BMW i3s
The carbon-fibre city car gets a wider track and a sharper edge.
- Power
- 184 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.8 s
- Top speed
- 99 mph
- Est. value
- $11k–$18k
About the BMW i3s
Introduced for the 2018 model year, the i3s is the performance-oriented evolution of BMW's pioneering electric city car. It features a 10mm lower sports suspension, a 40mm wider track, and unique 20-inch wheels to improve handling and stability over the standard model. The LifeDrive architecture remains its standout feature, utilising a carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell mounted on an aluminium chassis. While the i3s offers a more aggressive 'Sport' driving mode and increased power, it retains the quirky sustainable interior and rear-hinged suicide doors that define the model's futuristic character.
BMW i3s specs
The BMW i3s produces 184 bhp (137 kW) and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.8 seconds and has a top speed of 99 mph (160 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | i3s |
| Trim | Electric |
| Years | 2017–2022 |
| Type | Electric |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Germany |
| Original price | About $48,000 when new |
| Engine | Rear-mounted electric motor |
|---|---|
| Induction | Electric |
| Power | 184 bhp (137 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 11,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.8 s |
| Top speed | 99 mph (160 km/h) |
| Transmission | Single-speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,340 kg (2,954 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 137 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a BMW i3s worth?
A typical BMW i3s is estimated to be worth $11,000 – $18,000 (about £8,200 – £13,000).
Its original price when new was about $48,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
BMW i3s rarity in CarSpot
The BMW i3s is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
BMW i3s fun facts
- The i3s features a unique 'Sport' mode that sharpens throttle response and adds weight to the steering, a first for the i3 range.
- To accommodate the wider track, the i3s is fitted with subtle gloss black wheel arch flares that distinguish it from the standard car.
- The electric motor in the i3s can spin up to 11,000 rpm, maintaining a more linear power delivery at higher speeds than the base model.
