Should You Buy a BMW i8? (Test Drive & Review)

Summary

In this engaging review, the BMW i8 is explored as a futuristic, attention-grabbing hybrid sports car. With its sleek design and unique features, the i8 combines a 1.5L three-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a total of 360 horsepower, offering efficient fuel economy and impressive acceleration. Despite its supercar looks, it’s easy to drive, though its high door sills and limited storage are notable drawbacks. Overall, the i8 delivers a unique driving experience with reasonable running costs, making it an intriguing option for those seeking a stylish and practical performance car at a reduced second-hand price.

Takeaways

• 😀 The BMW i8 has a futuristic design that still turns heads, even though it was released in 2014.
• 😀 Despite looking like a supercar, the BMW i8 is powered by a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine from a Mini Cooper, combined with an electric motor for a total of 360 horsepower.
• 😀 The BMW i8 offers 0-62 mph in 4.4 seconds, making it quick, but not intimidating like traditional supercars.
• 😀 With 30 miles of pure electric range, the i8 is practical for daily commuting, with a potential drop to 20 miles in winter conditions.
• 😀 The i8 feels like a 'sensible supercar,' offering supercar looks and performance with lower running costs and ease of driving.
• 😀 The car's cabin is well-finished with high-quality materials, a six-speed automatic transmission, and a comfortable and user-friendly interior.
• 😀 The i8's dramatic gullwing doors and futuristic styling make it a head-turner, but it comes with a few practical drawbacks, like tight interior storage and small boot space.
• 😀 Despite some common critiques, such as awkward entry due to high sills and the artificial noise from the engine, the i8 is surprisingly easy and fun to drive in everyday conditions.
• 😀 The BMW i8's appeal lies in its combination of ordinary car ease with extraordinary supercar features, making it a good option for weekend driving or road trips.
• 😀 At a used price of around £40,000, the i8 offers excellent value for money, making it a great choice compared to its original £100,000 price tag.

Q & A

What is the BMW i8, and why is it notable?

The BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid sports car that combines futuristic design with eco-friendly technology. It was first released in 2014 and remains notable for its striking appearance and the innovative use of a mini engine paired with an electric motor.

What engine is used in the BMW i8?

The BMW i8 uses a 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine sourced from a Mini Cooper. This engine is tuned to provide 230 brake horsepower, driving the rear wheels.

How much horsepower does the BMW i8 produce in total?

The BMW i8 generates a combined 360 horsepower, with 230 horsepower coming from the petrol engine and 130 horsepower from the electric motor driving the front wheels.

What is the BMW i8's acceleration and range on electric power?

The BMW i8 can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 4.4 seconds. When fully charged, it can travel up to 30 miles on electric power alone, which is sufficient for most commutes.

What makes the BMW i8 a 'sensible' supercar despite its appearance?

Despite its supercar looks, the BMW i8 is relatively easy to drive and does not have the intimidating traits typical of traditional supercars. It's comfortable, practical for daily use, and economical with its fuel efficiency and road tax benefits.

Why do some people criticize the BMW i8's design, and are these critiques valid?

Critics have pointed out issues like the high sill, the impracticality of the Goldwing doors, and the artificial noise generated in sport mode. While these critiques are valid, they don't detract from the overall enjoyable driving experience for most people in real-world conditions.

How practical is the BMW i8 for daily use?

The BMW i8 is quite practical for everyday driving, with comfortable seats, modern features like Sat Nav, and good fuel efficiency. However, it does have some limitations, such as limited storage space and small boot capacity.

What are the BMW i8's major drawbacks?

Some notable drawbacks of the BMW i8 include limited interior storage, small boot space, and occasionally noisy engine sounds from the 3-cylinder motor. Additionally, the ride can be firm, and getting in and out of the car may be difficult for some people.

What is the BMW i8's performance like on the road?

On the road, the BMW i8 is quick, providing impressive straight-line speed without being intimidating. It handles well and offers excellent grip, but its steering is considered light and a bit artificial, which makes it easy to maneuver and park.

Is the BMW i8 a good value for money on the used car market?

Yes, the BMW i8 offers great value as a used car, with prices around £40,000. While it may not have been worth its original £100,000 price tag, it becomes an appealing option on the used market, especially with its unique design, hybrid powertrain, and low running costs.