BMW i3 value and depreciation
Known for quirky carbon-fibre pioneer ev.
Projected value of a new BMW i3
We class the BMW i3 as a premium (established) in our 12-tier model, which puts its retention at roughly 54% after three years and 38% after five. German and established luxury compacts and mid-sizers. A hard first-year knock, then steady losses that accelerate once the motorplan expires.
Retention table
| After | Retained | Retail value | Trade-in |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 76% | R 397 819 | R 350 081 |
| 3 years | 54% | R 285 399 | R 251 151 |
| 5 years | 38% | R 198 630 | R 174 794 |
| 7 years | 26% | R 136 128 | R 119 793 |
| 10 years | 14% | R 75 469 | R 66 413 |
Estimates for a new purchase at R 525 000; retail basis, trade-in ≈ 12% under retail.
An early EV pioneer, the i3 was sold in South Africa from 2015 to 2022 in battery-only and range-extender forms. Carbon-fibre construction and rear-hinged doors made it unlike anything else on the road. Used prices fell hard early on, which now makes it one of the cheapest routes into a premium EV.
What used i3 years are worth today
Tap a year for the full breakdown: value range, remaining depreciation, and what to pay.
i3 against its rivals
BMW i3: common questions
What is a BMW i3 worth after 3 years?
A BMW i3 bought new today for R 525 000 is projected to be worth about R 285 399 after three years, which is 54% of its price. A dealer trade-in offer would sit closer to R 251 151.
Does the BMW i3 hold its value?
We class the BMW i3 as a premium (established) in our 12-tier model, which puts its retention at roughly 54% after three years and 38% after five. German and established luxury compacts and mid-sizers. A hard first-year knock, then steady losses that accelerate once the motorplan expires.
What does a used BMW i3 cost?
As a guide: a 2020 model is worth about R 165 707 retail today, while a 2015 model sits around R 61 998. Condition, mileage and spec move real prices by 10% or more either way.
What would a BMW i3 cost per month?
Financing a new BMW i3 at R 525 000 over 72 months at 11.75% with a 10% deposit comes to roughly R 9 176 per month before bank fees and insurance.
Keep going
All figures are modelled estimates for planning, not offers or valuations. Data reviewed 2026.