In 2014, BMW unveiled its all-new hybrid sports car dubbed the BMW i8. In 2018, BMW added another trim - the i8 Roadster - to the existing Coupe variant. However, in 2020, BMW decided to halt the production of the i8.
The i8 was built to be a show-stopper, and its striking features only serve to reinforce that claim. Available as a convertible Roadster or a hardtop Coupe for the 2020 model year, the i8 became the highest-selling plug-in electric sports car that year, with over 20,000 models sold globally by May 2020. While many feel that the i8 never achieved its full potential, here is what we love about BMW's already-iconic plug-in sports car.
8 Upscale Interior
Of course, in line with BMW's reputation, the interior of the i8 had to be luxurious. The BMW i8 has nicely padded seats for comfort, the center console completely divides the front row, and the cabin is riddled with carbon fiber trimmings.
Every trim of the i8 has standard features such as a Harman Kardon sound system, heated front seats, head-up display, and leather upholstery. If you choose to get the higher trim, you will get ceramic controls, blue seatbelts, black brake calipers, and an exclusive brown interior.
7 Powertrain
The BMW i8 is originally a plug-in hybrid, and there are no plans to change that. BMW says there would be only one power train. The petrol engine and two electric motors work together to produce a respectable 369 hp.
Among all model years, the 2019 i8 was the fastest, as it moves from rest to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. In addition to the speed, handling is smooth, and the roadster feels light.
6 Scissor Doors
Nothing screams 2-door luxury sports car more than scissor doors. Every BMW i8 model has them, and it is one of the i8's coolest features.
However, this door style has more purpose than just improving a car's appearance. They make getting in and out of the wide sports car easier when in cramped parking lots and prevent damaging other cars with the doors when opening them.
5 Driver Assistance
Safety is essential, and of course, BMW knows that. The BMW i8 has the standard BMW Connected Drive driver's assistance system. There are also camera systems, collision warning, pedestrian braking features, heating, and air conditioning system to protect the battery pack from varying temperatures, and more.
The BMW i8 also has features that help drivers monitor their battery charging from their phones and notify them when there's a need for servicing. In a situation where your BMW i8 is broken or receiving service, BMW provides mobility assistance.
4 Warranty
The BMW i8 has a warranty package that is similar to most luxury cars in the market. With a limited warranty that runs for 50,000 miles or four years, and eight years or 100,000 miles hybrid components warranty, this looks like what you can get from any automaker.
However, what distinguishes the i8 is its 36,000 miles or three years of complimentary scheduled maintenance. Also on offer is the powertrain warranty that covers 50,000 miles or four years.
3 Infotainment And Connectivity
All BMW i8 cars come with an 8.8-inch touchscreen. The touch screen has standard features like integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system can be controlled with buttons on the console. This media system works with the head-up display to transmit information to the driver.
Unlike other cars in the BMW i8's class, the touchscreen isn't adequately incorporated in the dashboard and looks like someone just got a touchscreen and placed it on top of the dashboard.
2 Fuel Economy
If you’re looking for a sports car with great fuel efficiency, then the BMW i8 is an excellent choice. The BMW i8 Roadster has 35 MPGe and can run for 22 miles on electric power alone.
On the other hand, the 2020 all-wheel-drive Coupe is endowed with a 1.5 liter 3-cylinder turbo gas/electric hybrid powertrain that is EPA rated at 27 miles per gallon for both city and highway (combined).
1 Soundproof Rides
BMW i8's convertible top allows the driver to enjoy the outdoors while driving, but if the driver decides to close the rooftop, they're properly enclosed. Since the BMW i8 is built with quality materials, the interior is soundproofed from the outside.
While driving the i8, you're in your world with no disruptions from outside. This feature reinforces privacy, reduces cabin noise, improves the internal audio system, and is especially helpful because of the BMW i8's fake engine noise.