Electric cars are like consumer electronics in the way their technology improves dramatically with each generation.
The i3 is among the oldest electric car designs, and it shows up against rivals that considerably outpace its range for far less money.
The Chevy Bolt EV is a perennial favorite for its excellent range, comfortable ride, and palatable price tag.
The Nissan Leaf doesn’t have quite the range of the Bolt EV, though its safety tech is a big step up.
Kia’s Niro and Hyundai’s related Kona both make excellent choices and boast impressive real-world range.
They’re bargains and should not be missed.
If you’re looking at electric cars, certainly the Tesla Model 3 is on your list—and we can’t blame you as it’s a great vehicle with a minimalist interior that may or may not hold appeal.
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 2020 BMW i3 |  2020 Chevrolet Bolt EVGet Your Price |  2020 Hyundai Kona Electric |  2020 Kia NiroGet Your Price |  2020 Tesla Model 3Get Your Price |
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| Quick Specs | ||||
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Once cutting edge, the 2020 BMW i3 has fallen well behind other electric cars. Only purists need apply. |
A few more miles of range and modest upgrades push the 2020 Chevy Bolt EV electric hatchback back at the top for (non-Tesla) range, but there are other more charming urban electric cars. |
At less than $30,000 after tax credits, the 2020 Hyundai Kona Electric is a great-value, high-range EV…even if it isn’t available everywhere. |
The 2020 Kia Niro is a compelling eco-friendly car for those opposed to Prius-like looks. |
It’s not perfect, but the 2020 Tesla Model 3 has a devoted following and growing list of fans. |
| MSRP From | ||||
| $44,450 | $36,620 | $37,190 | $24,590 | $35,000 |
| Gas Mileage | ||||
| 46 MPG City / 46 MPG Hwy | ||||
| Engine | ||||
| Electric | Electric | Electric | Gas/Electric I-4 | Electric |
| EPA Class | ||||
| Subcompact Cars | Small station wagon | Small SUV 2WD | Small Station Wagons | Midsize Cars |
| Style Name | ||||
| 120 Ah | 5-Door Wagon LT | SEL FWD | LX FWD | Standard Range RWD |
| Drivetrain | ||||
| Rear Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| N/A | 4 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||||
| Hatchback | Wagon | Sport Utility | Sport Utility | Sedan |
| Transmission | ||||
| Automatic | NA | Automatic | Auto-Shift Manual w/OD | Automatic |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
| 2020 BMW i3 vs. 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV | 2020 BMW i3 vs. 2020 Hyundai Kona Electric | 2020 BMW i3 vs. 2020 Kia Niro | 2020 BMW i3 vs. 2020 Tesla Model 3 | |
