BMW i8 owner's review after 5k miles
Discussion
As I'm now 5k miles into my i8 ownership I thought I'd share my thoughts with you.
First, a little background, I'm probably not what you would expect of an i8 owner - in that I'm a huge fan of noisy v8s, enjoy driving sideways in my M3 rally car and generally prefer old school cars...
After four happy years I was finally looking to replace my C63 AMG coupe everyday car. Previous daily drivers have included a Vantage, several XKRs, an M3 and even an SLK55. The i8 was not an obvious choice...particularly as I'm a technophobe! In fact I'm such a numptie I don't even know how to post a photo from my iPad on here
If someone more talented can post a picture of a Protonic Dark Silver i8 with white interior and carbon trim, that's what mine looks like...
So, what's the i8 like? In a word, brilliant! Before I get onto why, I'll list the few things that I find less appealing. In no particular order - the battery only range is realistically only 18 miles in my experience, the windscreen pillars and wing mirrors combined can give a large blind spot at some junctions and I find it very hard to reverse unless using the camera. On occasion I also wish it had a drift mode... with extreme provocation it can take up some attitude on the road, but in my experience it is more smudging the rear tyres across the road rather than a proper, satisfying drift. And finally, whilst the doors are part of the car's appeal, ingress and egress can sometimes be a bit of a faff...
So, what do I like? This is a longer list...
The driving experience is unique and quite different to anything I've driven before. The car is the best dual purpose car I've owned, extremely comfortable and quiet one minute and with a quick flick into sports mode a surprisingly fast and entertaining one. The three cylinder engine even sounds good, even if the noise is enhanced, with little pops on downshifts and an entertaining roar to the redline.
The handling is almost surreal, with its lightweight carbon construction and very low center of gravity thanks to the low slung batteries down the car's spine. It is incredible how much grip it generates on such narrow tyres and I much prefer the feel of both the steering wheel and handling balance to the standard M4 and M3 I've driven. To my mind the car feels more in tune with the road, flows better and is less heavy handed - a scalpel compared to a lump hammer.
I have been lucky enough to own various supercars including Ferraris, McLaren and Aston, but the i8 attracts at least as much attention - and all of it positive. The variety of people expressing an interest is also very diverse - including plenty of baffled middle aged women and grandmas telling me it is their grandson's favourite car! Not all clients are quite so impressed...turning up to a client meeting in any car with gull wing doors is always going to raise a few eye brows - more so than the Vantage in fact.
I'm a big fan of the interior, the styling is more mainstream than the exterior, but very high quality and I really recommend the naked, textured carbon trim option. I also really like the bright highlight LEDs around the interior which can be varied in color and brightness. Sat nav, Bluetooth and HK stereo are as good as in any other BMW I've tried. A few passengers have expected the doors to close at the push of a button, but they are easy to manage. Getting over the high sill is something of an acquired skill, but adds to the car experience- so long as you are average size, weight and flexibility (try looking up fat man getting out i8 if you want a giggle!)
The ability to preheat or cool the car from your phone or the posey second key is also useful and saves valuable battery power - assuming the car is plugged in.
I could go on, but my final positives relate to running costs. Ok, it is an expensive car - mine with almost every option listed at £120k - but running costs help with the man maths! No road tax, no servicing and I'm averaging 48mpg which is very good for a car that can reach 60 in 4 seconds and entertain at the same time (whilst looking far more interesting than the admittedly faster and more practical Tesla) BMW also came up with a very good deal on finance which makes the monthly finance rate comparable to other less expensive cars.
Some criticise the i8's electrical range, but at least with a petrol engine too, you can keep going. In addition the car does regenerate electrical range as you drive, quite quickly if you drive in sport mode. I plug mine into a standard socket overnight at home which gives an 18 mile range by breakfast. I also stick the car into full electric mode whenever I get close to home so I always get there with an empty battery! Which reminds me of the final positive I'll mention - the turbine option. This gives the car a turbine like whine when in electric mode to warn pedestrians of your approach. Ok, not the same as a v8 burble, but surprisingly entertaining in its own way....
