39 MPG combined is an important data point for the 2016 BMW i3 REX. It doesn’t automatically make it a fuel-sipping champion, but it does allow urban commuters to drastically reduce their gasoline consumption without sacrificing premium-car sensibilities. This is not an economy car; it’s a forward-thinking vehicle for those who value efficiency, technology, and distinctive design.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers reveal a nuanced picture of the i3 REX’s fuel consumption. Its 41 MPG city rating tops the combined figure, speaking directly to the car’s reason for existing: navigating dense urban environments. Stop-and-go traffic, where conventional gasoline cars waste fuel, presents less of a problem for the i3 REX because its electric motor handles most of the propulsion. By contrast, the 37 MPG highway figure tells a different story.

Longer trips at consistent speeds put more strain on the gasoline range extender (REX), a 0.6-liter two-cylinder engine, thus emphasizing the electric drive’s limitations when asked to handle sustained high velocities. For buyers who primarily drive on the highway, other options might offer better real-world efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 BMW i3 REX at $1,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price estimate. It’s important to understand how this number is derived. Your personal fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, the gasoline prices in your area, and how often you use the all-electric range versus engaging the gasoline range extender.

Those who primarily drive short distances within the electric range will spend significantly less than $1,500 annually on gasoline. Conversely, those relying heavily on the REX for extended journeys will likely exceed this amount. The $1,500 figure serves as a benchmark for the *potential* cost of operating the i3 REX, useful for comparing it to other vehicles, but not necessarily predictive of every owner’s experience.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the 2016 i3 REX is highly dependent on the driver’s charging habits and route profiles. Owners who diligently charge their i3 REX daily and primarily undertake short trips will see their gasoline consumption plummet, effectively beating the EPA estimates, and even pushing MPG to over 100. However, neglecting regular charging and relying on the REX for longer distances will diminish fuel economy. The design calls for urban EV driving with the range extender in place for longer trips. The REX is there as a bridge, not the main event.

How it compares

The i3 REX operates within a specific niche, a compact, premium EV with a gasoline range extender, making direct comparisons challenging. A fully electric vehicle like the Nissan Leaf (rated at 111 MPGe combined for the 2016 model year) eliminates gasoline consumption entirely, but it lacks the i3 REX’s range-extending safety net. A plug-in hybrid like the 2016 Chevrolet Volt (42 MPG combined, 106 MPGe combined) offers a different approach, prioritizing electric range but with a more conventional gasoline engine as backup.

A conventional hybrid like the Toyota Prius offers much less electric range but is much cheaper and larger; the 2016 Prius rings in at 52 MPG combined. These numbers highlight the trade-offs inherent in each powertrain configuration. The i3 REX customer values the security of a gasoline backup without wanting a full-sized gasoline engine.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Consistent charging is critical. The more you operate within the i3 REX’s electric range, the less you’ll rely on the gasoline engine, and the better your overall fuel economy will be. Take advantage of off-peak charging rates to minimize electricity costs and maximize the benefits of electric propulsion.

Gentle acceleration and braking can significantly impact efficiency, particularly in city driving. The i3 REX features regenerative braking, which captures energy during deceleration and converts it back into electricity to replenish the battery. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid sudden stops.

Using climate control affects fuel economy, particularly when relying on the REX. Running the air conditioning or heater places extra load on the engine. You can precondition the car before you leave by setting the climate control while plugged in. This greatly reduces initial strain on the electric system.

Monitor tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the electric motor or range extender to work harder. Check tire pressure at least once a month and maintain the recommended levels specified on the doorjamb sticker. Also, explore I3 MPG across all years.

Plan your routes to use charging opportunities. For longer trips, identify charging stations along your route and schedule charging stops. Use navigation systems that provide real-time traffic information and route optimization to avoid congestion and minimize energy consumption. If you want to do further research beyond this model year, you can compare all Bmw fuel economy data.