BMW Australia is ready to introduce the uprated, 2019 BMW i3 120Ah model, which offers more power and an increased range over the existing version.
The new model’s battery storage is doubled, to 42kWh, and incorporates a 120Ah lithium-ion setup which is also doubled from the current 60Ah system. Thanks to this, the real-world range is extended from 130km to a much more desirable 260km.
Two models are being introduced, including the standard i3 and the sporty i3s. In the standard i3 the output is rated at 125kW, while the new i3s is rated at 135kW. Across the 0-100km/h sprint the eco city car stops the clock in 7.3 seconds and 6.9 seconds, respectively. Speaking about the new model, BMW Group Australia CEO Vikram Pawah said:
“Effectively doubling the real-world driving range from the i3’s 2013 global introduction, the newest addition to our BMW i stable remains a trailblazer. Beyond that, the constant evolution of materials and specification, as well as the i3s sports- focused variant, makes the car more relevant than ever.”
BMW i3 customers can use the standard Type 2 charging plug to recharge the car, with both single- and three-phase AC charging. Both models are also capable of taking in a 50kW DC setup. A normal domestic plug is provided as standard for emergencies, and BMW offers its iWallbox Plus.
Using a domestic 1.8kW socket, the full charging time is 19.5 hours, while a single-phase Wallbox at 3.7kW cuts this to 9.7 hours, and a three-phase Wallbox at 11kW drops this to 3.2 hours. If you get your hands on a 50kW DC plug, it only takes 42 minutes.
Technical stuff aside, the 2019 i3 will be available in a fresh Jucaro Beige exterior colour with Frozen Grey highlights. There’s also a new ‘Loft’ interior design, with Electronic Brown trimmings and cloth/Sensatec upholstery. The seat material is made from 100 per cent recycled polyester.
The new model is available to order now, with prices starting from the following (excluding on-road costs). See further below for the highlight features.
2019 BMW i3 120Ah: $68,700
2019 BMW i3s 120Ah: $69,900
Standard highlights:
- Telephony with wireless charging
- BMW i Interior Design ‘Loft’
- Comfort Access System
- Navigation system Professional with iDrive6
- Driving Assistant Plus, including:
Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function
Speed Limit Information
Forward Collision Warning
Pedestrian Warning - Driving Assistant Package including:
Rear view camera
Active Park Distance Control
Fully automated parallel Parking Assistant - BMW ConnectedDrive Services including:
Real-time traffic information
Intelligent Emergency Call
TeleServices
Remote Services
Connected+
Concierge Services
USB Map Updates
Apple CarPlay
BMW i3s 120Ah standard highlights:
- 20-inch BMW i light alloy wheels, Double-spoke style 431
- Driving Experience Control including SPORT mode
- Specific traction control system
- Sport Suspension – lowered by 10mm
- Sport Steering