So, would I recommend an i8? Absolutely.
If anyone has any questions feel free to get in touch. I now have contacts at BMW, so if you are interested in buying one, please get in touch
First, a little background, I'm probably not what you would expect of an i8 owner - in that I'm a huge fan of noisy v8s, enjoy driving sideways in my M3 rally car and generally prefer old school cars...
After four happy years I was finally looking to replace my C63 AMG coupe everyday car. Previous daily drivers have included a Vantage, several XKRs, an M3 and even an SLK55. The i8 was not an obvious choice...particularly as I'm a technophobe! In fact I'm such a numptie I don't even know how to post a photo from my iPad on here
If someone more talented can post a picture of a Protonic Dark Silver i8 with white interior and carbon trim, that's what mine looks like...
So, what's the i8 like? In a word, brilliant! Before I get onto why, I'll list the few things that I find less appealing. In no particular order - the battery only range is realistically only 18 miles in my experience, the windscreen pillars and wing mirrors combined can give a large blind spot at some junctions and I find it very hard to reverse unless using the camera. On occasion I also wish it had a drift mode... with extreme provocation it can take up some attitude on the road, but in my experience it is more smudging the rear tyres across the road rather than a proper, satisfying drift. And finally, whilst the doors are part of the car's appeal, ingress and egress can sometimes be a bit of a faff...
So, what do I like? This is a longer list...
The driving experience is unique and quite different to anything I've driven before. The car is the best dual purpose car I've owned, extremely comfortable and quiet one minute and with a quick flick into sports mode a surprisingly fast and entertaining one. The three cylinder engine even sounds good, even if the noise is enhanced, with little pops on downshifts and an entertaining roar to the redline.
The handling is almost surreal, with its lightweight carbon construction and very low center of gravity thanks to the low slung batteries down the car's spine. It is incredible how much grip it generates on such narrow tyres and I much prefer the feel of both the steering wheel and handling balance to the standard M4 and M3 I've driven. To my mind the car feels more in tune with the road, flows better and is less heavy handed - a scalpel compared to a lump hammer.
I have been lucky enough to own various supercars including Ferraris, McLaren and Aston, but the i8 attracts at least as much attention - and all of it positive. The variety of people expressing an interest is also very diverse - including plenty of baffled middle aged women and grandmas telling me it is their grandson's favourite car! Not all clients are quite so impressed...turning up to a client meeting in any car with gull wing doors is always going to raise a few eye brows - more so than the Vantage in fact.
I'm a big fan of the interior, the styling is more mainstream than the exterior, but very high quality and I really recommend the naked, textured carbon trim option. I also really like the bright highlight LEDs around the interior which can be varied in color and brightness. Sat nav, Bluetooth and HK stereo are as good as in any other BMW I've tried. A few passengers have expected the doors to close at the push of a button, but they are easy to manage. Getting over the high sill is something of an acquired skill, but adds to the car experience- so long as you are average size, weight and flexibility (try looking up fat man getting out i8 if you want a giggle!)
The ability to preheat or cool the car from your phone or the posey second key is also useful and saves valuable battery power - assuming the car is plugged in.
I could go on, but my final positives relate to running costs. Ok, it is an expensive car - mine with almost every option listed at £120k - but running costs help with the man maths! No road tax, no servicing and I'm averaging 48mpg which is very good for a car that can reach 60 in 4 seconds and entertain at the same time (whilst looking far more interesting than the admittedly faster and more practical Tesla) BMW also came up with a very good deal on finance which makes the monthly finance rate comparable to other less expensive cars.
Some criticise the i8's electrical range, but at least with a petrol engine too, you can keep going. In addition the car does regenerate electrical range as you drive, quite quickly if you drive in sport mode. I plug mine into a standard socket overnight at home which gives an 18 mile range by breakfast. I also stick the car into full electric mode whenever I get close to home so I always get there with an empty battery! Which reminds me of the final positive I'll mention - the turbine option. This gives the car a turbine like whine when in electric mode to warn pedestrians of your approach. Ok, not the same as a v8 burble, but surprisingly entertaining in its own way....
