The all-new BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid sports car that’s designed for both performance and efficiency. It features an electric drivetrain that provides up to 22 miles of all-electric range as well as a turbocharged three-cylinder gas engine that works with the electric motor to accelerate the i8 from zero to 62 mph in 4.4 seconds, according to BMW. All-wheel drive is standard and total system output is 362 horsepower and 420 pounds-feet of torque.
Like the new BMW i3 city car, the i8 features a carbon fiber reinforced plastic body atop an aluminum chassis for the drivetrain. The car’s 2+2 arrangement provides seating for four but the rear seats are very small.
The i8 is scheduled to hit dealerships in spring 2014 with a starting price of $135,700 plus destination charge.
Exterior Highlights
Futuristic styling
Swing-wing doors
LED headlights
20-inch light-alloy wheels
0.26 drag coefficient
Interior Highlights
Leather sport seats
Digital instrument panel
iDrive control system
Navigation system
Available head-up display
Under the Hood
Electric motor makes 131 hp and 184 pounds-feet of torque
Electric motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack and drives the front wheels
231-hp, turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder gas engine makes 236 pounds-feet of torque
Rear-mounted gas engine drives the rear wheels using a six-speed automatic transmission
Double-wishbone front suspension and five-link rear suspension
Adaptive suspension system
Safety Features
Antilock brakes
Electronic stability system
Side-impact airbags for the front seats
Side curtain airbags
Available backup camera, surround view
Available collision warning with pedestrian recognition and braking function
