Best Car Reviews - 2014 BMW i3 BEV

Introduction

The 2014 BMW i3 BEV marks BMW's innovative foray into the electric vehicle market. Released in 2014, the i3 is tailored for urban dwellers and eco-conscious consumers seeking a sustainable, stylish, and highly efficient driving solution. This model stands out due to its distinctive design, sustainable construction, and agile driving dynamics, making it a notable contender in the subcompact car segment.

Design and Exterior Features

BMW’s i3 boasts a futuristic design with a compact and nimble profile. It features a modernist aesthetic, characterized by sharply contoured lines and a two-tone body finish that exudes a contemporary vibe. The design serves both form and function, enhancing aerodynamics and energy efficiency.

Unique 'suicide' rear doors for easier rear seat access.
Lightweight carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) construction.
Distinctive kidney grille that underscores BMW's traditional design language.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the i3, BMW has expertly crafted a cabin utilizing sustainable materials such as natural fibers and recycled plastics. The interior offers a spacious, airy feel with its minimalist layout and ample headroom.

High-quality leather upholstery that enhances luxury feel.
Elevated seating position for excellent roadway visibility.
Convenient features like automatic climate control and customizable ambient lighting.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the i3 is powered by an electric motor producing 170 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Although the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is a brisk 7.2 seconds, the i3 excels in urban environments, offering a nimble and responsive drive. Rear-Wheel Drive configuration provides balanced handling, making city turns and maneuvers intuitive. The i3 demonstrates a commendable 226 km range per charge, translating to approximately 15.2 kWh/100 km.

Efficient regenerative braking system.
Smooth, seamless acceleration with instant torque response.
Tight turning circle ideal for city driving.

Technology and Connectivity

Featuring a fully integrated infotainment system, the i3 provides tech-savvy features to enhance the driving experience. The system includes a responsive interface complemented by sophisticated driver assistance technologies.

6.5-inch display with iDrive controller.
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free operations.
Optional tech package with upgraded navigation and parking assist.

Safety Features

The BMW i3 emphasizes safety with both standard and advanced features, underscored by rigorous crash safety ratings typical of BMW’s reputation.

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbag system including front, side, and curtain airbags.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for assured stopping power.

Pricing and Variants

The base price of the 2014 BMW i3 BEV stands at approximately $42,000. It is available in various trims, from the standard base model to the more enhanced variants featuring myriad optional packages. In its class, the i3 competes with other electric subcompacts, typically priced within the same range, though it offers exclusive BMW features that may justify its pricing to enthusiasts.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Sustainable and environmentally-friendly design.
Agile handling ideal for urban environments.
Exceptional build quality and material selection.
Impressive range for daily commutes.
Low operational costs as a full EV.

Cons

Higher price point than some competitors.
Limited cargo and back-seat space.
Average acceleration for highway driving.
Not ideal for long-distance travel without charging infrastructure.
Some may find the design overly unconventional.

Maintenance and Common Issues

On a yearly basis, maintenance costs are relatively low due to the absence of traditional engine-related maintenance.

Battery degradation over time.
Issues with electronic systems.
Potential high cost of repairs due to specialized parts.
Limited availability of charging stations in certain areas.
Some owners report software update issues.

Rating

Overall, the BMW i3 BEV scores a commendable 8 out of 10. Detailed ratings are as follows:

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Technology: 8/10
Safety: 9/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The i3 is perfect for city life—it's stylish, compact, and zippy."
"Battery range anxiety is a real concern when traveling outside the urban jungle."
"Interior craftsmanship is top-notch, with a fresh, minimalist vibe."
"Running and maintenance costs are low, but parts can be expensive."
"The infotainment system is intuitive, though I wish the screen was larger."

Best Cars in this Category

2014 Nissan Leaf
2014 Chevrolet Spark EV
2014 Ford Focus Electric
2014 Volkswagen e-Golf
2014 Kia Soul EV

Summary

The 2014 BMW i3 BEV is ideally suited for urban dwellers and eco-friendly consumers who value sustainable design and efficiency over raw power. Its distinct styling, coupled with high-end materials and advanced technological features, make it an attractive option despite its limitations in range and space. Overall, the i3 is a forward-thinking vehicle that embodies BMW's commitment to innovation and sustainability.