31 MPG combined is a figure most drivers would associate with a compact hybrid, not a quirky, partially electric city car with a small two-cylinder gas engine acting as a range extender. But that’s exactly what the 2019 BMW i3 with the 0.6L engine delivers, and it’s a key part of the car’s appeal to a specific type of buyer: the urban commuter who wants electric driving most of the time, but needs a backup plan for longer journeys.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers for the 2019 i3 with range extender are remarkably consistent: 30 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. This consistency comes from the i3’s primary design as an electric vehicle. The gasoline engine isn’t directly connected to the wheels; it acts solely as a generator to replenish the battery. This means that in stop-and-go city driving, the electric motor does most of the work, while the range extender kicks in only when the battery is empty. On the highway, the range extender runs more consistently to maintain a reasonable driving range, resulting in similar fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

According to EPA estimates, the annual fuel cost for the 2019 BMW i3 with the range extender is $1,850. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. While this number may seem high for such a small engine, it’s important to remember that the i3 is primarily an electric vehicle that should be driven primarily on electricity. The range extender’s fuel consumption becomes a factor only when the battery is empty, making that $1,850 a reflection of occasional, rather than constant, gasoline use.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy depends heavily on driving habits and charging frequency. Drivers who charge their i3 every night and primarily travel short distances in the city will rarely use the range extender, resulting in significantly lower fuel costs. Otherwise, those who frequently undertake longer trips or neglect to charge regularly will rely more on the gasoline engine, pushing fuel consumption closer to, or even above, the EPA estimates. The i3’s dashboard display actively coaches drivers on how to drive more efficiently to maximize range and overall fuel economy.

How it compares

Comparing the i3’s fuel economy to other vehicles requires careful consideration of its unique nature. A traditional gasoline-powered compact car like the Honda Civic achieves around 33 MPG combined, exceeding the i3’s range extender figure. However, the Civic doesn’t offer the potential for zero-emission driving that the i3 provides. A more relevant comparison might be made to a plug-in hybrid like the Toyota Prius Prime, which achieves 54 MPG combined when running as a hybrid after its electric range is depleted. While the Prius Prime wins the MPG battle outright, it’s a very different vehicle both in design and driving experience. For drivers prioritizing electric driving with a safety net, the i3 remains a viable option. You can explore all Bmw fuel economy data on our website. To compare this to I3 MPG across all years, check out our model comparison research.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Aggressive acceleration puts a strain on the i3’s battery and, when depleted, the range extender. Gentle acceleration allows the electric motor to operate more efficiently and minimizes the need for the gasoline engine to kick in, even when the battery is empty. Try to anticipate traffic flow and avoid sudden bursts of speed whenever possible.

The i3 features a regenerative braking system that captures energy during deceleration and sends it back to the battery. Using this system effectively can significantly reduce reliance on the mechanical brakes and extend the electric range. Anticipate stops and ease off the accelerator early to maximize energy recovery.

While tempting, using the i3’s air conditioning or heating system can noticeably impact the battery range and, consequently, increase reliance on the range extender. When practicality allows, consider using the seat heaters or ventilation system alone. Pre-conditioning the cabin while the i3 is plugged in can also help conserve battery power during your journey.

Keep the tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the electric motor (and eventually the range extender) to work harder. Regular tire pressure checks are a simple way to improve efficiency.