BMW has done an outstanding job in achieving its goal of creating an “Ultimate Driving Machine” with the global premier of the 2017 BMW i8 at GIMS 2017. The breathtaking marvel of engineering and design, the “i8 Protonic Frozen Black Edition” became the center of attention for car enthusiasts across the globe soon after its launch. BMW’s innovative plug-in hybrid has reshaped the idea of how a modern plugin hybrid should look and perform.
With the eDrive technology as an integral part of its performance parameters, the new 2017 BMW i8 brings an exhilarating driving experience. Here is a review of the 2017 BMW i8 with a closer look at the engine, performance and design.
Also read: 5 Best Eco-Friendly Cars from Geneva International Motor Show 2017
Innovative Design of 2017 BMW i8
The innovative and distinctively sporty design of the 2017 BMW i8 is truly a work of art. The interior is just as breathtaking and luxurious as one would expect from a vehicle by BMW. It will surely turn heads when it is driven down the road.
Exterior
The 2017 BMW i8 has a striking exterior with short overhangs, long wheelbase and precise lines. All thanks to its sweeping silhouette, this sports coupe gives a perception of being in motion even when it is standing still.
The exterior is more outstanding because of the scissor doors that make a powerful style statement. The 2017 BMW i8 encounters less drag force, all-thanks to its aerodynamic design, however the rear wing is designed to provide a significant amount of downforce to reach high speeds easily and without compromising on stability.
A feeling close to flying. The #BMWi8. https://t.co/MKvPvS4JVF pic.twitter.com/HqwdfQ2xjF
— BMW (@BMW) March 13, 2017
This plugin hybrid also features EfficientDynamic technology that allows the vents to close and open to enhance the cooling effect while reducing the overall drag. It has a very aerodynamic exterior, largely because of its light weight frame made from Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) and aluminum.
Interior
The interior of the 2017 BMW i8 is very luxurious and sporty. The dashboard and the center console are easily reachable for the driver which adds to the comfort and convenience of the interior. The 3-spoke multi-functional leather-wrapped sport steering wheel has paddle shifter right behind it so that the driver can easily reach them.
An 8.8-inch high-resolution screen is located on the dashboard with the BMW Navigation Professional system. The new entertainment system also gives 20 GB storage for audio files, voice commands and a lot more so that the driver can truly experience the “hands-off” technology by BMW.
The 6-way power front seats have a 3-stage heated system so that the passengers can enjoy a relaxed ride every single time. Other than that, the interior is available in three optional packages which are as follows:
- Mega World: This optional package offers a light and modern interior that is wrapped in recycled and contrasting materials.
- Giga World: This optional package offers an elegantly sporty interior with a choice of black or white accents in the overall interior materials.
- Tera World: This optional package offers a stylish interior that is wrapped in naturally tanned premium leather with blue accents in the steering wheel and seats.
Also read: 7th Generation BMW 5 Series Unveiled: All You Need to Know
Unparalleled Performance
BMW brings a turbo charged performance with the new 2017 BMW i8 plugin hybrid. This coupe is fitted with an innovative electric motor that is placed on the front axle while a TwinPower Turbo 3-cylinder engine is responsible for driving the rear axle for superior performance.
The electric motor and the TwinPower Turbo engine have a combined output of 420 lb-ft of torque, 357 horsepower and a top speed of 249 Km/h. With these specifications, the 2017 BMW i8 can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds.
The eDrive technology is mixed with the plugin hybrid system to bring a fuel efficiency of 76 MPGe. This coupe is an all-wheel drive offering 6-speed automatic transmission with the paddle shifter located behind the steering wheel.
The electric motor is powered by 7.1kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery that can be fully charged in just 2.5 hours with the 3.3 kW AC charging. The 2017 BMW i8 has 4 driving modes, i.e.
- Comfort Mode: This is the standard mode that brings a balanced drive with good fuel efficiency and superb sporty performance.
- Sports Mode: This mode offers ultra-intense boost function by the electric motor for better sports car performance.
- ECO PRO Mode: This mode offers an optimised and more efficient driving style that can be applied to both all-electric and hybrid mode.
- eDRIVE Mode: eDrive is the all-electric mode that offers a top speed of 75 mph and maximum driving range of up to 15 miles with no emission.
Safety Features in 2017 BMW i8
The 2017 BMW i8 plugin hybrid has the following safety features:
- 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
- City Collision Mitigation
- Coded Driveaway Protection
- Park Distance Control
- Tire Pressure Monitor
- Full-color Head-up Display
- Cruise Control
The Price of 2017 BMW i8 in the UAE
This premium sports coupe is already available in the UAE market. The price of 2017 BMW i8 in the UAE is between AED 635,000 and AED 800,000.
If you are a BMW enthusiast and you are planning to buy the all-new 2017 BMW i8, then don’t forget that you can sell any used car to SellAnyCar.com in just 30 minutes regardless of its model, age or condition or even it is bank financed.
