BMW i3 for sale in Kenya

About the BMW i3

The BMW i3 is an innovative electric vehicle (EV) that marked BMW’s first fully electric production car. Launched under the BMW i sub-brand, it was designed to redefine urban mobility with sustainability, efficiency, and advanced technology at its core. Unlike conventional BMW models, the i3 introduced lightweight carbon fiber construction, a futuristic design, and an eco-friendly interior, making it a unique offering in the EV market.

History and Evolution

The BMW i3 was first introduced in 2013 and remained in production until 2022. It was built on a purpose-designed EV platform known as the LifeDrive architecture, featuring an aluminum chassis and a carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell to keep the weight low while ensuring structural rigidity. Over the years, the i3 saw several updates, particularly in its battery capacity and driving range.

At launch in 2013, the i3 came with a 22 kWh battery, offering a modest range of about 130 kilometers (81 miles). In 2016, BMW upgraded the battery to 33 kWh, extending the range to approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles). The most significant update came in 2018 when the battery was increased to 42.2 kWh, pushing the range to about 260 kilometers (161 miles), making it more competitive with newer EVs.

BMW also introduced a range-extender (REx) variant, which included a small 647cc two-cylinder gasoline engine that functioned as a generator to maintain the battery charge when depleted. This version was particularly appealing to those who experienced range anxiety, as it allowed the car to travel up to 320 kilometers (199 miles) with the engine assistance. Another important variant was the BMW i3s, launched in 2017, which featured a sportier design, more power, a lowered suspension, wider tires, and a sharper throttle response. This version produced 184 horsepower (135 kW) and 270 Nm of torque, making it slightly quicker than the standard i3.

Performance and Driving Experience

The BMW i3 does not use a turbocharger since it is fully electric, eliminating the need for one. Instead, it delivers instant torque, providing quick acceleration and a smooth driving experience. The standard i3 generates 170 horsepower (125 kW) and 250 Nm of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.3 seconds. The sportier i3s, with its extra power, reaches the same speed in 6.9 seconds.

One of the standout features of the i3 is its lightweight design, which significantly enhances efficiency and handling. The rear-wheel-drive layout provides a well-balanced driving dynamic, making it feel nimble and responsive, particularly in urban settings. Regenerative braking allows for one-pedal driving, where simply lifting off the accelerator slows the car down without needing to use the brake pedal, adding convenience and energy efficiency.

Range, Charging, and Energy Consumption

The driving range of the BMW i3 has improved significantly over the years, from 130 kilometers in early models to around 260 kilometers in the latest versions. Charging times vary depending on the method used. With a standard home AC charger, a full charge can take between four to eight hours, depending on the power level. Using a 50 kW DC fast charger, the i3 can reach 80% charge in just 35 minutes, making it a practical option for daily commuting and short trips.

Energy consumption is highly efficient, averaging between 12 to 16 kWh per 100 kilometers. This makes the BMW i3 one of the most economical EVs in terms of energy use, resulting in significant cost savings compared to gasoline-powered vehicles.

Safety and Security Features

BMW equipped the i3 with a range of safety features to ensure passenger protection. Its carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic chassis provides exceptional crash safety despite being lightweight. The absence of a traditional B-pillar does not compromise structural integrity, as the passenger cell is designed to absorb impacts effectively.

Active safety features include adaptive cruise control, which maintains a safe distance from other vehicles, lane departure warning to prevent unintentional lane drifting, and automatic emergency braking to mitigate frontal collisions. Parking sensors and a rearview camera make maneuvering in tight spaces easier. In terms of passive safety, the i3 is equipped with multiple airbags, including front, side, curtain, and knee airbags, while the battery is designed with crash-resistant housing to prevent damage in the event of an accident.

Unique Features and Interior Design

One of the most distinctive aspects of the BMW i3 is its innovative and sustainable design. It features suicide doors (rear-hinged coach doors) that provide easier access to the rear seats, although they require the front doors to be opened first. The interior is constructed using eco-friendly materials, including recycled plastics, eucalyptus wood for the dashboard, and wool-blend upholstery that enhances comfort while reducing environmental impact.

The i3 also offers a unique driving experience with its one-pedal operation, where regenerative braking slows the car down significantly when the accelerator is released. This feature not only enhances energy efficiency but also reduces wear on the brake pads. Additionally, the compact yet spacious interior provides a high seating position, offering a commanding view of the road, while the absence of a central tunnel creates a more open and airy cabin.

A silent and smooth ride is another highlight of the i3. With no internal combustion engine, the car operates with minimal noise and vibrations, making it particularly well-suited for city driving. Despite its small footprint, the tall body design ensures a comfortable and roomy feel inside.

Is the BMW i3 Worth It?

The BMW i3 was a groundbreaking vehicle that set new standards for urban electric cars. Its lightweight carbon-fiber construction, instant torque, and premium interior materials made it a compelling choice for environmentally conscious drivers. The car’s efficiency, along with the strong regenerative braking system, further reinforced its position as a practical and sustainable EV.

However, despite its many advantages, the i3 had some limitations. Its driving range, while improved over time, remained relatively modest compared to newer long-range EVs like the Tesla Model 3. Additionally, its high price made it less accessible to budget-conscious buyers. The unique rear-hinged doors, while stylish, could be inconvenient in tight parking spaces, and cargo space was somewhat limited.

Overall, the BMW i3 was an excellent choice for those looking for a premium, compact electric vehicle with an emphasis on sustainability and urban efficiency. Though production ended in 2022, BMW continues to expand its electric lineup with models such as the iX1, i4, and iX3, offering more range and modern technology to meet the growing demand for electric mobility.

Are you looking at buying new or used BMW i3 in Kenya? Are you looking at selling your used BMW i3 in Kenya? Do you want to know the prices of new or used BMW i3 in Kenya? Do you want to know how to import BMW i3 from Japan? Please visit our show room in Karen, Nairobi and our sales agents will guide you.

Below is a list of BMW i3 for sale in Nairobi, Kenya and also others available in Japan. You can now buy and import year 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, and 2018 BMW i3 from Japan to Kenya.