Practical plug-ins
Used twin test
Years: 2013 to date EV power/torque: 160bhp/250nm Insurance group: 21 Official range: 120 miles Why? The i3 is better to drive than the e-golf, and has a more distinctive exterior than other cars in this class.
£17,000
Prices from:
THE i3 was the first car to be released by BMW’S innovative new i division. It was built from the ground up to take electric power, and the styling certainly stands out. Taller, narrower and shorter than the Volkswagen e-golf by a significant margin, it not only has real road presence but is also a fine city car.
It’s not quite as practical as its rival here, as boot space trails the e-golf’s by 81 litres, yet the imaginative layout and high-set driver’s seat create a roomy feel in the futuristic cabin, which is packed with technology. Similarly, the i3 retains a common theme consistent with most BMWS – it’s fun to drive. The steering is responsive, acceleration is instant and its 93mph top speed slightly eclipses the VW’S.
However, the i3 struggles on twisting roads, where it feels slightly unstable. Despite this, its 160bhp output ensures an enjoyable journey throughout the claimed 120-mile range, while an eight-year battery warranty corresponds with that of the e-golf, too.
★★★★★
THE i3 is easier to drive than the e-golf, and while it trails on boot space, its roomy and unique interior compensates for this. It’s lighter, too, and has a bold, distinctive appearance.
★★★★★
WITH its large luggage area and roomy cabin, the e-golf is still a great choice. However, the stiff suspension makes the driving experience hard to enjoy; this isn’t a problem with the i3.
Years: 2014 to date EV power/torque: 113bhp, 270Nm Insurance group: 10 Official range: 118 miles Why? Well built, with a traditional design that offers plenty of space, the Volkswagen is a fine electric car.
£18,000
Prices from:
RELEASED nearly 12 months after the i3, the e-golf is an adaptation of the family car favourite rather than an EV built from the ground up. That means it has a traditional exterior that blends seamlessly into a crowd – unlike the BMW. This will suit some people, but others will prefer the unmistakable image of its rival here.
Either way, the 341-litre boot capacity greatly surpasses the i3’s 260 litres, and the interior remains very similar to that of the standard Golf. There’s plenty of passenger space, so the car can comfortably transport four adults.
Despite the e-golf’s silent drivetrain and undemanding feel, the AC electric motor gives engaging performance, with peak power of 114bhp delivering an 87mph top speed. The trouble is, the stiff suspension provides a fidgety feel that’s unsuited to twisty roads, and marks the car out from standard petrol or diesel Golfs. An eight-year warranty on the battery is handy, though, and the 118-mile claimed range is only a shade behind the i3’s.
Buying cars As more drivers realise they can live with an electric car every day, we pick from two used buys