113 MPG combined puts the 2020 BMW i3 in a unique position in the car world, alongside other electric vehicles. This isn’t about comparisons to hybrid sedans or efficient crossovers; it’s about recognizing the i3’s purpose: emission-free city driving with some BMW sporty handling. It appeals to buyers who value sustainability and modern design over everything, buyers who understand the trade-offs and appreciate the i3’s unusual character.

City and highway performance

The i3’s impressive combined rating breaks down to 124 MPG in the city and 102 MPG on the highway. These figures show the i3’s design priorities. The city number shows its efficiency in stop-and-go traffic, where regenerative braking captures wasted energy. The highway number, though lower, is still great and shows aerodynamic limits at higher speeds. Also, these numbers are very consistent if you don’t frequently drive at very high speeds on the highway.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 BMW i3 at just $650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average electricity prices. Buyers driving shorter distances, or those who can charge during off-peak hours with lower electricity rates, could pay even less. Drivers of gas-powered cars often spend much more yearly, so the savings are clear, especially considering the long-term cost of owning a car.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers are a standard benchmark, but real-world range and efficiency depend on a few things. Driving style, outside temperature, and using features like air conditioning all matter. You can expect slightly lower range in cold weather because of increased battery drain and the energy needed to heat the cabin. Gentle acceleration and maximizing regenerative braking will extend your range closer to the official numbers. Understanding these factors and changing your driving habits can greatly improve your real-world mileage. Refer to I3 MPG across all years for more data.

How it compares

Comparisons to gas-powered cars don’t really apply. The i3 is different. However, looking at other electrics gives some context. The 2020 Nissan Leaf, for example, gets around 111 MPG combined. The Chevy Bolt might get similar numbers. These cars are affordable ways to get into electric driving, but the i3 stands out with its carbon-fiber reinforced plastic build, unique styling, and a more premium driving feel. Someone wanting to maximize range might consider a Tesla Model 3 Long Range (131 MPGe), but the i3 appeals to a buyer who values design and city maneuverability as much as efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use regenerative braking. The i3 has a strong regenerative braking system that allows for near one-pedal driving in many situations. Predict traffic flow and lift off the accelerator early, letting the car slow down smoothly and recover energy. This greatly reduces the need to use the friction brakes, extending both range and brake pad life. Choose “ECO PRO” mode to reduce throttle response, which helps you avoid aggressive acceleration.

Pre-condition the cabin while plugged in. Heating or cooling the cabin uses a lot of energy, especially in cold weather. Use the i3’s pre-conditioning feature to warm or cool the interior while the car is connected to the charger. This way, the energy comes from the grid instead of the battery, saving your range for driving. Be careful how much heat you are using on shorter trips because heat uses more power than AC systems.

Keep proper tire inflation. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, which lowers efficiency. Regularly check and keep the recommended tire pressure for your i3. This will improve fuel economy, extend tire life and improve handling. You can find the recommended tire pressure on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The i3 is already lightweight because of its carbon-fiber build, but carrying extra items in the car adds to the overall weight and lowers efficiency. Remove any extra cargo that you don’t need to carry regularly, keeping only essentials in the vehicle. Visit all Bmw fuel economy data to learn more.