Best Car Reviews - 2018 BMW i3s (94Ah) with Range Extender

Introduction

The 2018 BMW i3s (94Ah) with Range Extender represents BMW's push toward sustainable urban mobility while retaining the sporty essence that the brand is known for. Released in 2018, this subcompact car is tailored for eco-conscious drivers seeking a blend of electric efficiency and versatile performance. With a distinct design philosophy and cutting-edge technology, the i3s stands out in a rapidly growing segment.

Design and Exterior Features

The BMW i3s maintains its uniquely recognizable silhouette — compact yet charismatic. While some might consider its aesthetic unconventional, the i3s has made a name for itself with its boldness and innovative approach.

Dimensions: The i3s is a subcompact with a surprisingly spacious cabin for its size.
Standout Design Elements: Features such as the suicide doors for easier rear seat access and a distinctive two-tone color scheme exude modernity.
Aerodynamics: Its sleek lines and bold curves aren't just for looks; they enhance the car's aerodynamic capabilities, contributing to its efficiency.
Improved Lighting: The LED headlights are not only energy-efficient but also provide superior visibility.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the i3s, BMW has crafted a blend of sustainability and luxury. The materials used are eco-friendly, yet the craftsmanship speaks of BMW's commitment to quality.

Cabin Layout: An open, airy feel is complemented by a minimalist dashboard adorned with high-quality, recycled materials.
Luxurious Touches: The use of eucalyptus wood and leather upholstery elevates the interior beyond typical subcompact expectations.
Comfort Features: Heated seats, automatic climate control, and an intuitive seating arrangement ensure a comfortable ride.
Spaciousness: Despite its size, the i3s offers ample legroom and storage options, making it ideal for city dwellers.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the i3s features a PHEV configuration that delivers delightful city and highway experiences. Powered by a 2-cylinder engine with a range extender, it supplements the electric motor to ease range anxiety.

Engine Power: The rear-wheel-drive system coupled with an automatic (A1) transmission offers smooth transitions and exciting drives.
Acceleration and Speed: It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just over 7.7 seconds, emphasizing its sporty nature.
Driving Experience: In cities, the i3s offers quick maneuverability and ease of parking. On highways, it remains stable, while cornering exhibits the precision BMW is known for.
Fuel Efficiency and Range: With a fuel consumption of 5.4 l/100km and a combined electric range that extends your adventure, the i3s is both economically and environmentally viable.

Technology and Connectivity

Technology is engrained into every aspect of the i3s, delivering an experience that is both intuitive and engaging.

Infotainment System: An 8.8-inch display runs BMW’s iDrive interface, providing seamless navigation and entertainment options.
Connectivity: Features like Bluetooth 5.0, USB ports, and wireless charging keep you connected on the go.
Driver Assistance: Includes adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and automatic parking to enhance safety and convenience.
Wireless Updates: The system supports over-the-air updates for an evolving experience.

Safety Features

Safety innovation is at the forefront of the i3s design.

Standard Safety Features: Includes multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control as part of the comprehensive safety suite.
Advanced Technologies: Features such as collision warning with automatic emergency braking and blind-spot detection augment safety.
Crash Test Ratings: The i3s boasts excellent ratings in crash safety tests, reassuring its occupants of their security.
Driver Awareness: A 360-degree camera aids in situational awareness, making city driving stress-free.

Pricing and Variants

The 2018 BMW i3s with Range Extender starts at approximately $47,650 USD. While on the pricier side of subcompacts, it justifies cost through unparalleled tech and luxury features.

Competitor Comparison: Stacks up against rivals like Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt in the premium subcompact electric market.
Available Trims: The model primarily focuses on a singular configuration with customizable options for personalization.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Sporty and unique design
Eco-friendly materials and construction
Excellent handling and performance for a subcompact
Rich technology suite
Extended range for peace of mind

Cons

Higher base price compared to other subcompacts
Limited legroom in the rear seats for taller passengers
Trunk space is modest
Charging infrastructure still developing in some areas
Peripheral visibility could be improved further

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance for the i3s averages around $1,200 USD.

Common issues include:

Battery degradation over time
Potential electronic system glitches
Wear on tires due to regenerative braking
Occasional infotainment freezes
Rare range extender issues

Rating

The BMW i3s scores a healthy 8.5 out of 10 overall.

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

User Reviews and Feedback

"Love the unique design and how eco-conscious the cabin materials are."
"Amazing handling in the city and quite efficient range for my needs."
"The tech features are substantial, although occasional glitches are a little annoying."
"Great car for daily commutes, but trunk space is a bit small for road trips."
"Higher price tag, but the driving experience and plush interior make it worth it."

Best Cars in This Category

2018 Nissan Leaf
2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV
2018 Tesla Model 3
2018 Hyundai Ioniq Electric
2018 Kia Soul EV

Summary

The 2018 BMW i3s (94Ah) with Range Extender is an ideal choice for urban drivers who value style, sustainability, and tech-forward innovation. It might carry a steeper price tag, but its dynamic performance, eco-friendly design, and impressive array of features offer great value for those ready to embrace electric mobility without compromising on luxury.