BMW 3 Series vs BMW i3
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BMW 3 Series starts from $89,900 before on-road costs, while the BMW i3 opens at $109,900. That makes the BMW 3 Series the more affordable entry point by $20,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $98,890 and $120,890 respectively.
The BMW i3 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The BMW 3 Series, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The BMW 3 Series features a 14.9-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the BMW i3 gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW i3 counters with head-up display, wireless charging, heated front seats and power tailgate that the BMW 3 Series does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BMW 3 Series uses a Petrol producing 190kW and 400Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 6 seconds.
The BMW i3 responds with a Electric making 250kW and 430Nm, paired to a auto driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds.
The BMW i3 has the clear power advantage at 250kW vs 190kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW 3 Series is 1.9s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BMW 3 Series measures 4,709mm long on a 2,851mm wheelbase, matching the BMW i3 at 4,709mm (2,851mm wheelbase).
Boot space is 480L in the BMW 3 Series and 260L in the BMW i3, giving the BMW 3 Series a 220L advantage.
For towing, the BMW 3 Series leads with a 1,800kg braked capacity vs 750kg. That 1,050kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 11.4m
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (BMW 3 Series) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW i3). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW 3 Series if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW i3 if: You prioritise performance, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW 3 Series takes 4 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the BMW 3 Series has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, BMW 3 Series and BMW i3?
The BMW 3 Series is the cheapest at $89,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the BMW i3 by $20,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The BMW 3 Series uses the least fuel at 7.1L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — BMW 3 Series all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The BMW 3 Series has the largest boot at 480L.
Which can tow the most?
The BMW 3 Series has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,800kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The BMW i3 makes the most power at 250kW. The BMW 3 Series is quickest to 100km/h in 6s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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