BMW i3 pricing depends on the model year and whether you buy new or used

The BMW i3 is a compact electric car that BMW stopped making in 2024. New i3 models are no longer available from BMW dealers, but used i3s from recent years are still on the market. The price you'll find depends heavily on the year, mileage, battery size, and condition of the specific car you're looking at.

Used i3s from 2023 typically range from $25,000 to $40,000 depending on mileage and trim level. Older models — 2020 to 2022 — often cost between $18,000 and $32,000. The exact price varies by location, dealer markup, and whether the car has the larger battery option (which adds range and cost). Certified pre-owned i3s from BMW dealers tend to cost more than private sales or independent dealers.

Key Takeaways

  • Used BMW i3 prices range from roughly $18,000 to $40,000 depending on model year, mileage, and battery size.
  • The i3 is no longer in production, so you are shopping the used market only — there are no new models available from BMW.
  • Battery size matters: the larger battery option increases both the original price and the resale value.
  • Certified pre-owned i3s from BMW dealers cost more than private sales but come with a warranty and inspection history.
  • Federal tax credits for used electric vehicles may reduce your out-of-pocket cost if you meet income and price limits.

How battery size affects the price you'll pay

The BMW i3 came with two battery options: the standard battery and the larger battery. The larger battery gave the car more range — roughly 150 to 200 miles per charge depending on driving conditions, compared to 100 to 130 miles with the standard battery. A used i3 with the larger battery typically costs $3,000 to $8,000 more than the same year and mileage with the standard battery.

When you're shopping, the battery size is listed in the vehicle details. You can also check the window sticker or ask the dealer directly. If you plan to use the car for daily commuting under 100 miles, the standard battery may be sufficient and will lower your purchase price. If you need longer range or want more flexibility, the larger battery is worth the extra cost.

What model year means for price and range

Newer model years cost more but often have improved battery technology and longer range. A 2023 i3 with the larger battery can go roughly 200 miles on a full charge, while a 2019 i3 with the same battery size might go 150 to 170 miles. The difference comes from battery improvements and efficiency gains BMW made over the years.

If you're buying used, a 2022 or 2023 i3 will hold its value better than a 2018 or 2019, but it will also cost more upfront. Older models depreciate faster, so you may find better deals on 2019 to 2021 models if you're budget-conscious. Check the battery health report if available — some dealers provide this, and it tells you how much capacity the battery has retained after years of use.

Federal tax credits for used electric vehicles

You may be able to reduce your purchase price through a federal tax credit for used electric vehicles. As of 2024, the credit is up to $4,000 for a used EV if you meet certain requirements. The car must be at least two years old, and the sale price must be under $25,000. Your household income must also fall below certain limits — these vary by family size but are roughly $60,000 for an individual and $120,000 for a family of four.

The credit is applied when you file your taxes, not at the point of sale. You claim it on your tax return for the year you bought the car. Not all used i3s will may have access to — the price cap of $25,000 rules out many newer or lower-mileage models. Check your income against the current limits and the sale price of the specific car before assuming you'll receive the credit.

Where to find used BMW i3s and compare prices

Used i3s are listed on major car marketplaces like Autotrader, Cars.com, and Craigslist. BMW dealers also have certified pre-owned i3s, though these typically cost $2,000 to $5,000 more than the same car sold by an independent dealer. The higher price reflects the dealer's inspection, warranty, and service history documentation.

When comparing prices across listings, note the mileage, battery size, trim level, and whether the car is certified pre-owned or sold as-is. A car with 30,000 miles will cost more than one with 60,000 miles, even if they're the same year. Check multiple listings in your area to get a sense of the typical price range for the specific model year and condition you're interested in.

Additional costs beyond the purchase price

The purchase price is not your only cost. Insurance for an electric vehicle is often similar to a gas car of the same age and value, but get a quote before buying. Registration and title fees vary by state but typically run $100 to $300. Some states offer tax breaks or reduced registration fees for electric vehicles — check your state's rules.

Charging at home requires either a standard outlet (slow, taking 12 to 24 hours for a full charge) or a dedicated Level 2 charger (faster, taking 4 to 8 hours). A Level 2 charger installation costs roughly $500 to $2,000 depending on your electrical setup. Public charging is often free or low-cost, but home charging is usually cheaper per mile. Maintenance is lower than gas cars — no oil changes, and brake wear is reduced by regenerative braking — but battery repairs are expensive if needed after the warranty expires.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW i3 still being made?

No. BMW discontinued the i3 in 2024. You can only buy used i3s from the used car market. BMW has replaced it with the i4 and other newer electric models, but the i3 itself is no longer in production.

What's the difference between the i3 and the i3s?

The i3s is a sportier version with a more powerful motor and slightly different styling. It costs more than the standard i3 but offers better acceleration. Both come with the same battery options, so the main difference is performance and appearance rather than range.

Can I negotiate the price of a used i3?

Yes, especially with private sellers and independent dealers. Certified pre-owned i3s from BMW dealers have less room for negotiation because the price is set by the dealer's appraisal process. Always get a pre-purchase inspection from an independent mechanic before agreeing to a price.

How long does the battery last, and what does replacement cost?

BMW's battery warranty typically covers 8 years or 100,000 miles. After that, replacement can cost $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the battery size and your location. Most used i3s still under warranty have less risk, but older models may face high repair costs if the battery fails.

Should I buy new or used?

You cannot buy new — the i3 is discontinued. If you want a new BMW electric car, you would need to look at the i4 or i7 xDrive50. For the i3 specifically, you're shopping used only, so focus on finding the right year, mileage, and battery size within your budget.