Mitsubishi I-MiEV Review: 130-Mile Test And Real-World Range

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV stands as one of the first mass-produced electric vehicles designed for everyday roads, introducing drivers to silent propulsion and zero-emission motoring back in the late 2000s. This compact five-door hatchback, powered by a 16 kWh lithium-ion battery and rear-wheel-drive electric motor, promised affordable green transport for city dwellers. In our extended evaluation, we delve into its capabilities beyond short urban hops, focusing on reliability, efficiency, and real-world adventures like a demanding 130-mile round trip from London to Silverstone.

Design and Urban Agility

With its bubble-like shape and diminutive footprint, the i-MiEV measures just over three meters in length, making it ideal for tight parking spots and congested streets. The lightweight construction—around 1,100 kg—enhances its nimble handling, allowing quick maneuvers in traffic. Inside, the cabin accommodates four adults comfortably, though taller passengers may find headroom limited due to the rounded roofline. The dashboard features a straightforward layout with a central speedometer and basic climate controls, prioritizing function over flair.

Boot capacity registers at 227 liters, sufficient for grocery runs or weekend bags but not family holidays. Folding rear seats expand this to over 1,000 liters, offering versatility for occasional larger loads. Materials feel durable for the era, with hard plastics that withstand daily wear without creaking.

Powertrain Performance and Acceleration

The single electric motor delivers 66 horsepower and instant torque, propelling the i-MiEV from 0-30 mph in brisk fashion—perfect for town overtakes. Official 0-62 mph stands at 13 seconds, with acceleration tapering at higher speeds due to the fixed-ratio transmission. Top speed caps at 81 mph, adequate for motorways but not spirited drives.

Regenerative braking recaptures energy during deceleration, extending range and reducing brake wear. In city testing, this system proves smooth, mimicking engine braking in conventional cars. Highway runs reveal the motor’s limits, where wind resistance demands more battery power.

Battery Range: Official vs. Reality

Mitsubishi quoted 93 miles on the NEDC cycle, but EPA figures for the U.S. model peg city range at 98 miles under ideal conditions, dropping to 62 miles combined. Real-world factors like speed, temperature, and load slash this further—expect 60 miles in mixed driving. Our test confirmed this: aggressive acceleration and A-roads halved anticipated distance.

Australian estimates reached 96 miles, but hilly terrain or cold weather could reduce this by 20-30%.

Charging Experience: Home and Public

A full overnight AC charge from a domestic socket costs about £2 (at 2010s rates), equating to pennies per mile—far below petrol equivalents. Level 2 chargers cut times to four hours. The i-MiEV supports CHAdeMO DC fast charging, a rarity then, enabling 80% top-ups in 30 minutes at compatible stations.

Our Silverstone trip highlighted planning needs: starting at 100%, we arrived with 20% after 65 miles, recharging en route. Public infrastructure was sparse, demanding apps and maps for stations. Home charging remains its forte, ideal for overnight top-ups.

The 130-Mile Silverstone Challenge

Embarking from London with a full battery, the outbound leg to Silverstone Circuit consumed 80% range over 65 miles. Motorway speeds above 60 mph accelerated drain, while A-roads proved more efficient. At the track, a quick DC session restored charge, but return journey mirrored outbound depletion.

• Outbound: 65 miles, 80% battery used; average 50 mph.
• Charging stop: 30 minutes DC, reached 90%.
• Return: Similar consumption, arrived home with 10%.
• Total time: 5 hours including charge; viable with planning.

This trip underscored the i-MiEV’s urban focus—longer jaunts require discipline and infrastructure.

Running Costs and Efficiency

Electricity efficiency hits 112 MPGe combined per EPA, with city figures at 126 MPGe. Annual costs for 10,000 miles hover under £200 for charging, excluding tax incentives. Maintenance skips oil changes and exhausts; regenerative braking extends pad life. Tires and batteries represent main expenses.

No major drivetrain issues reported in early years, though battery degradation looms after a decade. Forums note cell balancing needs for optimal capacity.

Safety Features and Ratings

Equipped with six airbags, ABS, and stability control, the i-MiEV earned four Euro NCAP stars—solid but shy of five due to side impact scores. Low center of gravity from battery placement aids stability. Modern standards demand more, but it met 2010s criteria.

Long-Term Reliability Insights

After years on roads, the electric powertrain proves robust, with few failures. Battery packs endure 100,000+ miles before 20% capacity loss, per owner reports. High-voltage components require certified service, but simplicity cuts visits. Spares availability wanes, challenging used buyers.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Who Should Consider the i-MiEV Today?

Budget-conscious commuters with home charging excel here. Families or highway warriors need modern alternatives. As a used buy, prices dip below £5,000, offering EV entry without depreciation hits. It paved the way for today’s EVs.

FAQ

How far can the i-MiEV really go on a charge?

Expect 50-70 miles in mixed conditions, less on highways.

Is fast charging available?

Yes, via CHAdeMO for 30-minute 80% charges.

What’s the cost to run?

About £2 per full charge, or 3-5p per mile.

Are batteries still reliable?

Many last over 100,000 miles; monitor via OBD.

Suitable for long trips?

Possible with planning, as our 130-mile test showed.

Legacy of the i-MiEV

This pioneer normalized EVs, influencing rebadged siblings like Peugeot iOn and Citroën C-Zero. Its efficiency topped EPA lists in 2011, proving electrics viable. Today, it serves as a thrifty classic for enthusiasts.