So, would I recommend an i8? Absolutely.
If anyone has any questions feel free to get in touch. I now have contacts at BMW, so if you are interested in buying one, please get in touch
Good read.
I’m 10k and 18 months into mine (and came from a C63 and a Vantage) and entirely share your views. For me it’s a keeper, probably. And once you’re used to the doors and entry/exit they’re fine, what makes it tricky is it’s a very wide car to begin with.
If it stays an ultra-low volume seller then it could easily be a future classic.
I’m 10k and 18 months into mine (and came from a C63 and a Vantage) and entirely share your views. For me it’s a keeper, probably. And once you’re used to the doors and entry/exit they’re fine, what makes it tricky is it’s a very wide car to begin with.
If it stays an ultra-low volume seller then it could easily be a future classic.
Very insightful post OP - thanks for sharing. 
You seem to be really pleased with it, which is quite a compliment given the sort of cars you have owned previously!
I'd be the first to admit they look fantastic, but I wasn't too sure about the 3-cylinder turbo engine - but you don't seem disappointed so it ought to be OK!
Keep enjoying it.
You seem to be really pleased with it, which is quite a compliment given the sort of cars you have owned previously!
I'd be the first to admit they look fantastic, but I wasn't too sure about the 3-cylinder turbo engine - but you don't seem disappointed so it ought to be OK!
Keep enjoying it.
I'd agree with all of that. Haven't owned one, but my Uncle had one for about 18months and I was lucky to drive it on many occasions and echo's my views; especially in terms of the handling, road holding and comfort.
If there was one negative for me, it was the harshness of the engine sound when it kicked in. It went from being a very quiet, refined experience, to a bit OTT when you were going for it and didn't seem the smoothest of transitions.
But otherwise brilliant.
I'd love one. Still a bit too rich for me, but if they do ever come into my price point, I'll be there like a shot.
If there was one negative for me, it was the harshness of the engine sound when it kicked in. It went from being a very quiet, refined experience, to a bit OTT when you were going for it and didn't seem the smoothest of transitions.
But otherwise brilliant.
I'd love one. Still a bit too rich for me, but if they do ever come into my price point, I'll be there like a shot.
bad company said:
Nice piece on an interesting car. I always fancied one but wondered if was right as an every day driver for me. I’m okay with charging etc., but I’m concerned about those doors opening in my garage and car parks. Any parking problems?
Thanks. The doors aren't really any issue from a space point of view, they easily open in most spaces, the only thing you have to be careful of is catching a neighbouring car's wing mirror - especially SUVs where the mirrors are high and stick out a long way. No issue in single garages. My McLaren 12c on the other hand is really tricky! If someone can explain how I can upload a photo from my iPad I'll be able to show how close you can park to a neighbouring car. You quickly get a feel for what you can get away with...
Really didn't like the look of these in photos, but there is someone round here (Torquay) that has recently got one and I see it frequently. My God, it's a stunner in the flesh! I have never heard it so assume it's in electric mode but the looks alone would have me buying one... if I could afford it that is 
I get bored with most cars, I have had 911's a GT4 and some other nice cars but I don't feel the desire to switch my i8 to anything else and its been almost 11 months.
I was not as impressed by the handling but then I came from a Porsche, I feel the brakes could be better, wheels wider and handling a bit more focused. Other than that I love the car.
I was not as impressed by the handling but then I came from a Porsche, I feel the brakes could be better, wheels wider and handling a bit more focused. Other than that I love the car.
Any further update OP (or anyone else) ? I'm very tempted by an i8 and have enjoyed brief test drives. I'm just a bit nervous as to if it will be as enjoyable as some of the competition, but I think its just a slightly different type of enjoyment.
Would appreciate any further updates.
Would appreciate any further updates.
Mine is coming up on 2 years old and I still love it. I really can't think what might replace it, and I am a bit of a serial car-changer.
