BMW
i3
Mitsubishi
i-MiEV
BMW i3 vs Mitsubishi i-MiEV: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the BMW i3 comes out ahead of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
i3
Overall
Extremely positive sentiment among owners, characterized by deep affection for the vehicle's unique character, driving dynamics, and innovative design. The i3 is consistently praised as a "fantastic," "fun," and "special" car that delivers an engaging, go-kart-like driving experience due to its lightweight construction (approximately 1.3-1.4 tons), rear-wheel-drive layout, and instant electric torque. Owners express strong satisfaction with its practicality as a city commuter, low operating costs, and the spacious, futuristic interior.
Best version to buy
The i3S variant is frequently recommended for its improved handling, more settled high-speed demeanor, and slight power increase over the base model. Well-equipped examples with the Tera World interior, Technology Package, Harman Kardon sound, heat pump, and large screen are highly valued.
Known issues
- ⚠Drive motor bearing failures (pre-2018 models): Catastrophic failure requiring complete motor replacement, with repair quotes from $7,500 to $13,000. Linked to driving style and mileage, with noises often starting around 70,000 miles.
- ⚠Air conditioning compressor failures: Complete system failures requiring expensive replacement, with reports of misdiagnosis by dealerships. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Range Extender (REx) generator issues: Insulation faults and humidity-related problems, particularly in early model years. Small 11L fuel tank and high fuel consumption in REx mode. Frequency: recurrent.
i-MiEV
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and highly dependent on purchase context and expectations. Among owners who purchased the vehicle used for a very low price (e.g., $6,100 USD for a 2012 model with 22,000 miles), it is viewed positively as a reliable, economical "running around town" car, perfect for short commutes, school runs, and local errands. These owners appreciate its minimal maintenance costs and suitability as a first car or secondary urban vehicle.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to distinguish between model years or trims. No specific "best" version is identified in the discussions.
Known issues
- ⚠Severely limited range, especially in cold weather: real-world range can drop to approximately 40 miles (64 km) in temperatures between 0-32°F (-18-0°C). Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Significant battery degradation: cited alongside the first-generation Nissan Leaf as an EV with notable battery degradation issues, attributed in part to its air-cooled battery pack. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Underpowered performance: described as sluggish, with poor acceleration; notably lost a drag race against a Smart ED. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Mitsubishi i-MiEV is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the BMW i3, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Mitsubishi i-MiEV are a dealbreaker, the BMW i3 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the BMW i3 or the Mitsubishi i-MiEV?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Mitsubishi i-MiEV than the BMW i3. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the BMW i3 or the Mitsubishi i-MiEV?
The BMW i3 seats more passengers than the Mitsubishi i-MiEV on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the BMW i3 is classed as a Sedan, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV as a Hatchback.
Which has better fuel economy, the BMW i3 or the Mitsubishi i-MiEV?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the BMW i3 or the Mitsubishi i-MiEV?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.