31 MPG combined isn’t a show-stopping number, but it represents a very specific intent when bolted to the back of the 2020 BMW i3 with Range Extender. This isn’t about cross-country road trips or hauling lumber; it’s about emission-free (or near-emission-free) urban mobility for a driver who prizes design, technology, and a forward-thinking ethos over pure fuel savings. The i3 REx buyer understands the limitations and accepts the compromises to achieve their primary goal: minimizing their environmental footprint in a stylish and engaging package.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers reveal a surprising near-parity between city and highway MPG: 30 in the city and 31 on the highway. This isn’t your typical internal combustion engine dynamic, and that’s because the i3 with Range Extender is fundamentally an electric vehicle. The 0.6L two-cylinder engine isn’t directly driving the wheels; instead, it acts as a generator to replenish the battery when it dips below a certain level. Think of it as a safety net, expanding the i3’s usability beyond the limitations of its battery pack. The consistency across city and highway driving reflects the electric motor’s efficiency at varying speeds, with the range extender kicking in as needed to maintain the battery’s charge.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 BMW i3 with Range Extender at exactly $1,850. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a predetermined mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. It’s important to recognize that this is an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the percentage of time you drive on battery power alone, and local fuel prices. However, the $1,850 figure provides a standardized benchmark for comparing the i3 REx to other vehicles, and it illustrates the potential fuel cost savings compared to a traditional gasoline-powered car driven the same distance. You can view I3 MPG across all years to decide if it meets your demands.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers offer a standardized comparison, real-world MPG for the i3 REx can vary significantly depending on how it’s used. Owners who primarily drive short distances in urban environments and diligently charge the battery will see far lower fuel consumption, potentially using the gasoline range extender very sparingly. Conversely, those who frequently undertake longer trips where the range extender is constantly engaged will likely experience MPG figures closer to, or even slightly below, the EPA estimates. The key is understanding that the i3 REx is optimized for electric driving with the range extender as a backup, not the other way around.

How it compares

Compared to other vehicles in its class, the i3 REx occupies a unique niche. A fully electric vehicle like the Chevrolet Bolt EV (around 120 MPGe combined) offers superior efficiency but lacks the range extender’s peace of mind. Plug-in hybrids like the Toyota Prius Prime (54 MPG combined and 133 MPGe) deliver similar flexibility but with a less distinctive design and a more conventional driving experience. Even traditional hybrids like the Hyundai Ioniq Blue (59 MPG combined) surpass the i3 REx in fuel economy, appealing to a buyer who prioritizes outright fuel savings above all else. The Mini Cooper SE, an all-electric, posts 110 MPGe combined. The i3 REx buyer is less concerned with outright MPG supremacy and more focused on the overall package: the i3’s distinctive styling, innovative materials, and BMW driving dynamics coupled with the security of a gasoline range extender. You can compare it to all Bmw fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Prioritize charging whenever possible. The more you rely on the electric battery, the less the range extender will be used, and the lower your fuel consumption will be. Take advantage of off-peak electricity rates to further reduce your running costs. Use the i3’s navigation system to plan routes efficiently and avoid unnecessary detours which can drain the battery and trigger the range extender.

Employ regenerative braking. The i3’s regenerative braking system captures energy during deceleration, converting it back into electricity to recharge the battery. Learn to anticipate traffic flow and lift off the accelerator early to maximize regenerative braking and extend your electric range. Practice smooth acceleration and avoid aggressive driving. The i3’s electric motor delivers instant torque, but rapid acceleration consumes more energy and reduces overall efficiency. A gentle driving style will preserve both battery range and fuel economy.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the electric motor to work harder and reducing overall efficiency. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and inflate them to the recommended levels. Remember that the Range-Extended i3 is slightly different than a pure EV, so do your research.

Consider removing any unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Extra weight increases the energy required to accelerate and maintain speed. Removing items you don’t need from the trunk and passenger compartment can improve your i3’s efficiency, particularly in city driving.