined ride elevate every journey, while the quiet cabin ensures a serene driving experience, especially in all-electric mode. The telescopic steering wheel offers ample adjustment, catering to drivers of all heights, while the elevated backseat provides additional comfort for passengers. With 31.9 inches of legroom and 37.2 inches of headroom, the 2017 BMW i3’s rear seats offer a spacious and accommodating environment. Plus, the optional sunroof adds a touch of luxury to your driving experience.
4. Infotainment features
Immerse yourself in cutting-edge technology with the in-cabin features of the 2017 BMW i3. The 60 Ah trim offers standard Bluetooth® connectivity and a navigation system with a 6.5-inch display screen, ensuring seamless connectivity and easy navigation. Upgrade to the Base and REX trims to access real-time traffic data integrated into the navigation system, providing up-to-date information on your route. Explore additional optional packages, such as the Technology + Driving Assistant package, which enhances navigation with a widescreen display and advanced local search capabilities. For added convenience, consider the Parking Assistant package with a rearview camera for effortless maneuvering.
5. Available driver aids
Elevate your driving experience with the advanced optional driver aids available in the 2017 BMW i3. With the available Technology + Driving Assistant package, all-speed adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking ensure heightened awareness on every journey. Additionally, the optional Parking Assistant package offers further convenience with features like front parking sensors and automated parking, making maneuvering and parking in tight spaces a breeze.
Shop with your budget in mind
Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.
Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
4.8 out of 5
13 customer reviews| 5 Stars | 10 |
|---|---|
| 4 Stars | 3 |
| 3 Stars | 0 |
| 2 Stars | 0 |
| 1 Star | 0 |
RepairPal gave the BMW I3 an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent. This rating ranks BMW I3 1st out of 1 among Luxury Cars.
View RepairPal's full rating of the BMW I3BMW I3 features and specs
Curious how BMW I3 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
Range Extender 2WD 4D Hatchback
Standard Features
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bluetooth Technology
- Cloth Seats
- Cruise Control
- Front Seat Heaters
- Leatherette & Cloth
- Navigation System
- Overhead Airbags
- Parking Sensors
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear Spoiler
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Traction Control
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- Automated Cruise Control
- Automated Parking
- Bluetooth Technology
- Harman Kardon Sound
- Leather Seats
- Navigation System
- Parking Sensors
- Rear View Camera
- Smart Key
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
0.6L
Horsepower
170
Torque (ft-lbs)
184
Engine type
Plug-in Hybrid
Fuel capacity
2.4
Wheelbase
101"
Overall length
157"
Width
70"
Height
62"
Leg room
F 40.5"/R 31.9"
Head room
F 39.6"/R 37.2"
Front tires
P155/70R19
Rear tires
P175/60R19
Seating capacity
4
Transmission
Automatic
2017 BMW I3 FAQ
The 2017 BMW I3 is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- : Battery range of 114 miles.
- Range Extender: Battery range of 97 miles.
- Giga World: Battery range of 80 miles.
- Deka World Range Extender: Battery range of 97 miles.
- Giga World Range Extender: Battery range of 97 miles.
- Tera World Range Extender: Battery range of 97 miles.
The BMW I3 received a rating of 4 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Excellent. This rating ranks the BMW I3 as 0 out of 1 among Luxury Car
The 2017 BMW I3 has received an average 4.8 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2017 BMW I3, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2017 BMW I3 Reviews.
Here is what's new for the 2017 BMW I3:
- Parking Sensors
- Cloth Seats
- Leatherette Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
Research other vehicles
- Used BMW I3 Hatchbacks near me for sale
- Used 2017 BMW I3 near me for sale
- Used Electric BMW I3 near me for sale
- Used 2015 Electric BMW I3 near me for sale
- Used Electric BMW I3 S near me for sale
- Used Gray BMW I3 near me for sale
- Used Hybrid BMW I3 S near me for sale
- Used BMW I3 with Leather Seats near me for sale
- Used 2017 BMW I3 Mega World near me for sale
- Used 2020 BMW I3 S near me for sale
- 2025 Audi S8 review
- 2025 Audi SQ5 review
- 2025 Audi SQ5 Sportback review
- Used BMW buying guide
- 2014 BMW I3 review
- 2015 BMW I3 review
- 2018 BMW I3 review
- 2019 BMW I3 review
- 2020 BMW I3 review
- 2025 BMW M2 review
- 2025 BMW M235 review
- 2025 BMW M240 review
- 2022 BMW Z4 review
- 2023 BMW Z4 review
- 2024 BMW Z4 review
- 2017 Chevrolet Caprice review
- 2015 Chevrolet Captiva Sport review
- 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV review
- 2020 Chevrolet Spark review
- 2021 Chevrolet Spark review
- 2023 Chrysler 300 review
- 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan review
- 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan review
- 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan review
- All things EV
- 2015 Fiat 500L review
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.
We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.



