If you’re shopping for a compact used EV, the 2019 BMW i3 probably keeps popping up. Its carbon-fiber body, tall greenhouse and rear-hinged doors make it look more concept car than commuter, and the upgraded 42.2 kWh battery finally gave the i3 usable real-world range. In 2025, that combination of character and efficiency makes the 2019 i3 one of the most interesting used EV buys, if you understand its strengths and limits.
Quick take
The 2019 BMW i3 is a premium, city-focused EV with roughly 120–140 miles of realistic electric range, excellent owner satisfaction, and heavy depreciation that now works in your favor as a used buyer.
Why the 2019 BMW i3 is on so many shortlists
2019 BMW i3 at a glance
By 2019, BMW had already refined the i3 formula. The early cars launched with an 81‑mile EPA range; the 2019 BMW i3 120 Ah bumped that to about 153 miles and added features like improved LED lighting and updated interior trims. For urban and suburban drivers who rarely exceed 70–80 miles in a day, that’s more than enough, especially with DC fast charging as a backstop on road trips.
Who the 2019 i3 fits best
The 2019 i3 shines if most of your driving is city or short‑hop suburban use. If you routinely do 150–200‑mile highway days with limited charging, you may want a longer‑range EV instead.
2019 BMW i3 key specs: range and charging
2019 BMW i3 core specs
Key technical specs that matter when you’re buying a used 2019 BMW i3 today.
| Spec | 2019 i3 (BEV) | 2019 i3s (BEV) |
|---|---|---|
| Battery (gross) | 42.2 kWh (120 Ah) | 42.2 kWh (120 Ah) |
| EPA electric range | ~153 miles | ~153 miles (slightly lower in some tests) |
| Drivetrain | RWD, single‑speed | RWD, single‑speed |
| Power | 170 hp / 184 lb‑ft | 181 hp / 199 lb‑ft |
| 0–60 mph | ≈7.2 seconds | ≈6.8 seconds |
| Top speed | 93 mph | 99 mph |
| DC fast charge | up to 50 kW | up to 50 kW |
| Onboard AC charger | 7.4 kW | 7.4 kW |
Figures below are for U.S. 2019 models; real‑world results vary with temperature, terrain and speed.
On paper, a 153‑mile EPA rating may look modest next to newer EVs advertising 250+ miles. The key is how you plan to use the car. In mixed driving, many owners report 120–140 miles of real‑world range on the 2019 BMW i3, with less in cold winters and more in mild weather. That’s plenty for most daily commutes plus errands, and the i3’s compact footprint makes parking and city maneuvering painless.
Home & workplace charging
With its 7.4 kW onboard AC charger, the 2019 BMW i3 pairs well with a Level 2 home charger. On a 240V circuit it can go from low state of charge to full in roughly 5–6 hours. That means you can comfortably recover a heavy day’s driving overnight.
Public & road‑trip charging
The i3’s DC fast‑charging max of about 50 kW won’t match newer 150 kW+ EVs, but it’s enough to add 60–80 miles in 30–40 minutes when you need it. For longer trips, you’ll want to plan stops carefully and accept a slower overall pace than in a long‑range EV.
Watch your winter range
In cold climates, it’s normal to see the 2019 i3’s usable range drop 20–30%. Pre‑conditioning the cabin and battery while plugged in helps, and Recharged’s battery health data can show how your specific car is performing versus typical values.
Battery pack, longevity and warranty
For EV shoppers, the battery is the headline. The 2019 BMW i3 uses a 42.2 kWh lithium‑ion pack (120 Ah cells) mounted low in the floor, with active thermal management. From new, BMW backed the high‑voltage battery with an 8‑year / 100,000‑mile warranty against excessive capacity loss, which means many 2019s are still under battery warranty today depending on in‑service date and mileage.
Understanding 2019 i3 battery life
What you should know about aging, capacity and replacement
Typical degradation
Battery warranty window
Why independent testing matters
How Recharged checks i3 batteries
Every BMW i3 listed on Recharged includes a Recharged Score battery health report. We verify usable capacity, look for imbalance or DC fast‑charging abuse, and roll that into a simple score alongside fair‑market pricing so you can compare 2019 i3s side by side.
