BMW i3 vs BMW 1 Series petrol

If you’re looking for a family hatchback, the BMW i3 and 1 Series are two of the more opulent choices.

The i3 was something of a trailblazer for electric cars, combining compact dimensions and a taxilike turning circle with a luxurious interior.

However, the 1 Series also offers a posh (if signi cantly less memorable) driving environment, while also having a superior ride and handling balance.

When it comes to dependability, the i3 avoided motor failures, but it didn’t come away with a clean record. The majority of its issues were related to the bodywork, non-motor electrics and suspension, and a small proportion of cars suffered battery and gearbox faults.

Around one in ve cars was rendered undriveable by its issues, and half of these immobile examples took more than a week to repair. Additionally, owners whose warranties had lapsed were faced with bills of up to £300.

In contrast, less than half as many 1 Series went wrong, with the most common problems being related to the fuel system and brakes. A larger proportion of faulty 1 Series could still be driven than the i3, but they all took more than a week to repair. All the 1 Series we were told about were still covered by BMW’S standard three-year warranty.

MOST RELIABLE

BMW 1 SERIES Although the i3 is more reliable than the average family car, it’s the 1 Series that comes out on top here. It’s less likely to develop faults, and you’ll probably be able to drive it to a garage if it does, saving you from shelling out on a recovery service.