When we talk about BMW cars, the first impression that comes in our minds is a heavy car with ultra-luxurious features, inside and out. This is the kind of image that they have created with their long standing commitment towards everything luxury and premium in whatever they make. Nevertheless, with the introduction of the new BMW i8 hybrid, it gives a refreshing breather from the usual lineup with its distinctively sporty design. The i8 is designed as a remarkable plug-in hybrid that looks ready to drive at any second.
The BMW i8 was premiered at the Geneva International Motor Show 2017, which managed to create a lot of attention among the big wigs of the auto industry and change the mindset regarding plug-in hybrid sports cars.
Let’s review this amazing new BMW plug-in hybrid in terms of its dominating features including the exterior, interior design, engine specification and performance along with other features.
Exterior of the BMW i8
The new hybrid plug-in surely has a head turning exterior with its distinctively sporty design. The sweeping look to the BMW i8 is contributed to its short overhangs and long wheelbase.
With innovation and uniqueness, BMW is always one step ahead. They have introduced the i8 with a futuristic touch of scissor doors that gives an undeniable emotional sporty allure. It’s extremely aerodynamic design minimizes the drag significantly, majorly contributed to its rear wing that provides a solid downforce up to the speed of 155mph.
The whole body work of the i8 is focused on bringing an amazing performance and superior dynamics from this hybrid sports car. This is achieved through a half-and-half weight distribution through the use of the most lightweight materials to build it. The two part structure is made of aluminum and carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) as these materials are considered light weight yet extremely rigid other than its steel counterpart.
The BMW i8 also comes with a limited edition in terms of its exterior design. The Protonic Red exterior finish with Frozen Grey metallic accents adds an aggressive touch to the hybrid sports car.
The Interior of the new BMW Plug-in Hybrid
From the inside, the i8 is as sporty as it is designed from the outside, complete with the luxury a BMW vehicle comes with. It is a driver-centric layout with the dashboard and the center easily accessible for convenience and ease while driving. For even better handling, the steering wheel has a 3-spoke leather wrapped on it with a paddle shifter at the back for easy handling.
The i8 has the seating capacity for four passengers with the seats having 6-way power adjustments along with 3 stage heating system. These seats also come in different theme option including the Mega Carum Spice Grey leather upholstery with cloth highlight. To enhance the indoor comfort experience, there is the automatic 2-zone climate control. For chilly weathers, the Electric flow heater with auxiliary water heater keeps the insides warm.
There are three more optional interior packages for the i8, including Mega World, the Giga World and the Tera World.
Also read: BMW Unveils its 7 Series Special Editions, Solitaire and Master Class
Performance and Engine Specification of the BMW i8
The BMW i8 is the ultimate driving machine with its stunning aesthetics and powerful engine. Even though it’s a hybrid plug-in vehicle, BMW has not compromised on its performance that is at par with any other sports car.
It hosts a BMW TwinPower Turbo 3-cylinder engine that is capable of producing a whopping 228 horsepower and 236 lb-ft. of torque. The i8 has an All-Wheel-Drive system that is coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It comes with an innovative electric motor that gives power to the front wheels.
When it comes to performance specifications, it produces a total output of 357 horsepower 420 lb-ft of torque, and can reach 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds. This power is achieved when both the engine and the electric motor is used together.
The electric motor is powered by 7.1 kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack with advanced active thermal management system and it is mated with a 2-speed automatic transmission. This motor can be charged with J1772 compatible AC Charging (3.3 kW) that only takes only two and a half hours to fully charge the BMW i8.
With this sheer power, the engine is bound to heat up. To defuse the situation, the Efficient Dynamic Technology allows vents to open and close to offer cooling to the engine, as a result improve the vehicle’s overall aerodynamics.
Despite being a sports car, it is built to be eco-friendly as well. With an eDrive technology, the i8 gets up to 76 MPGe of fuel efficiency, which is a better count compared to other hybrid sports cars.
The BMW i8 comes with 4 driving modes; the standard Comfort Mode, the Sports Mode with ultra-intense boost function, the ECO Pro Mode that operates on a hybrid stance and the eDrive Mode that is an all-electric mode to maximize fuel efficiency.
Technological Features
Being a futuristic hybrid sports car, it is safe to say that the insides are laden with advanced technological features. These features are designed to give the driver and passengers that ultimate comfort and convenience the whole time they are riding this magnificent machine.
The center console features an 8.8 high-resolution screen, complete with 3-D maps, 20 GB storage for audio files, voice feedback and Voice command system. Driver can also access the BMW Navigation Professional System to get on the right track. Other than that, the screen can be synced with all your mobile devices for a personalized experience. For some in-cabin entertainment, there is a specialized surround sound system with 11 speakers. For the driver, there is a Full colour Head-Up Display that showcases all the relevant information the driver would want to know regarding the condition of the vehicle.
In order to give you a hand in your parking, the Park Distance Control System will let you park your car with easy in any type of space. Other technologies include Advanced Vehicle and Key Memory and a Comfort Access keyless entry with multi-function remote control.
Safety Features in the BMW i8
There are several safety features built in the BMW i8; some of the worth mentioning are as follows:
- Anti-theft Alarm System
- BMW Assist eCall and BMW Remote Services
- Stolen Vehicle Recovery
- Programmable LED Daytime Running Lights
- Anti-lock Braking System
- Active Driving Assistant
- Frontal Collision Warning
- Pedestrian Protection
Availability and Price of the 2017 BMW i8 Plug-In Hybrid
The 2017 BMW i8 Plug-In Hybrid is already available in the UAE region with a starting price of AED 635,000 that can go up to AED 800,000 with every added option.
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