Which Used Year Model of BMW i3 Is The Best Value?

First released in 2013, the BMW i3 is a hatchback with an electric powertrain and rear wheel drive. As BMW’s first vehicle with zero emissions it was branded with the “i” as part of an electric vehicle sub-brand. If you’d like to add one to your garage, you may be considering between buying new or used and CoPilot can help.

We’ve compiled information that helps to identify average pricing and mileage for used models. The information also includes what the new price was at the time of its launch and what you can pay today for that vehicle. This lets you see how much you can save. After reading the information below, you should have a good understanding of what the best model is for you.

How much can you save buying a used BMW i3?

2020 BMW i3 Quick Look:

The 2020 BMW i3 is priced starting at $44,450 and offers packages with different accessories that will add to the cost. The following are some key features and standard for the 2020 model (from BMW):

• All-electric 170-hp and 184 lb-ft of torque motor
• Occasional Use Charging Cable
• Apple CarPlay™ Compatibility
• On-board computer with Check Control: provides feedback on the vehicle’s operating status, distance to next service appointment/oil change, ,as well as other detailed information such as micro-filter status. It also provides travel information travel range on remaining charge, external temperature and more
• Park Distance Control, front and rear
• Acoustic pedestrian protection

2015 BMW i3 VS. New

2015 BMW i3 MSRP when new: $49,563

2015 BMW i3 Used Price: $15,975

Savings: $33,909 or 66%

Mileage Average: 35,286

How much you save by buying a used 2015 BMW i3

The 2015 BMW i3 doesn’t offer many of the features the 2020 model has, but considering it provides most of the features through the 2019 model, it’s a must see used model. The price tag for a used 2015 model is ideal and over 60% less than the original price, so selecting it won’t cause too much stress. However, without all the trendy features, you’re mostly buying a BMW electric vehicle without the wow.

Newer features the 2015 BMW i3 lacks

The 2015 model does not offer the following features that the 2020 model does:

• Android Auto
• Remote Engine Start
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Lane Departure Warning
• Cross-Traffic Alert
• Heated Steering Wheel
• Heated Rear Seats
• Heated Mirrors
• WiFi Hotspot
• Wireless Charging
• Apple CarPlay
• Sunroof

Is buying a used 2015 BMW i3 a good deal?

Maybe: If you’re looking for the BMW name and an electric vehicle, but aren’t interested in the latest gadgets and trends you’ll be fine with the 2015 model. It’s a great price, but without the bells and whistles you may get jealous of your friends’ new vehicles.

2016 BMW i3 VS. New

2016 BMW i3 MSRP when new: $49,310

2016 BMW i3 Used Price: $17,276

Savings: $32,034 or 65%

Mileage Average: 32,794

How much you save by buying a used 2016 BMW i3

The 2016 BMW i3 is the same model as the 2015 model. So you probably will pay more for a car that is identical to the year before. Although, the price is still right at 65% less than the original sticker price. At an average used price of $17,276, you can purchase with confidence.

Newer features the 2016 BMW i3 lacks

The 2016 model also does not offer the following features that the 2020 model does:

• Android Auto
• Remote Engine Start
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Lane Departure Warning
• Cross-Traffic Alert
• Heated Steering Wheel
• Heated Rear Seats
• Heated Mirrors
• WiFi Hotspot
• Wireless Charging
• Apple CarPlay
• Sunroof

Is buying a used 2016 BMW i3 a good deal?

Maybe: If you’re looking for the BMW name and an electric vehicle, but aren’t interested in the latest gadgets and trends you’ll be fine with the 2016 model. It’s definitely a friendly price point, but with no frills, you might be looking for an upgrade soon.

2017 BMW i3 VS. New

2017 BMW i3 MSRP when new: $50,873

2017 BMW i3 Used Price: $19,900

Savings: $30,973 or 61%

Mileage Average: 25,564

How much you save by buying a used 2017 BMW i3

The 2017 BMW i3 has a few more options than the two years prior. It still won’t hurt your pocket book at 61% less than the original MSRP price. At an average used price of $19,900, you can buy without worrying too much.

Newer features the 2017 BMW i3 lacks

The 2017 model does not include only a few less features than the 2015 and 2016 models:

• Android Auto
• Remote Engine Start
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Lane Departure Warning
• Cross-Traffic Alert
• Heated Steering Wheel
• Heated Rear Seats
• Heated Mirrors
• WiFi Hotspot
• Wireless Charging

Is buying a used 2017 BMW i3 a good deal?

Maybe: With just a few upgrades from the 2015 and 2016 models, you may just pass this one over. You can get a sunroof, so if that is important this is the first model that offers one. The 2018 model lacks the same features, so it is a better option at a lower price.

2018 BMW i3 VS. New

2018 BMW i3 MSRP when new: $51,677

2018 BMW i3 Used Price: $26,134

Savings: $25,543 or 49%

Mileage Average: 16,998

How much you save by buying a used 2018 BMW i3

The 2018 BMW offers the same features as the prior year, so putting down $26,134 for a used one may not be the best decision. If you do buy one you’ll save nearly 50% from the original MSRP price, which was $51,677.

Newer features the 2018 BMW i3 lacks

Like the previous year, the 2018 model does not include only a few less features than the 2015 and 2016 models:

• Android Auto
• Remote Engine Start
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Lane Departure Warning
• Cross-Traffic Alert
• Heated Steering Wheel
• Heated Rear Seats
• Heated Mirrors
• WiFi Hotspot
• Wireless Device Charging

Is buying a used 2018 BMW i3 a good deal?

Probably not: The 2017 model offers the same features at a lower price, and with close average mileage. (However, if you find a good deal on a 2018 model don’t turn it down!)

2019 BMW i3 VS. New

2019 BMW i3 MSRP when new: $52,374

2019 BMW i3 Used Price: $35,119

Savings: $17,255 or 33%

Mileage Average: 6,992

How much you save by buying a used 2019 BMW i3

The 2019 BMW i3 has the most features compared with the four years prior. You’ll pay a little more than the other years, but you still save 33% from the original price, which was about $52,374.

Newer features the 2019 BMW i3 lacks

Here are the features that the 2019 BMW i3 lacks when compared to a new 2020 model:

• Android Auto
• Remote Engine Start
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Lane Departure Warning
• Cross-Traffic Alert
• Heated Steering Wheel
• Heated Rear Seats
• Heated Mirrors
• WiFi Hotspot

Is buying a used 2019 BMW i3 a good deal?

Maybe: The 2020 model is a pretty sizable upgrade over the 2019 model in terms of features, but you’ll pay more. Unless you’re a fan of BMW and/or EVs and want to save money, this one is probably not worth the purchase.

What’s The Best Used BMW i3 Deal?

If you’re looking for the best used EV at the best price, it’s incredibly hard to beat the 2015 BMW i3. While it lacks some of the cutting-edge features the 2020 model has, it has most of the features offered on the earlier models of i3, plenty of range to scoot around town, and can be picked up for an absolute steal - 66% off MSRP for a vehicle with 35k miles is nothing to scoff at.

For the easiest way to compare year models of BMW i3 back-to-back and search used listings in your area, check out CoPilot Compare. Only see cars 5 years or younger with low mileage and CPO options - CoPilot Compare is the best way to buy a nearly-new car at a great price.