Driving experience: performance and ride
Even among EVs, the 2019 BMW i3 feels distinct behind the wheel. Instant torque, rear‑wheel drive and a very short wheelbase make it extremely nimble in traffic. Officially, the standard i3 hits 60 mph in a bit over 7 seconds, with the i3s shaving a few tenths. That’s not Tesla‑quick, but it’s more than enough to feel lively merging or darting through city gaps.
- Light, accurate steering makes low‑speed maneuvers and parking effortless, though some drivers wish for more road feel at higher speeds.
- The suspension is tuned for comfort on urban streets; sharp potholes can still be felt thanks to the skinny, tall tires.
- One‑pedal driving is strong, with aggressive regenerative braking that lets you do most slowing without touching the brake pedal.
- The upright seating position and large windows give excellent visibility, reinforcing the i3’s role as a city car.
Owner satisfaction is high
Owner review aggregates for the 2019 BMW i3 show roughly 4.7 out of 5 stars, with more than 90% of reviewers saying they’d recommend the car. Performance, quality feel and the unique design are frequent highlights; value is the most common complaint, which is good news when you’re buying used.
Reliability, common issues and running costs
On the whole, the 2019 BMW i3 has fared well for reliability. Electric powertrains eliminate many traditional wear items, there’s no oil to change and far fewer moving parts than in a gasoline BMW. Independent reliability ratings commonly score the i3 above average among compact luxury cars, and real‑world owner feedback is largely positive.
2019 BMW i3 reliability snapshot
What tends to go right, and what to watch
Drivetrain
Chassis & body
Electronics
Potential trouble spots
On older i3s, watch for 12‑volt battery weakness, noisy wheel bearings, worn tires (they’re a unique skinny size), and out‑of‑date software. Range‑extender versions have a small gasoline engine that adds its own maintenance needs.
Running costs are generally low compared with a comparable gasoline BMW. You’ll spend far less on ‘fuel,’ especially if you can charge at home on an off‑peak electric rate, and routine maintenance is mainly tires, cabin filters and brake fluid. Insurance can be a bit higher than a mainstream compact due to the carbon structure and BMW parts prices, worth building into your budget.
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What is a fair used price for a 2019 BMW i3?
Heavy first‑owner depreciation is where used EV shoppers win. Market data in late 2025 shows a typical private‑party resale value around the low‑five figures for a 2019 BMW i3, assuming average mileage and good condition. Retail asking prices at dealers and EV specialists will be higher, reflecting reconditioning, warranty coverage and profit margin.
2019 BMW i3 typical price bands (2025 market)
Approximate U.S. pricing bands for 2019 BMW i3 models; actual prices vary by region, mileage and equipment.
| Condition & mileage | Expected asking price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| High mileage (80k+ miles) | $8,000–$10,000 | Likely ex‑commuter cars; verify battery health carefully. |
| Average mileage (40–80k miles) | $10,000–$14,000 | Most of the market; options and battery health matter most here. |
| Low mileage (<40k miles) | $14,000–$18,000+ | Top‑condition examples, i3s trims and rare option packages can command a premium. |
Use these as ballpark ranges, then refine based on battery health, mileage, options and sale channel.
Look past the sticker price
Two similarly priced 2019 i3s can have very different total cost of ownership. A slightly more expensive car with strong battery health and documented maintenance can be the smarter buy than a bargain with an unknown history.
Trim levels: i3 vs i3s and the range extender
In 2019 the BMW i3 lineup in the U.S. centered on two main flavors, the standard i3 and the sportier i3s, with an optional gasoline range extender (REx) on some configurations. Knowing which combination you’re looking at is critical, because it changes how the car drives and how you’ll use it.
Standard i3 (BEV)
- 170 hp, comfort‑oriented suspension
- Best efficiency and range of the lineup
- Ideal for city commuting and light highway use
i3s (BEV)
- 181 hp, sportier suspension and stance
- Slightly quicker 0–60 mph and sharper handling
- Range similar but can be marginally lower in spirited driving
REx variants
- Small 2‑cylinder gasoline generator and tiny fuel tank
- Adds safety net when chargers are scarce
- More complexity, slightly less EV range, extra maintenance
REx and local regulations
Because of emissions rules, some regions have restricted registration of new range‑extender i3s in recent years. Used cars are generally fine, but it’s worth confirming any local quirks with your DMV before you commit to a REx model.
