2019 BMW i8 review
BMW i8 highlights
Customer rating
(not yet rated)
RepairPal reliability rating
(data not available)
Pros
- Futuristic design
- Unusual powertrain
- 18 miles of electric-only range
Cons
- Difficult to get in and out
- Performance lags behind the competition
Mileage (EPA estimate)
(data not available)
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
The 2019 BMW i8 is an advanced plug-in hybrid high-performance sports car.
When the BMW i8 was introduced in 2014, it was one of the most futuristic-looking vehicles available. And even years later, it still looks more advanced than almost any other vehicle on the road. Initially available as a two-door coupe with unique scissor-style doors, the i8 adds a convertible version for the 2019 model year. While the rear seat is almost unusable in the coupe, it has been completely removed with the convertible. Other updates for 2019 include added power as well as more electric-only driving range. Available as a coupe or convertible, the BMW i8 is powered by a unique plug-in hybrid powertrain. It features a 228-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine driving the rear wheels, teamed with an electric motor sending 141 horsepower to the front wheels for a total of 369 horsepower. With a full charge, the i8 can travel up to 18 miles, according to the EPA. Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Actual mileage will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info. With its unusual powertrain and exceptional styling, the i8 has few competitors, but similar models include the Acura NSX and Polestar 1.
All BMW i8 years
2019 BMW i8 trims
Coupe:
- 1.5L
- Rear Defroster
- Automated Cruise Control
- Leather Seats
- Power Seats
- Front Seat Heaters
- Power Mirrors
- Traction Control
- Side Airbags
Roadster:
- Includes all features available on the Coupe
- Soft Top
Giga World:
- Includes all features available on the Roadster
- Memory Seats
- Auxiliary Audio Input
BMW i8 photos
5 reasons to buy the 2019 BMW i8
What We Like
Interior: Once inside, the i8’s front seats are both stylish and comfortable, with good support. The digital driver's display is easy to read, and overall controls are kept simple and familiar to anyone who has been in a BMW before. The driver position is excellent, with surprisingly good visibility for such a sleek sports car.
Storage: The i8's trunk is not large, but it can fit 4.7 cubic feet of groceries below the rear hatchback. This may not seem like much, but it's more than most exotic supercars offer. Since the rear seats are not very useful for people, they make an excellent shelf for additional cabin storage.
Performance: Despite modest horsepower on paper compared to other high-performance competitors, the i8 still feels fast. In Sport mode, with the full power of the gas and electric motors, the i8 will sprint to 60 in just over 4 seconds. Steering is light yet responsive, and with all-wheel drive, the i8 delivers excellent driving characteristics when enjoyed on a twisty road.
What Needs Improvement
Technology: It may have a futuristic look and drivetrain, but the i8's technology is lacking. Android Auto™ is not available, and Apple CarPlay® requires a subscription. The i8 also lacks many common advanced driver-assist systems like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assistance.
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
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BMW i8 features and specs
Giga World 2WD 2D Convertible
Standard Features
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- 4WD/AWD
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- Automated Cruise Control
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bluetooth Technology
- Front Seat Heaters
- Harman Kardon Sound
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leather Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Navigation System
- Overhead Airbags
- Parking Sensors
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Traction Control
- Turbo Charged Engine
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Cloth Seats
- Leatherette & Cloth
Drive Wheels
2WD
Engine size
1.5L
Engine type
Turbo Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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