Its due the first service in a couple of weeks (11k miles) and part of that includes "software upgrades" so a drive-in/out 90 min oil change has been extended to a 2-day service slot, boo. But, the service is free (as it is for the first 5 years) and they're lending me another i8 as a courtesy car - can't do much better than that.
Its due the first service in a couple of weeks (11k miles) and part of that includes "software upgrades" so a drive-in/out 90 min oil change has been extended to a 2-day service slot, boo. But, the service is free (as it is for the first 5 years) and they're lending me another i8 as a courtesy car - can't do much better than that.
My car background is very similar to the OPs, big V8's (Genuine Cobra), Aero 8 Morgan and lots of Caterhams, E types, Twisted Defender etc. I took a real gamble on a 2015 i8 in October and not regretted it for a second. It's a proper drivers car, hugely useable, very comfy and really stunning to look at.
I'm averaging over 50MPG and use it mainly as a weekend toy. I love it and can't see me wanting to sell it ever. I used to lust after a modern Aston or 991 but no longer. Everything else seems out of date somehow.
Interestingly, a high profile BMW dealer was telling me prices seem to be bottoming out and good low mileage early cars are becoming increasingly of interest to their clientele. He also said people are now talking about the I8 as a sure fire classic.
I'm averaging over 50MPG and use it mainly as a weekend toy. I love it and can't see me wanting to sell it ever. I used to lust after a modern Aston or 991 but no longer. Everything else seems out of date somehow.
Interestingly, a high profile BMW dealer was telling me prices seem to be bottoming out and good low mileage early cars are becoming increasingly of interest to their clientele. He also said people are now talking about the I8 as a sure fire classic.
Hungrymc said:
Any further update OP (or anyone else) ? I'm very tempted by an i8 and have enjoyed brief test drives. I'm just a bit nervous as to if it will be as enjoyable as some of the competition, but I think its just a slightly different type of enjoyment.
Would appreciate any further updates.
Hi Hungry, I’ll give an update below and also send you a pm. If anyone else is seriously interested in buying one please get in touch - my i8 isn’t for sale, but I have contacts at BMW who may be able to help you...Would appreciate any further updates.
I thought I’d post another i8 update as requested. I have been using the car regularly throughout the winter and am making the most of the pre heating function from the key (although can be done from a phone App too) I thought it would be a gimmick, but it is great getting into a warm car and not needing to de ice it. The car also preheats using electricity to help preserve your range. The car is parked 100m from my house but the range isn’t an issue.
The charge point I often use near my office was out of action for a few weeks meaning my average mpg over 7k miles dropped from 48.2 to 48, but still very impressive and more than I expected.
When covered in grime the car is better at being discreet, but after a valet the other day I am again amazed at the public’s positive reaction. There still aren’t many i8s about - especially at this time of year. In fact whereas I used to see several a week in the Southampton and Bournemouth area, writing this reminds me I haven’t seen another for ages!
I took a couple of clients out for lunch in it the other day, fortunately the 60 year old wife was bendy and game for a laugh - she was wearing a skirt and we were all in hysterics trying to get her into the back. Far easier if you’re not wearing a tight skirt! The back seats are best for children or short journeys - better than a 911, but not by much.
The interior is still immaculate and very solid, no squeaks or rattles. Only issue is that one rear light has condensation in it, will get it sorted under warranty when my diary allows.
Still really enjoying the car and every passenger has been more impressed by it than they expected to be.
I’d encourage any sceptical petrolhead to take a decent test drive. If you are seriously interested please get in touch as I have BMW contacts who may be able to help...
The charge point I often use near my office was out of action for a few weeks meaning my average mpg over 7k miles dropped from 48.2 to 48, but still very impressive and more than I expected.
When covered in grime the car is better at being discreet, but after a valet the other day I am again amazed at the public’s positive reaction. There still aren’t many i8s about - especially at this time of year. In fact whereas I used to see several a week in the Southampton and Bournemouth area, writing this reminds me I haven’t seen another for ages!
