BMW I8 Coupé

The BMW i8 Coupé  is the most exclusive model in the current range of the German firm. This hybrid sports car has been on the market since 2014 and it is a 2 + 2-seater – very questionable rear ones – in which some of the latest and best innovations from the Bavarians come together. Its high price and market placement elevate it to a position of exclusivity.

Now, on the occasion of the presentation of the Spyder version at the Los Angeles Auto Show 2017, the German brand has taken the opportunity to introduce  some improvements that affect the propellant, the technology on board and even the price, something more expensive.

A design brought from the future

On the exterior of the i8 , its scissor doors and floating-look panels stand out, as well as its long wheelbase –2,800 mm– accompanied by short overhangs. This helps to create a sense of poise which, together with its width and low height (1.30 meters), give the car a menacing look.

This effect is intensified due to its sharp front, equipped with Full LED headlights and with the option of equipping laser headlights ; the taillights also have this technology.

Most of the body panels are made of carbon fiber, the same material as the monocoque chassis. This is so with the intention of minimizing the weight of the set, which due to its hybrid status is higher than would be appropriate in a high-caliber sports car.

As for the cabin, it presents a purely BMW design, with the common family air: the center console focused on the driver and the iDrive in the center. Sports seats and a curvy dashboard lend a high degree of dynamism to an interior that features elements made from recycled materials. In addition, upon entering it is possible to see part of the carbon fiber that makes up the i8’s monocoque chassis.

With the slight update suffered at the end of this 2017, the multimedia system is at the latest in connectivity, while some driving assistants previously absent in the catalog have been added. However, BMW still keeps silent about all the improvements made.

Hybrid powertrain and all-wheel drive for the i8

The main novelty of the new BMW i8 has been its updated hybrid powertrain. While the 1.5 TwinPower Turbo combustion engine maintains intact the 231cv and 320 Nm of torque it delivered, the electric motor increases its power to 105 kW. Translated into horsepower, it represents an increase of 12 CV, which together add up to a total of 374 CV  (previously 362 CV).

Thanks to improvements in the electrical system, 100% electric autonomy has been increased from 37 to 55 kilometers. Similarly, all-wheel drive is maintained with the combustion engine assisting the rear axle and the electric one assisting the front.

As for the performance and efficiency of the new model there is no data yet. However, it is expected that the 4.4 seconds needed so far to cover the 0-100 km / h will be improved, and that the consumption of 2.1 l / 100 km will also be lowered by a tenth.

BMW i8 data

• 2 doors.
• 2 + 2 places.
• All-wheel drive.
• 231 hp three-cylinder turbo engine / 105 kW electric motor; between the two add up to 374 CV.
• Consumption and emissions: 2.1 l / 100km and 49g / km CO2.
• Trunk: 154 liters.
• Price: from € 145,200 (without aid).