The 2018 BMW i3s (94Ah) gets an EPA rating of 112 MPGe combined, putting it in a league with very few other cars. This is exceptional for a car with the i3s’ unique style and surprising performance. The i3s is designed for drivers who value forward-thinking design and urban agility, and its efficiency makes it a top choice for eco-conscious city drivers.

City and highway performance

The 112 MPGe combined figure breaks down to 126 MPGe in the city and 99 MPGe on the highway. This shows the i3s’ strength in stop-and-go urban environments. Its regenerative braking is very effective, recovering kinetic energy during deceleration and feeding it back into the battery. The car’s design is incredibly efficient in dense traffic. The highway figure, while lower, is still competitive, though long-distance cruising will cause that number to drop as the electric motor works harder to maintain higher speeds, reducing the regenerative braking benefits.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 BMW i3s (94Ah) at just $650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a set percentage of city versus highway driving factored in, using national average electricity prices. The average gasoline-powered vehicle costs considerably more to fuel each year. This $650 figure is a significant savings for i3s owners, especially those who primarily use their cars for commuting and running errands in the city.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures offer a standard, real-world MPGe can vary depending on driving style, ambient temperature, and terrain. Aggressive acceleration and frequent use of the i3s’ “sport” mode will decrease efficiency. Extremely cold weather can also reduce battery performance. Even with these factors, most i3s owners report efficiency numbers that closely align with, or even exceed, the EPA estimates, making it appealing for urban buyers willing to adapt their driving to maximize efficiency.

How it compares

The i3s stands out among its competitors. The Chevrolet Bolt offers slightly longer range, but achieves around 120 MPGe city and 108 MPGe highway. The Nissan Leaf, a more mainstream EV, gets around 123 MPGe city and 99 MPGe highway, according to EPA estimates. Even hybrid vehicles like the Toyota Prius Prime (133 MPGe combined) are similar when operating in electric mode. The i3s, with its distinct design and premium features, delivers comparable, and sometimes superior, efficiency to more conventional electric and hybrid options. Consider all BMW fuel economy data for a broader perspective. If you’re interested in the I3S MPG across all years, check out the I3S MPG across all years data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Precondition the cabin while the vehicle is still plugged in. Heating or cooling the interior of the i3s consumes a lot of battery power. Pre-conditioning while connected to the charger reduces the drain on the battery during your drive, especially in extreme temperatures. This can make a noticeable difference in range, particularly during winter months.

Use Eco Pro and Eco Pro+ modes. The i3s offers multiple driving modes, each designed to prioritize different aspects of the driving experience. Eco Pro and Eco Pro+ modes limit the vehicle’s performance and maximize efficiency by reducing throttle response and optimizing energy consumption. These modes are ideal for city driving and situations where maximizing range is important.

Employ regenerative braking strategically. The i3s’ regenerative braking system is a critical part of its efficiency. Anticipate stops and allow the vehicle to decelerate gradually, maximizing the amount of energy recovered and fed back into the battery. Avoid abrupt braking whenever possible, as this wastes kinetic energy and reduces efficiency.

Maintain optimal tire pressure. Ensuring that your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure minimizes rolling resistance, which improves efficiency and extends range. Regularly check your tire pressure, especially during changes in temperature, as tire pressure can fluctuate. Correct tire pressure also contributes to better handling and tire wear.