I took a couple of clients out for lunch in it the other day, fortunately the 60 year old wife was bendy and game for a laugh - she was wearing a skirt and we were all in hysterics trying to get her into the back. Far easier if you’re not wearing a tight skirt! The back seats are best for children or short journeys - better than a 911, but not by much.
The interior is still immaculate and very solid, no squeaks or rattles. Only issue is that one rear light has condensation in it, will get it sorted under warranty when my diary allows.
Still really enjoying the car and every passenger has been more impressed by it than they expected to be.
I’d encourage any sceptical petrolhead to take a decent test drive. If you are seriously interested please get in touch as I have BMW contacts who may be able to help...
Thanks for the update !
I really enjoyed my test drive and I’m sure it would be a very useable car which is always fun (fun for several reasons - the way it performs, the EV side around town, the doors, the knowing it’s odd and special but at the same time works as a very sporty GT). I think I’d use it as my main car, only sometimes turning to one a bit bigger, and sometimes one that’s a little more raw.
The big dilemma I have is if I go this route or I go for something loud and dramatic which I’ll probably only use for a couple of thousand miles a year. This means the i8 hasn’t got any direct competition for me, it will come down to a clever i8 to use lots, or a raucous V10 spyder for weekends......
Please do share any further thoughts or advice.
I really enjoyed my test drive and I’m sure it would be a very useable car which is always fun (fun for several reasons - the way it performs, the EV side around town, the doors, the knowing it’s odd and special but at the same time works as a very sporty GT). I think I’d use it as my main car, only sometimes turning to one a bit bigger, and sometimes one that’s a little more raw.
The big dilemma I have is if I go this route or I go for something loud and dramatic which I’ll probably only use for a couple of thousand miles a year. This means the i8 hasn’t got any direct competition for me, it will come down to a clever i8 to use lots, or a raucous V10 spyder for weekends......
Please do share any further thoughts or advice.
Glad you enjoyed the test drive! Whether an i8 or R8 will suit you better is hard to know. As you haven’t owned a supercar before, the R8 would arguably tick that box...but as you say, you’ll probably find you don’t use it that often. This is less of an issue if the car is appreciating in value, but gets you down if it isn’t!
Of course an i8 isn’t immune from depreciation- unless you lease a new one as I did. If you have two children the i8 will definitely get more use - especially if they are between 4-12 years. Any younger and you won’t have room for baby stuff, any bigger and they’ll complain unless they are in the front...
You are more likely to push the i8 on the road than the R8 in my opinion. The i8 is very forgiving but still a hell of a lot of fun to pedal hard. The R8 has the potential to bite harder if you overcook it.
The i8 is a better dual purpose car, super comfy (as is the R8 to be fair), but very relaxing when you want it to be. If you found you used your Lotus a lot, I’m sure an R8 would be just as usable. If the Lotus was a garage queen then an i8 may be a better bet. Fun everyday, rather than just at weekends!
Of course an i8 isn’t immune from depreciation- unless you lease a new one as I did. If you have two children the i8 will definitely get more use - especially if they are between 4-12 years. Any younger and you won’t have room for baby stuff, any bigger and they’ll complain unless they are in the front...
You are more likely to push the i8 on the road than the R8 in my opinion. The i8 is very forgiving but still a hell of a lot of fun to pedal hard. The R8 has the potential to bite harder if you overcook it.
The i8 is a better dual purpose car, super comfy (as is the R8 to be fair), but very relaxing when you want it to be. If you found you used your Lotus a lot, I’m sure an R8 would be just as usable. If the Lotus was a garage queen then an i8 may be a better bet. Fun everyday, rather than just at weekends!
Flanners said:
Getting a realistic proposition to own rather then 'rent' given the savage eye watering depreciation, many used 2 year examples are now sub £60k.
Don't forget most first i8 owners had the £15-20k BMW/Government 'saving' so take that into consideration when looking at the car.Edited by Flanners on Tuesday 19th June 07:40
I've been a Protonic Red owner for the last 18 months, I have to say the car is an utter pleasure to drive, always attracting good attention and guaranteed to turn heads.
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