BEST USED HYBRID CAR BMW i3
OUR PICK BMW i3 REX 2014 (64), 15,438 miles, £17,500
WHILE BMW’S i8 hybrid sports car is dramatic and exciting, the most impressive product to come from the company’s forward-thinking ‘i’ sub-brand is the i3. And with prices of second-hand examples of the more appealing i3 Range Extender now around the £17,500 mark, it’s possible to buy one of the most advanced hybrids around for a relatively small sum.
The distinctive and futuristic styling helps the hybrid hatchback stand out, yet it’s under the skin where its real appeal lies. BMW’S innovative use of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic means an impressively lightweight structure, improving performance, handling and range. The 168bhp electric motor is packaged away neatly at the back of the car and offers pleasingly swift, silent performance. In this REX model a 34bhp petrol generator boosts total range from 81 miles in the EVonly car to around 180 miles, reducing range anxiety.
Despite its advanced construction and powertrain, the i3 operates like a regular car. It handles sweetly and offers a 0-30mph time to rival most sports cars, while it’s refined, even if the ride is a little firm.
There are plenty of sustainable materials inside, but any second-hand i3 should have stood up well to use, with the cabin still looking fairly fresh thanks to the high-quality finish. Even though the car is a few years old, the interior still feels modern, with an airy, open feel and minimalist digital instruments that put even brand new hybrids and EVS to shame. There’s loads of tech, too, including a smartphone app that can control charging and even pre-heat or cool the car.
This tech has proven relatively reliable as well; we haven’t heard any horror stories about the electric motor, petrol range extender or the charging system.
There are more practical hybrids, but the i3 has room enough for four, plus suicide rear doors aid access to the back. And while the 260-litre boot isn’t huge, there’s underfloor storage for the all-important charging cables.
“Despite advanced construction and powertrain, the i3 operates like a regular car, and handles sweetly”