BMW i3 vs Fiat 500e
Buy the BMW i3 for the stronger all-round Decoder Score (48/100). Choose the Fiat 500e if you road-trip and want faster charging.
48 BMW i3 EV Decoder estimate | 37 Fiat 500e EPA + mfr data | |
|---|---|---|
| Decoder Score | 48 | 37 |
| Starting price | $30,000 | $35,700 |
| Used from | $12,000 | — |
| EPA range | 153 mi | 149 mi |
| Real-world range | 125 mi | — |
| Battery | 42 kWh | 42 kWh |
| Efficiency | 4.1 mi/kWh | 3.4 mi/kWh |
| DC fast charge | 50 kW | 85 kW |
| Level 2 charge | 11 kW | 11 kW |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Cargo | 15 cu ft | 19.4 cu ft |
| 0–60 mph | 6.9s | 8.5s |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 117 hp |
| Drivetrain | RWD | FWD |
| Towing | — | — |
| Battery warranty | 8 yr | 8 yr |
| Tax credit | No | No |
| Owner rating | 4.2/5 | — |
| Best for | Commuter, Budget | Commuter, Value |
Price
The BMW i3 starts lower at $30,000, versus $35,700 for the other. On the used market both have come down — check current listings before deciding.
Range
The BMW i3 leads on EPA range at 153 mi. In the real world both land around 82% of that in mixed driving — run your conditions through the range calculator.
Charging
The Fiat 500e peaks higher at 85 kW, which shortens road-trip stops. Also check plug type: NACS access to the Supercharger network can matter more than a few kW.
Interior & practicality
The Fiat 500e offers more cargo room (19.4 cu ft). Consider seating layout and rear space too, not just the headline number.
Performance
The BMW i3 is quicker to 60 mph (6.9s). Both feel brisk in everyday driving thanks to instant electric torque.
Family use
With 4 seats, the BMW i3 suits larger families better. Factor in car-seat access and cargo behind the third row if fitted.
Road trip use
Road trips reward range plus fast charging. The BMW i3 scores higher on our road-trip metric.
Used buyer notes
Both depreciate; that's the used buyer's opportunity. Check battery health, any open recalls, and that the charging port matches the network you'll use. See the used EV buying guide for a full checklist.
BMW i3, for most people.
Run the numbers for your own driving with the calculators, then compare more EVs in the same class.