The BMW i3 offers an excellent driving experience. With its all-electric powertrain, the four-door hatchback zips smoothly around town. Still, that might not be enough for owners wanting to bring the best out of the car. Aftermarket BMW i3 performance upgrades can do wonders in enhancing car performance, but are these car modifications
worth it? Jerry
discusses some of these BMW i3 custom parts and whether they can improve the car—or whether you’re better off considering another brand. Engine performance and transmission upgrades for the 2021 BMW i3
The BMW i3's motor pairs with a one-speed direct-drive transmission system that feeds power to the rear wheels. You can take the transmission performance to the next level with a new automatic transmission shifter assembly for about $230. The kit has an impact- and wear-resistant aluminum shifter stick for enhanced durability. Besides, aftermarket gear shifters are designed for maximum functionality, providing effortless gear shifting.
While the i3 comes with an all-electric powertrain, you can get a gas extension for each motor. Upgrade your internal combustion i3 by installing custom oil filters for $9-$14. Whether you choose a Wix, Mahle, or FRAM oil filter, you’ll get a quality filter that will effectively remove contaminants from your engine, thus improving its performance and durability.
You can purchase an I-Beam Con-Rod by Manley for $360 to enhance the transfer combustion pressure to the crankshaft, giving you more consistent engine performance. Mount a crankshaft pulley from Peterson Fluid Systems to further boost the performance. Costing $50, the part (available in Gilmer and HTD tooth profiles) is finished in an anodized hard coat for durability and smooth, positive drive.
BMW i3 performance upgrades for the brakes and exhaust systems
The 2021 BMW i3 delivers an impressive 170 hp, but you can increase the vehicle's braking performance by installing a Power Stop Evolution Sport drilled and slotted brake kit. Priced at $168-$388, the kit comes with ceramic brake pads with reduced fade and cross-drilled rotors to alleviate dust build-up. These brake upgrades enhance the i3's street performance and stopping power.
For $17, you can invest in a Wilwood pedal pad. As noted on CARiD
, the brake pads are built using military-grade aluminum for extended longevity and are precision-engineered for proper vehicle fitment. To add muscle to the i3's stopping power, throw in iron 1-piston large-bore brake calipers from Helix. Their sturdy, low-maintenance steel construction offers high-performance braking power and reliability for the street. If you're concerned about your BMW i3's exhaust sound, you can replace the OEM muffler with a Cherry Bomb performance exhaust muffler for $27. The muffler takes your exhaust sound from mild to a head-turning, aggressive growl. But for a deep, mellow roar, mount a stainless steel oval bi-direction muffler from MagnaFlow and rev up the engine's power and enhance the car's breathing.
MORE: 0-60 in What? BMW's Fastest Cars
Are BMW i3 performance upgrades worth it, or should you get a different car?
The i3 reinvented how BMW engineered its cars. The car doesn't look like your typical BMW model, and it drives differently, coming with carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic and thermoplastic body panels on an aluminum frame. Its 155-mile range makes it a worthy rival of most renowned EV models, such as the Tesla Model 3, Chevy Bolt EV, and Hyundai Kona SUV.
While the above-mentioned competitors boast over 200 horsepower output and over 200 miles of range, the i3 delivers 170 hp. It doesn't offer much value, though, considering it has an MSRP of $45,445, and other models in the same class—such as the Bolt EV and Kona—have better performance and cost about $35,000.
Upgrading the BMW i3 may enhance the driving experience, handling, and performance, but it still falls short in the EV range. The price discrepancy is also a matter of debate. Instead of splurging additional cash on upgrades, investing in a different vehicle might be best.
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