The BMW i3 and Volkswagen ID.3 are two of the most recognisable electric hatchbacks on the market. While the quirky i3 has been around since 2013, the more conventional ID.3 arrived in 2020 as Volkswagen's first bespoke electric vehicle built on a dedicated EV platform. So how do these two electric family cars compare?
BMW i3 vs Volkswagen ID.3
Practicality
The Volkswagen ID.3 has a significant edge over the BMW i3 in terms of practicality. Its bespoke electric vehicle underpinnings allow for a more spacious cabin with impressive rear legroom and headroom. The 385-litre boot is also a good size for a family hatchback, though there is no dedicated cable storage compartment which feels like an oversight.
In contrast, the i3's quirky design impacts on interior space. There's no middle rear seat, making it a strict four-seater, and accessing the rear seats can be awkward due to the rear-hinged door arrangement. The 270-litre boot is also quite small, though the rear seat backrests can be folded to extend the load bay when required.
Both cars have clever packaging to maximise interior space, but the ID.3's larger footprint layout gives it an advantage in user-friendliness and roominess.
Driving Impressions
As you might expect from a BMW, it comes to driving experience, the i3 has a discernible advantage thanks to its lower kerbweight and rear-wheel drive layout. It feels nimble and agile, with accurate steering and a sporty rear-driven balance. The low centre of gravity from the battery placement also aids handling.
However, the i3's firm ride can become tiring over poor surfaces, an issue not helped by large alloy wheel choices on some models. There's also noticeable wind and road noise at motorway speeds.
The Volkswagen ID.3 majors more on refinement and ease of driving. It's not a performance machine, but the instant torque from the electric motor makes it feel brisk around town. The precise steering and sure-footed chassis inspire confidence.
While not quite as much fun as the i3, the ID.3 has a more comfortable low-speed ride quality. Road and wind noise are also well suppressed, making it a relaxing motorway cruiser. Its tight turning circle is a bonus in urban areas too.
So while the BMW is the more entertaining car t drive, the softer and quieter Volkswagen is arguably the more rounded everyday proposition for the typical family user.
Technology and Equipment
Both the BMW i3 and Volkswagen ID.3 come well equipped as you'd expect from premium electric vehicles, but the ID.3 has a gets the nod in terms of the latest tech and connectivity features.
Even entry-level i3 models came with LED lights, automatic wipers and media systems with navigation and Bluetooth as standard. Higher trims added niceties like a premium Harman Kardon sound system.
The ID.3 matches those features and goes further, with all models getting LED headlights, front/rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, keyless start and a cool TFT instrument cluster. Top trims gain augmented reality satellite navigation and an enhanced sound system.
However, the ID.3's infotainment system isn't the most intuitive, requiring too many menus and sub-menus to access functions. Its touch-sensitive climate controls are also quite fiddly. The i3's iDrive system is generally slicker and easier to use.
Both have eye-catching cabin designs with premium materials, though some plastics in the ID.3 feel a little low-rent. The i3's quirky styling has also aged very well considering its 2013 launch.
So while the ID.3 packs in more tech as standard, the i3 has a slight edge in terms of an upmarket, user-friendly interior ambiance. Ultimately it may well come down to personal taste when assessing their relative in-car tech and design appeals.
Running Costs
When it comes to day-to-day running costs, there's not a huge amount to split the BMW i3 and Volkswagen ID.3. As pure electric vehicles, both avoid vehicle tax (VED) and the London Congestion Charge, while 'fuel' costs are low compared to petrol or diesel alternatives.
The ID.3 is perhaps a little less efficient in real-world driving, averaging around 3 miles per kWh on a mix of roads in our testing. However, taking advantage of cheaper overnight electricity tariffs for home charging can still make it very affordable to run.
BMW claims the i3 will cost around £135 per year to travel 10,000 miles based on an average electricity rate - making it one of the more efficient EVs on sale. Servicing costs should also be low given the car's relative simplicity.
One caveat is that insurance groups for the i3 can be quite high, while its tyres are also an expensive wear item at around £140 per corner for a premium brand.
Overall though, both cars should make affordable alternatives to conventional family transport if you can make the most of low-cost overnight electricity tariffs for charging. The ID.3 may cost a fraction more to run, but not enough to be a major deciding factor.
Verdict
Comparing the BMW i3 and Volkswagen ID.3 throws up some clear strengths and weaknesses for each electric family car.
The i3 is the more distinctive model inside and out, with funky styling and a high-quality cabin ambiance. It's also lighter and more agile to drive, though the firm low-speed ride won't be for everyone.
In contrast, the ID.3 has a more conventional and user-friendly interior layout with more space. It's not quite as fun as the BMW, but it is more refined and comfortable for everyday family use.
Both are well-equipped with tech, though the i3's iDrive system is slicker, and both should prove affordable to run thanks to the low costs of electric motoring.
Ultimately, the ID.3 is probably the smarter all-round choice for most buyers prioritising practicality and ease of use. But for those seduced by the i3's quirky charm and sharper driving experience, BMW's electric pioneer remains an appealing upmarket alternative - especially as a lightly used purchase to offset its higher list prices when new.
So while the Volkswagen ID.3 is arguably the more sensible family EV, the BMW i3 counters with extra style, character and driving verve for those who can accommodate its quirks. Whichever you choose, these are two very capable and appealing electric hatches.