BMW i3s Starts Looking Like A Proper Electric Hot Hatch Thanks To AC Schnitzer

BMW said that the i3s was the first electric hot hatch back when it launched the model in 2017, but the truth is the exterior design of this go-faster variant didn’t quite ooze sportiness.

Let’s face it, one needs a well-trained eye to spot the differences between the regular i3 and the i3s. One way to solve this problem is to go for an aftermarket kit and the latest one from AC Schnitzer seems to give the i3s the pizzazz it needed to stand out from lesser i3 models.

The tuning program for the BMW i3s is also available for the regular i3 and starts with a suspension spring kit that brings the car up to 20 mm (0.78 inches) closer to the ground. This also lowers the center of gravity, helping the i3 negotiate turns with more confidence.

For the BMW i3s alone, AC Schnitzer also offers wheel spacers that push the wheels 12 mm (0.47 inches) further out on each side. As a result, lateral support and driving stability are said to improve. At the same time, the spacers make the i3s look more muscular — the tires remain as skinny as before, though.

Also contributing to the more athletic appearance is the aero kit which includes a front splitter and a roof spoiler which are said to improve downforce. Both parts can be installed directly and without further painting.

The splitter is made of a high-quality ASA material (acrylonitrile styrene acrylic ester) with a matte black surface and three gloss black adaptors made of polyurethane. As for the rear spoiler, it’s made of the same material and has the same gloss black finish. The exterior package also includes rear skirt protection foil for the boot sill and AC Schnitzer lettering on the sides.

Also read: BMW Drops Range Extender Option As i3 Gains Bigger Battery

Inside, the tuner only opted for a few aluminum highlights, including the pedals and “Black Line” cover for the iDrive controller.