BMW i3: The Environmentalists Dream Car

If you're currently looking for a car that's sporty and fun but also want to help save the planet, the all-new BMW i3 may be right for you. The first car launched from BMW's all electric "i" division started deliveries in the U.S. back in May and has already sold 3,300 units globally through March.

I had the privilege of test-driving the i3 as part of an event at South Bay BMW in Torrance, CA. The car may look safe and friendly, like a new incarnation of the EVI, but under the hood, it's an absolute beast to drive. I have ridden shotgun in Bimmers and Mini Coopers before, but it was the first time I had myself been behind the wheel of an ultimate driving machine. With 170 horsepower and 184 pound feet of torque, it's a zippy little car that makes you feel like you're back at the Cars Ride at Disney Adventures. Another cool thing about the car is how high up the seats are, so you can feel like you're in an SUV without having to worry about fitting it into a parking space.And with even the cheapest gas now set above $4 a gallon, the i3 gets a jaw-dropping 124 combined mpg, saving you over $9,000 over five years compared to other vehicles.

However, despite its outstanding performance and environmental friendliness, the i3 does have a few drawbacks. Like any BMW, the i3 is not a very intuitive car. The controls take some time figuring out, especially the navigation system. And despite saving you money at the pump, that saving comes at a significant cost. As you would expect from any BMW, the i3 is not cheap, with a base price of over $42,000. Federal tax credits can bring the price down to just below $35,000, which is still pretty expensive. Leasing the car isn't cheap either, with a 36-month lease set at $648 a month with $5,000 down. With that amount you can get a much roomier and more powerful BMW 5 series. And although the three-hour charge can give the i3 a range of 70-110 miles, you'll need a garage that makes it possible to plug in your car, so unless electric charging stations start springing  up soon, you're out of luck.

But if you do have a garage that makes it possible for you to charge electric vehicles and have the means, I would highly recommend the i3. Not only is it fun to drive, but you'll also be helping to save the planet at the same time.