Malaysia Autoshow 2019: BMW i3s officially launched

KUALA LUMPUR: The electric battle is on in Malaysia, and the newest entrant to fight it out is the BMW i3. The EV has stepped on the podium at the ongoing Malaysia Autoshow 2019 and is attracting the masses of Malaysia big time. While the BMW i3 is available in different models like standard i3, i3 with Range Extender, i3s, and i3s with Range Extender, we have been presented with the i3s trim.

Image Courtesy: Motorme.my

The looks of the BMW i3s is rather quirky. Up front, there are upswept LED headlamps with built-in LED DRLs. A pair of horizontal LED strips can be found residing on either end of the front bumper. Looking from the sides, we can see the i3 standing tall on 20-inch alloys. Moving to the rear, the taillamps are also LED. Major elements on the outside of the car are Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) roof, thermoplastic bumpers, fenders and door panels, power-folding heated side mirrors, and others.

Hop inside the BMW i3s and you will be greeted with a premium interior that justifies the BMW tag. Available is a 10.25-inch high-resolution screen with BMW navigation business system coupled to iDRive Controller and programmable memory buttons. There are 50:50 split-folding rear seats, Kenaf interior dash and door panels, and velour floormats among others.

Power to wheels of BMW i3s comes from an electric motor that produces 181 hp of maximum power and a peak torque 270 Nm. This motor gets its juice from a 42.2 kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack equipped with an advanced active thermal management system. The power generated is sent to the rear wheels and a 0-100 kmph run takes no more than 6.9 seconds. Using the standard charger, the battery inside the BMW i3 can be fully charged in a matter of six hours.

As it is a BMW, the i3S is equipped with all the necessary safety features needed to keep the occupants inside it safe. The list comprises of multiple SRS airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), and many more life-saving features. The best part? You get an environment-friendly vehicle with tried and tested German quality for around RM 279k. What else would you ask for?