Here are the cars going up against the new BMW i3

BMW has just introduced the latest model in its new wave of electric vehicles – the i3. It’s arriving as the new electric version of the popular 3 Series, bringing a host of technologies and the longest range of any production EV – 559 miles.

But while that range is impressive, the i3 still has plenty of rivals to go up against. How do they compare? Let’s take a look.

Mercedes CLA

The Mercedes CLA is one of the i3’s key competitors. Like the BMW, it’s a relatively compact saloon which is focused on efficiency and getting as much range out of a single charge. It still has a very respectable range at 462 miles, while a charge speed of 320kW allows for a 10 to 80 per cent charge in 22 minutes.

Like the i3, the CLA’s interior is packed with technology, including a large central infotainment screen and secondary driver’s display.

Kia EV6

The EV6 has been around for a little while but despite this, it’s still one to beat. Launched back in 2021, it was well ahead of its time, but some updates over time mean that it’s still able to keep up with rivals here.

For instance, it can still deliver up to 328 miles of range, while a top-whack charge speed of 258kW can allow for a 10 to 80 per cent charge in 18 minutes.

Audi A6 e-tron

Though it is larger than the i3, Audi doesn’t currently offer a compact saloon car so it’s the A6 e-tron which will be going up against the BMW. Like the ‘regular’ A6, the e-tron version has been designed to offer high levels of refinement and practicality, wrapped up in a sharp-looking package.

It’s got a range of up to 463 miles and, unlike the i3, can be specified in estate or ‘Avant’ form for those who want a more practical option.

Polestar 2

Polestar may have introduced a series of sharp new models with its 3 and 4, but it’s the 2 which really put this Scandinavian brand on the map. Though a little older now, the 2 still makes for a very fine electric car and one which has a lot to offer. In fact, Long Range Single Motor cars can still return up to 409 miles, putting the 2 right in contention with some of the latest cars here.

Inside, the 2 has a stripped-back interior which is focused around the large main screen. It runs Android Automotive services as standard, too, meaning that Google-based apps such as Maps are installed without the need for a smartphone.

Tesla Model 3

Tesla remains a big name in the EV world and though the popularity of its cars may have fallen back, they’re still an option that many drivers lean towards. The 3 is arguably one of the brand’s most successful models and it’s one that the i3 will have squarely in its sights.

It’s got a range of up to 466 miles, so it can go the distance. Plus, owning a Model 3 gets you access to the widespread Tesla Supercharger network which provides speedy and reliable charging.

MG IM5

MG has quickly transitioned into an electrified vehicle brand and the new IM sub-brand is here to deliver the car’s more luxurious models. It’s one which is available with a variety of motor and battery setups, with the longest-range versions bringing up to 441 miles from a single charge.

The IM5 also has an incredibly rapid maximum charge speed of up to 396kW, which would allow this car to manage a 10 to 80 per cent charge in 17 minutes.

Hyundai Ioniq 6

The streamlined Ioniq 6N is another car that the BMW i3 is going to have to tackle when it arrives on the scene this Autumn. Recently updated, the 6 has loads of tech to offer, while its interior has an intuitive setup thanks to lots of physical controls.

Underneath, there’s a range of powertrain options, with certain versions able to return up to 338 miles of range.