Make no mistake – BMW mean business with their latest offering. One of the most intriguing cars on the road right now, the i8 brings BMW to the cutting edge of innovation. While technically speaking, the BMW i8 is currently flying solo in the world of plug-in hybrid sports cars – there’s competition from high performance gas-guzzling rivals like the Porsche 911 GT3 and Audi R8.
In today’s review, we’re taking a look at what makes the dynamic new BMW i8 so good – and we’ll even tell you how you can get your hands on one.
Original image by Jonathan
Design
The real beauty of the i8’s design is that it combines everything you would want from a sports car into one platform, including performance, style and economy – and boy, does this sexy machine deliver.
Efficiency is the name of this eco-friendly motor’s game and this is evident in the streamlined structure and aerodynamics of the car. From the reinforced plastics, resulting in lightweight construction, to the electric motor and low emissions – this ride really excels when it comes to design innovation.
Don’t be fooled by its high tech construction though, it’s sweeping lines and dramatic styling mean the new BMW i8 is guaranteed to turn heads. The range of colours only adds to the sophistication of the sporty exterior – available in Iconic Silver, Crystal White, Sophisto Grey and Protonic Blue, even their names sound sexy! Whichever colour you opt for, the BMW i8 can’t fail to look suave.
Performance & Handling
There is no doubt that efficiency is at the top of the list of qualities exhibited by the i8. The eco-friendly eDrive mode allows the car to run on electric power alone, at an impressive maximum speed of 75mph. And don’t let the three-cylinder engine fool you. In Sports mode, the i8 will zip from 0-62 mph in a mind-blowing 4.4 secs – slightly faster than the Porsche 911. Crank it up to fifth gear and the i8 will zoom from 50-70 mph in a 3.3 sec flash – making a mockery of the 911.
Given its incredibly low CO2 emissions, the i8 is exempt from road tax – resulting in a saving in running costs. Cash conscious drivers will also be happy to hear that the i8 boasts phenomenal figures when it comes to fuel economy, with BMW claiming 134.5 mpg on average.
BMW i8 Specs:
- Weight: 3455 lbs
- Power: 357 bhp
- Acceleration: 0-62 mph in 4.4 secs
- Top Speed: 155 mph (limited)
- Fuel Economy: 134.5mpg (combined)
Features
Original image by Kārlis Dambrāns
Inside and out, the i8 screams eco-friendly – and the recyclable materials in the cabin mirror the hybrid’s sporty exterior. Another classy touch from BMW is the i8’s scissor style doors, opening upwards – a signature style previously associated with Lamborghinis. While these look great, they can be a little problematic in tight parking spaces.
Standard equipment on the i8 is generous – as you’d expect with BMW. The entry level model comes with features like adaptive cruise control, heated seats, parking sensors, an 8.8 inch media system and even a fighter jet style heads-up display!
Interior space, however, is an issue – with the rear seats only being suitable for children. This lack of space continues in the boot, where you’d struggle to fit a standard size suitcase. However, BMW have teamed up with Louis Vuitton to come up with some luxurious bespoke luggage that fits perfectly into the i8’s boot – optimising space.
Despite a couple of minor flaws, the BMW i8 still remains a truly spectacular car, receiving rave reviews all around – any car enthusiast would be proud to have an i8 on their driveway.
BMW i8 Finance
Original image by Kārlis Dambrāns
Speeding in at £99,845, the BMW i8 price is more than a little loose change! But this mighty motor is the stuff of dreams and we can see why you would want in on the action. If you’re looking for some time in the limelight but don’t have the celebrity bank balance to fund your sexy sports car, Car Loan Warehouse can help.
We offer flexible lending to suit your budget, with payments that you can afford. To find out more about our BMW i8 finance, apply online – or alternatively use our car loan calculator for a quick quote today.
