i3

Make
BMW
Segment
Hatchback

The appeal of the BMW i3 has faded in recent years as a brace of newer electrified vehicles hit the market. Make no mistake, the i3 is still a thoroughly unique offering in the brand's lineup, but it has been around for many years. Despite this, BMW CEO Oliver Zipse was adamant that the i3 wasn't going anywhere late last year, and it looks like the model's life will continue to be extended.

In fact, Cars UK has reported that BMW may just double production of the i3 as long as the demand for it is there. The increased rate of production is due to attractive incentives being offered as the Covid-19 recovery continues.

Currently, the i3 is produced at a rate of 116 cars per day, but the manufacturer says that up to 250 i3s can be churned out every day if necessary. Along with the news that the i3 will stay in production until 2024, the extended life of the hatchback is remarkable, as is its staying power. In 2019, the i3's worldwide sales increase by over 30 percent, indicating that demand for the hatchback remains strong late into its life.

Of course, the 2020 picture is unlikely to be as rosy, but BMW clearly isn't about to drop the i3 just because it has newer electrified models on the way like the iX3 and i4.

The i3 has also been improved continuously throughout its life, having received a larger 42-kWh battery in recent times that resulted in a welcome increase to the model's all-electric range. Despite this, the i3's overall range remains unremarkable in 2020 and its charging times are particularly lengthy. Cheaper EVs like the Hyundai Kona EV and Chevrolet Bolt offer a much better range, although they can't match the charm of the Bimmer.

Fans of the i3 will be happy to know that the model is holding on for now, and we'll admit that with its rear-hinged doors and concept-like cabin, there's still nothing quite like it.