BMW i3 50 xDrive First Edition shines on UK roads
BMW UK staged a dedicated drive event in Sussex to evaluate the newly launched i3 50 xDrive First Edition on British roads, a market whose width, surface, layout and quality differ markedly from other regions. The model, the second Neue Klasse vehicle after the iX3 SUV, is a four-wheel-drive electric saloon equipped with front- and rear-mounted motors, a 108.7 kWh battery, and standard 19-inch wheels. It produces 462 bhp, achieves a WLTP range of 514-566 miles depending on drive mode, and accelerates from 0-62 mph in 4.7 seconds.
During the test the i3 demonstrated solid all-round performance on the varied UK road network. Its steering offered quick lock-up and grip in tight corners while remaining smooth and stable on longer journeys, complemented by the quiet electric drivetrain. Weighing 2.2 tonnes, the i3 is lighter than many four-wheel-drive EVs, though the mass is felt in firm braking and on slow corners, where nose-dive and progressive retardation are noticeable.
Ride quality was generally supple and well-damped, but on poorly engineered sections with low-frequency, high-amplitude bumps—common on narrow, heavily trafficked routes like the Fosse Way—the car exhibited a bit more bounce than ideal. BMW’s optional adaptive dampers, priced at £775 on M Sport trim, are expected to mitigate this behaviour, though the standard dampers performed adequately for most conditions.
Compared with the conventional 3 Series equipped with the still-available 3.0-litre turbo-petrol straight-six, the ICE version retains a narrow but noticeable edge in agility and driver engagement. Nevertheless, the i3’s overall package—strong acceleration, long electric range, and refined handling—earned it a 4.5-star rating and the verdict that it is probably the best way to experience electric motoring in a compact executive saloon.
The i3’s main drawback lies in the decision it forces existing BMW owners: continue with petrol power or transition to the electric future. This choice reflects a broader shift within the premium automotive segment toward electrification.
Why it matters
The i3’s UK performance shows how premium EVs can meet the demanding conditions of Britain’s road network, informing buyers and manufacturers alike.
FAQ
What power output does the i3 50 xDrive First Edition have?
It produces 462 bhp from its front- and rear-mounted electric motors.
What is the WLTP range of the i3 50 xDrive?
The WLTP range is between 514 and 566 miles, depending on the drive mode.
How does the i3’s handling compare to the petrol 3 Series?
The petrol 3 Series retains a narrow but noticeable margin in agility and driver engagement over the i3.
Is there an option to improve ride comfort on rough roads?
Adaptive dampers are available as a £775 option on M Sport trim.
Source: AutoCar UK. See the original source for full details.
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