In-depth reviews

BMW i3 (2013-2022) interior, dashboard & comfort

It’s spacious for four people, but the BMW i3's suspension makes things a little too bumpy on typical UK road surfaces

Overall rating

3.0 out of 5

Interior, dashboard & comfort rating

3.5 out of 5

Fuel Types:
Electric, Petrol

Its electric drivetrain means the BMW i3 is hushed and calm on the move, although you're more aware of wind and tyre noise than you might be if there was an engine to drown them out. The ride quality is just too firm at times, with the UK’s often-poor road surfaces making their presence known. It’s roomy for four passengers though, and the stylish interior gives the i3 an upmarket ambiance.

BMW i3 dashboard

The i3’s dashboard has a high-tech, futuristic feel, thanks to simple but elegant design and screens in place of instruments. The ergonomics of the controls and driving position are up to BMW’s usual high standards, too. The final touch is the use of unusual renewable materials like eucalyptus wood as an option for the dashboard trim; this lends the interior a particularly attractive feel.

Equipment, options and accessories

The i3 seems pricey at first glance, but it does come with a generous amount of standard kit. Outside you get LED headlamps and indicators, as well as LED rear lamps, plus stylish 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside, BMW’s Professional Navigation is fitted to all cars, while three interior trim packages are available above the standard Atelier grade, called Loft, Lodge and Suite.

Infotainment, apps & sat nav

A 10.25-inch central display uses the BMW iDrive controller to flick through the i3’s extensive menus. The car also gets BMW's 'i ConnectedDrive' services, so you get parking and charger info as well as range factored into your navigation – the system will even account for rest stops at charging stations in on longer drives. There’s voice-recognition, too, while Apple CarPlay ensures you can connect supported smartphones.

Most Popular

Tesla Model 3 facelift will be a double-edged sword
Tesla badge
News

Tesla Model 3 facelift will be a double-edged sword

Tesla’s updated EV will have an improved interior, greater range and a more affordable price – as well as one unfortunate drawback
1 Jun 2023
Electric Ford Puma could become the UK’s best-selling EV
Ford Puma EV
News

Electric Ford Puma could become the UK’s best-selling EV

The Ford Puma EV is set to arrive in 2024 with a range of over 200 miles and a tweaked exterior design
22 May 2023
Vauxhall Astra Electric: price, range and video
Vauxhall Astra Electric
News

Vauxhall Astra Electric: price, range and video

The new Astra Electric shares its parts with the Peugeot e-308, with first deliveries due soon
31 May 2023