2016 BMW I3

If you're searching for a 2016 BMW i3 for sale in Santa Ana, CA, your search ends here at ALSBOU MOTORS - SANTA ANA. This sleek gray hatchback is a standout example of BMW's forward-thinking electric vehicle lineup, combining German engineering with eco-conscious driving in one of the most unique and capable EVs ever produced. With 58,478 miles and the rare Range-Extended (REx) powertrain, this i3 offers the freedom of electric driving without the range anxiety that holds so many buyers back.

About This 2016 BMW i3 Range Extender

This 2016 BMW i3 REx is one of the most compelling used EVs available in Orange County. The Range Extender model adds a small two-cylinder gasoline engine that acts as a generator — it doesn't drive the wheels, but it does recharge the battery on the go, giving you a meaningful buffer when you need to travel beyond a standard charge. At just over 58,000 miles, this i3 sits comfortably within a mileage range that still leaves plenty of life in both the electric drivetrain and the supplemental REx system. The gray exterior gives it a modern, refined look that pairs perfectly with BMW's distinctive angular body design.

2016 BMW i3 Performance and Engine

Electric Power with Real-World Confidence

The 2016 BMW i3 REx is powered by a range-extended electric drivetrain producing 168 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. That torque is delivered instantly — a hallmark of electric motors — making acceleration from a stop surprisingly brisk and responsive. The i3 sprints from 0 to 60 mph in around 7 seconds, which feels quicker in real-world traffic because of that immediate throttle response.

The 1-speed direct-drive transmission means there are no gear changes, no hesitation, and no mechanical complexity between you and the road. Power goes directly to the rear wheels, giving the i3 a rear-wheel-drive balance that BMW drivers have always appreciated. Whether you're navigating Santa Ana surface streets or merging onto the 5 or the 55 freeway, this drivetrain handles it with ease.

BMW i3 Features and Interior

A Cabin Unlike Any Other BMW

Step inside the i3 and you'll immediately notice how different it feels from a conventional car. BMW built the i3's interior with sustainability in mind — kenaf plant fiber door panels, eucalyptus wood trim, and recycled materials throughout give the cabin a premium, conscientious feel. The open-pore design and coach-style rear doors create a sense of space that defies the i3's compact exterior footprint.

The 2016 i3 features BMW's iDrive infotainment system with a crisp central display, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and smartphone integration. The driver gets a clean digital instrument cluster showing charge level, range, and energy flow in real time. Heated front seats, automatic climate control, and a panoramic glass roof (on most configurations) round out a surprisingly upscale ownership experience for a city-focused EV hatchback.

BMW i3 Reliability and Ownership

What Owners and Experts Say

The BMW i3 has earned a strong reputation for reliability, particularly when it comes to the electric drivetrain itself. Electric motors have far fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines, which translates to lower maintenance costs and fewer mechanical failures over time. Owners consistently report minimal issues beyond routine tire rotations and brake inspections — and even brake wear is reduced thanks to regenerative braking.

The REx system does add a layer of mechanical complexity compared to the pure BEV version, but it has proven dependable in real-world ownership when properly maintained. Battery degradation on the 2016 i3 is generally modest — most owners report retaining a strong majority of range even at higher mileage. With BMW's track record for build quality and the inherent durability advantages of an EV drivetrain, this i3 is a smart long-term ownership choice for buyers in Orange County's mild climate.

Why Buy From ALSBOU MOTORS - SANTA ANA in Santa Ana, CA

ALSBOU MOTORS - SANTA ANA has built a reputation in Santa Ana and throughout Orange County for offering quality pre-owned vehicles with straightforward, pressure-free sales experience. Located in Santa Ana, in the heart of Orange County, the dealership makes it easy for buyers across the region to find a vehicle they can trust at a price that makes sense. The team at ALSBOU MOTORS - SANTA ANA understands that buying a used EV comes with specific questions — about battery health, charging, and range — and they're ready to walk you through everything you need to know before you make a decision.

Financing a Used BMW i3 Near Santa Ana

Financing a used BMW i3 near Santa Ana, in Orange County, is more accessible than many buyers expect. ALSBOU MOTORS - SANTA ANA works with a range of lenders to help buyers across the credit spectrum get behind the wheel. Whether you have excellent credit, are rebuilding, or are buying a vehicle like this for the first time, the finance team can structure a payment plan that fits your budget. It's worth noting that California residents may also qualify for state and utility incentives for used EV purchases, which can further reduce the effective cost of ownership. Ask the team at ALSBOU MOTORS - SANTA ANA for details when you call or visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2016 BMW i3 a good buy?

Yes — the 2016 BMW i3 is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and well-built EVs of its generation. It offers premium BMW quality, a genuinely unique interior, and very low running costs. The Range Extender version adds flexibility that makes it practical even for drivers who occasionally exceed typical daily commute distances.

How many miles is too many for a used BMW i3?

The i3's electric drivetrain is inherently durable. Many i3 owners report strong battery health well past 80,000 to 100,000 miles. At 58,478 miles, this example is in a solid mid-life stage — broken in but far from worn out. Battery health is the key metric to ask about, and ALSBOU MOTORS - SANTA ANA can provide details on this vehicle's current range performance.

What is the difference between the BMW i3 BEV and the i3 REx?

The standard BMW i3 (BEV) runs purely on battery power. The i3 REx adds a small 650cc two-cylinder gasoline generator that extends range by recharging the battery when it runs low. The REx does not power the wheels — it simply buys you extra miles when you need them, making it ideal for drivers who occasionally need more range than a single charge provides.

What does it cost to charge a 2016 BMW i3?

Charging costs vary depending on local electricity rates, but in California, many drivers spend the equivalent of well under $2.00 per full charge at home on a standard Level 2 charger. Public DC fast charging is also available and can bring the i3 to 80% in roughly 30 minutes. Compared to gasoline costs, the savings are substantial over time.

Does the 2016 BMW i3 qualify for California EV incentives?

Used EV buyers in California may qualify for programs like the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP) or utility-specific incentives through providers like SCE or SoCal Gas. Eligibility depends on income and other factors. We recommend checking the CVRP website or speaking with the team at ALSBOU MOTORS - SANTA ANA for current program availability.

Serving Santa Ana and Surrounding Areas

ALSBOU MOTORS - SANTA ANA proudly serves drivers throughout Orange County and the surrounding region. Buyers regularly make the trip from nearby communities including Anaheim, Orange, Garden Grove, Tustin, Irvine, Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley, and Fullerton to shop the inventory. Whether you're coming in from the north end of the county or driving up from the south coast communities near Laguna Hills or Mission Viejo, Santa Ana is centrally located and easy to reach via the 5, 22, and 55 freeways.

Contact ALSBOU MOTORS - SANTA ANA Today

Ready to experience this 2016 BMW i3 Range Extender for yourself? Call ALSBOU MOTORS - SANTA ANA today at (714) 559-0520 to confirm availability, ask about battery health, and schedule a test drive. The team is ready to answer your questions, walk you through financing options, and make the buying process simple. Come visit us in Santa Ana, in Orange County, and see why buyers throughout the region trust ALSBOU MOTORS - SANTA ANA for their next vehicle purchase.