BMW’s i-series cars have been in production for about three years now. The i3 and i8 have both accumulated numerous awards for design and ecological relevance. And, while the i8 features a body constructed almost entirely from aluminum, the ultra-green i3 model’s chassis is made from carbon fiber, which is in turn manufactured at a hydroelectric-powered plant in Washington State.
It’s a boldly progressive series, and, while the crown jewel of an automotive model line has traditionally been the biggest, fastest, or most beautiful model, the i-series’ green orientation makes the humble i3 its most impressive entry. With an optional range extender that allows the car to travel up to 175 miles between charges, the hip city ride’s fuel economy rating is just shy of 140 MPG.
But, after more than three years of production, BMW recognized the fact that the i-series was in need of revision—although they call such revision a life-cycle impulse. The i8 is expected to see an overhaul in the next year as BMW rolls its i8 Spyder into production; the i3’s refresh was revealed this week.
Because the technological foundation of electric vehicles (and cars in general) has been evolving so rapidly, the powertrain and cabin features of the i3 were pretty much up-to-date before the revision; notably, though, the new i3 gets BMW’s iDrive infotainment system, a Driving Assistance suite, and more versatile TurboCord charger.
The LCI i3’s fascia is still puckish, but shows more world-weariness than the model’s previous incarnation exhibited: rakish LED fog lamps, an arched front bumper, and trim that gives the car better stylistic coherence. The rear of the new i3 is more streamlined, and receives a dash of silver trim that is matched by similar decoration along its sides.
Color scheme options have been expanded somewhat as well. But, in the end, the car’s ‘2.0’ treatment may be just what the doctor ordered for the i3: an exterior expression blended with a few key tech updates that should keep the car looking as relevant as its power source.
