BMW 118i
Hatchback · Gasoline · FWD
vs
i3
Hatchback · Electric · FWD
BMW 118i
Car A
BMW 118i
The BMW 118i balances efficient running (5.5 L/100 km) with the practicality of a five-seat hatchback for city and small-family use. It prioritizes everyday ease over outright performance.
5 seatsHatchbackGasoline5-star safety
i3
Car B
i3
An electric hatchback aimed at city driving, it offers responsive power, five seats, and a usable 300 km range at a price that is good value in its segment. Less ideal for cargo-heavy needs or harsh winters.
5 seatsHatchbackElectric5-star safety170 hpElectric
Why compared performance gapdifferent powertrainsame body typesame brandsame seatssimilar price

Usage fit

Family 62 / 62
City 60 / 88
Budget / value 64 / 68
Road trip 41 / 31
Performance 30 / 26
Cargo 20 / 20
Practical 51 / 54
Premium 45 / 39
Winter 26 / 20

Scores out of 100. Blue = BMW 118i · Orange = i3

Specs side-by-side

Spec BMW 118i i3
Values are representative — confirm for your market and trim.

Pros & cons

BMW 118i

  • Efficient for its class at 5.5 L/100 km
  • Practical five-seat hatchback with a 360 L trunk
  • Easy to drive in the city thanks to FWD and compact size
  • Good value in its segment at about 35,000

i3

  • Hatchback layout suits city driving and easy everyday loading
  • 300 km range from a 42.2 kWh battery covers most daily commutes
  • Punchy 170 hp and strong horsepower ranking aid confident urban merging
  • Seats five with a 360 L trunk for small-family practicality

Verdict

Pick BMW 118i if…
Efficiency & everyday ease
BMW 118i is the choice if fuel economy and city-friendly driving are your priority.
Pick i3 if…
More power
i3 puts out 170 hp vs 140 — meaningfully quicker and more confident on motorways.

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