Our Fleet Test Drive: BMW i3 - 9th report

Date: 27 October 2015   |   Author: Guy Bird

Why we're running it: To see if this EV cuts in beyond the theory Equipment: 6 airbags, stability and cornering brake control, hill-start assist, auto aircon, electric windows, leather-covered multi-function steering wheel, satnav, Bluetooth hands-free facility with USB, 50:50 split-fold rear seats, rear park distance control, 19in streamline star alloys, halogen headlights Options: Lodge trim (£1500), 19in turbine alloys (£680), Harmon Kardon hi-fi (£640), DC rapid charge prep (£560), silver metallic paint (£530), Enhanced Bluetooth with USB (£350), internet (£95) Media Package - BMW Professional (£960), Park assist package inc. colour reversing cam (£790), Winter package inc. heated front seats (£260), Online Entertainment (£190)

Most of the time I can't get enough of the i3's cool 'coach' doors. Hinged at the front A-pillar and rear C-pillar they allow great access to the interior as there's no need for a B-pillar (because its safety structure is built into the rear door) - except when you're in a tightly packed car park.

As rear passengers can't open the rear door without the front door being open first, a game of door-related 'hokey cokey' can ensue. It's better than a two-door coupe, but the rear doors promise more flexibility than they sometimes deliver. Note to self: must frequent less busy car parks.  

Verdict
	Interior, driving simplicity and fun		Learning new driving and refuelling skills

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