Our Fleet Test Drive: BMW i3 - 9th report
Date:
27 October 2015
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Author: Guy Bird
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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) |
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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.
BMW i3 Range Extender
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Mileage 2074 |
Official combined consumption |
186.1mpg |
Our average consumption 1554mpg |
Forecast/actual CPM 59.4p/56.8p |
P11D price |
£35,575* |
Model price range |
£30,925-35,575* |
Residual value 39.1% |
Depreciation cost £21,675 |
Fuel £1670 |
Service, maintenance and repair £1722 |
Vehicle Excise Duty £0 |
National Insurance £1031 |
CO2 (tax) |
13g/km/5% |
BIK 20/40% per month |
£28/£57 |
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Verdict
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- Interior, driving simplicity and fun
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- Learning new driving and refuelling skills
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