How the 2019 BMW i3 compares to other used EVs
If you’re cross‑shopping a 2019 BMW i3, you’re probably also looking at used Chevrolet Bolts, Nissan Leafs and maybe early Tesla Model 3s or Model S with higher mileage. Each plays a different role.
Where the 2019 i3 stands out, and falls short
Quick comparison with common used EV alternatives
Strengths vs rivals
- Premium cabin: The i3’s airy interior, sustainable materials and BMW build quality feel more upscale than most compact EVs of its era.
- City maneuverability: Ultra‑tight turning circle and compact size make it a parallel‑parking hero.
- Depreciation advantage: Heavier value drop than some rivals means you can get a lot of car for the money now.
Limitations to consider
- Range vs new EVs: Even with the 42.2 kWh pack, it trails newer 60–80 kWh EVs for long‑distance flexibility.
- Quirky packaging: Rear‑hinged back doors and small cargo area may frustrate families.
- DC charging speed: 50 kW is fine but modest in the fast‑charging arms race.
Think of the 2019 i3 less as a one‑car‑does‑everything solution and more as a highly capable, efficient urban tool, with surprising personality, at a price that’s finally moved into mainstream territory.
Inspection checklist before you buy a 2019 BMW i3
Used 2019 BMW i3 pre‑purchase checklist
1. Confirm battery health and remaining warranty
Ask for documentation of battery capacity tests or a third‑party report. Verify the original in‑service date so you know exactly how much of the 8‑year/100,000‑mile battery warranty is left, if any.
2. Check charging hardware and history
Test both Level 2 and DC fast charging if possible. Inspect the charge port for damage and ask how often the car has been fast‑charged, which can affect long‑term battery wear.
3. Inspect tires, brakes and suspension
Those tall, narrow tires are unique and not cheap; uneven wear can hint at alignment issues. Listen for clunks over bumps and check for brake vibration at speed.
4. Look for accident repairs
Carefully inspect body panels and gaps. Because the i3 uses a carbon‑fiber passenger cell with aluminum substructures, major collision repairs can be expensive; ask for a full vehicle history report.
5. Test all electronics and driver aids
Cycle through iDrive, navigation, Bluetooth, cameras and parking sensors. Confirm that all warning lights clear after startup and that there are no unresolved recall notices.
6. For REx models, evaluate the engine
On a range‑extender 2019 i3, listen for rough running, verify recent oil and spark plug changes, and make sure the engine starts and stops smoothly when the battery is low.
Make it easier with a third‑party inspection
If you’re buying private‑party, consider pairing your test drive with an inspection from an EV‑savvy shop. When you buy through Recharged, that work is already done, our technicians and battery diagnostics team vet every vehicle before it’s listed.
How Recharged helps with used BMW i3 shopping
The 2019 BMW i3 rewards informed shoppers. The challenge is separating a great example from one that’s been neglected or priced optimistically. That’s where Recharged is built to help.
Shopping a 2019 i3 with Recharged
What you can expect from our platform
Transparent battery health
Fair market pricing
Financing, trade‑ins & delivery
Whether you’re trading out of an older gas car or another EV, you can get an instant offer or consign your vehicle through Recharged, then roll that value into a 2019 i3 purchase. Our goal is straightforward: make used EV ownership, starting with models like the BMW i3, simple and transparent.
2019 BMW i3 FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the 2019 BMW i3
Bottom line: is the 2019 BMW i3 right for you?
The 2019 BMW i3 is no longer the range benchmark in the EV world, but it remains one of the most distinctive and city‑friendly electric cars you can buy, especially at today’s used prices. If your daily life lives inside its real‑world range envelope and you appreciate clever packaging, premium materials and a small footprint, it’s an easy car to like and live with.
As with any used EV, the details matter: battery health, charging history, remaining warranty and realistic pricing. Leverage tools like the Recharged Score, transparent market data and EV‑savvy support to make sure the 2019 i3 you pick is the right one. Do that, and this quirky BMW can be a smart, sustainable and genuinely enjoyable addition to your driveway.
