BMW i8 2016 Review

The BMW i8 2016 is a plug-in hybrid sports car that was produced by the German automaker BMW. It features a distinctive and futuristic design, with aerodynamic elements to enhance efficiency. This car is part of the first generation of i8 models, which were introduced for the 2014 model year. It has a futuristic and aerodynamic design, with dihedral doors and a lightweight carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) body.

This car combines many unique attributes, like, sports car, coupé or roadster, pioneer, brand-shaper, innovator, and future-oriented design.  The combined power output of the electric motor and gasoline engine results in impressive performance. It has multiple driving modes, including an electric-only mode for short distances. The plug-in hybrid system allows the car to achieve good fuel efficiency when driven in hybrid mode, and it can also operate as an electric vehicle for short distances.

Special features of BMW i8 2016

This car is a plug-in hybrid sports car that combines a powerful gasoline engine with an electric motor. Its special features and technologies are – Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain, Electric-Only Driving, Carbon Fiber Construction, ConnectedDrive Technology, eDrive Modes, Harman Kardon Premium Sound System etc.

This car offers different driving modes, including Comfort, Eco Pro, and eDrive. These modes allow the driver to customize the driving experience based on performance and efficiency preferences.

This car utilizes regenerative braking technology, which captures and converts energy during braking or coasting into electric power, replenishing the battery. The electric motor drives the front wheels, while the gasoline engine powers the rear wheels, providing all-wheel drive capability.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of this car is not only stylish but also functional, with aerodynamic elements to enhance efficiency. It has a futuristic and aerodynamic design, with distinctive scissor doors that add to its sporty and unique appearance. Carbon Fiber Construction features a lightweight carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) construction, contributing to its performance and efficiency.

The BMW i8 2016 model maintains the distinctive and sleek appearance that sets the i8 apart from traditional sports cars. The i8 has a low, wide, and aerodynamic silhouette that contributes to its high-performance capabilities and efficient aerodynamics. The car’s shape is not only visually striking but also functional in reducing drag.

One of the most eye-catching features of this car is its upward-opening scissor doors. This design element adds a touch of drama and reinforces the car’s futuristic and high-tech image. To highlight its plug-in hybrid nature, the i8 incorporates blue accents throughout its exterior design.

This car is equipped with advanced LED lighting technology, including sleek and angular LED headlights that contribute to its modern aesthetic. It incorporates various aerodynamic features, such as air curtains, to manage airflow around the car efficiently. It typically comes with 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels, contributing to the car’s sporty and aggressive stance. The exterior is adorned with sculpted lines and contours that not only add to the visual appeal but also contribute to the car’s aerodynamic efficiency.

Interior Design

The i8’s interior reflects a blend of modern aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. It is designed to match its futuristic exterior, with a driver-focused cockpit and modern features. The dashboard, center console, and door panels feature sleek lines and a minimalistic approach. It features a fully digital instrument cluster that provides the driver with essential information. This digital display can be customized to show various driving metrics and navigation details. Ambient lighting is used strategically throughout the interior to create a visually appealing atmosphere.

High-quality materials are used throughout the cabin to enhance the sense of luxury. Premium leather upholstery and carbon fiber accents contribute to the overall upscale feel. The i8 is a 2+2 seater, meaning it has two front seats and two smaller rear seats. While the rear seats are not as spacious as the front ones, they do provide some additional seating capacity. It incorporates touch-sensitive controls on the center console for climate control and other functions. These controls add a modern touch to the interior and contribute to the overall high-tech ambiance.

Engine performance

This car is a plug-in hybrid, featuring a 1.5-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine combined with an electric motor. The gasoline engine powers the rear wheels, while the electric motor drives the front wheels, providing an all-wheel-drive experience. The electric motor is positioned at the front axle, providing electric-only driving capabilities for short distances.

The combination of the gasoline engine and electric motor delivers a total power output of around 357 horsepower. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just around 4 seconds, showcasing its sports car performance. It can be driven in full electric mode for short distances, in this mode this car is capable of traveling at moderate speeds without using the gasoline engine. It features a 6-speed automatic transmission for the gasoline engine and a 2-speed automatic transmission for the electric motor.  The top speed of the BMW i8 is electronically limited to approx. 155 mph. You can get maximum driving distance is around approx. 330 miles. The EPA has given the i8 an MPGe rating of 76. The EPA has evaluated the electric range at 15 miles.

Ride Quality

When it comes to ride quality, the BMW i8 2016 generally provides a comfortable and smooth ride, especially considering its sports car nature. It is equipped with a sophisticated adaptive suspension system that aims to balance sporty handling with comfort. It offers different driving modes, including Comfort, Eco Pro, and Sport. In Comfort mode, the suspension is tuned for a more comfortable ride, while Sport mode prioritizes performance and may result in a firmer ride.

The interior of this car is designed to be well-insulated from road and wind noise, contributing to a more serene driving experience. It features large wheels and low-profile tires, so road conditions can affect the perceived ride comfort.

Technology

BMW’s ConnectedDrive system is integrated, providing features such as navigation, real-time traffic information, and smartphone connectivity. It includes advanced infotainment and navigation systems typical of BMW’s luxury vehicles. Its iDrive infotainment system is integrated into the center console, offering a user-friendly interface for controlling various functions, including navigation, audio, and vehicle settings.

Safety

This car comes standard with antilock brakes, traction and stability control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. Also standard are BMW Assist emergency communications (includes automatic crash notification, stolen-vehicle recovery and on-demand roadside assistance) as well as parking sensors and an around-view camera system. The power seats offer good support and long-distance comfort, and even taller drivers will have headroom to spare. The center stack is canted toward the driver, putting everything close at hand.

Conclusion

The BMW i8 is a vehicle that allows you to experience the technology of future vehicles right now. It features a lightweight construction, precise steering, and a low center of gravity, contributing to a sporty and dynamic driving experience. The most critical factor is safety, regardless of how comfortable a car is. This car has mandatory safety features and technology such as anti lock brakes, traction control, emergency communications, parking sensors etc. You have no cause to be concerned about security.