I own an i8 since 1,5 years now. The maintenance costs are about 600 USD a year. The services that are being made are changing the fluids, replace filter,s etc. Repair costs since now: 0 USD. The fully charged battery is good for 53km of range. Parts are no issue since now, but that might change in the future - but that is not a specific problem with the i8. My 2004 Z4 is sitting at the BMW dealership for about 3 weeks now, waiting for parts...
An i8 is the biggest waste of money. A g80 is far superior in every way. It’s more reliable and can make much more power. The bmw i8 was a disappointment as it looks cool but has a 3 cylinder engine
@@2seep I have a different perspective. I wanted an electric convertible. There aren't many on the market. The i8 Roadster is one of them. And I wanted a car that holds its value on the long term. Compare it with the Z8. Limited production model, cool looks, but the Z8 is not the fastest car either. The Z8 was not a sales success, but now the values are 1-4x of the original new car price tag. The BMW M3 of its day is worth less (0,5-1x of the original new car price).
I’d have to agree when I saw this the first time 9 years ago, I thought it was a technological well situated hyper car. Despite what people say, BMW had some great innovation with this vehicle and it’s still one of those vehicles that I see drive by that I would love to have a drive through some scenic roads.
I picked one up a few months back and am delighted with it. It has more than adequate power and works without fault whatsoever. I find that the looks are captivating, easily the most visually appealing BMW in years (apart from the Z8, 1M and M2). I have managed to crack the ingress part, but have yet to adequately find a consistently dignified method of egress. This is the ONLY downside. By the way, I greatly enjoyed your Alaska to USA adventure and hope you compile more i8 adventures.
Both this and the i3 may have been flawed vehicles when they came out but as the vehicle landscape has changed they are some of the few cars that became more stylish with age with many features and ideas people are begging modern cars to have
Agree on the BMW interiors from the late 2010s - especially the preset buttons, which you can actually set to almost any function in IDrive, one of the best features I’ve seen in an infotainment system.
I own several cars (488 Pista, 992, Portofino) and two i8 roadster. The i8 is not the best handling and by far not the fastest, but none of the other cars give me the feeling of driving a milestone in (BMW) car history and a concept car in one. For me a amsterpiece and future classic, more than a Z8 or M1.
I think that in order to understand the philosophy of i8, one has to own one. Preferably here at the “old continent”. As I think that i8 was mainly designed for “EU kind of use”, meaning 6x higher gas prices & emission taxes, shorter commuting & shorter distances, 10x better public charging network (compared to US), 2x better home charging speeds (220V house hold network) etc. The problem that i8 faces is that used car buyers (especially at the US) compares it only to Corvettes, newer Mustangs and Camaros, older 911’s etc. When it was targeted to whole different type of audience. It was never meant to be a 500bhp track day sports car, 0-60 under 3 sec type of super car, despite the “supercar” design. The design was meant to relay futuristic, efficient dynamics, similar to the i3 (which no doubt is kind of anomaly in the USA). There’s plenty of books out there regarding the whole philosophy of designing a i8, shame that almost no-one will ever understand as they won’t read anything. They just judge anything, cars and other crap simply by looks, by numbers. Without ever understanding anything more in depth. But in order to fully enjoy the i8, one has to understand its philosophy rather than complain about 3 cyl engine or “slower than Corvette” ¼ mile numbers. I’ve owned my fair share of sports cars and the i8 has really grown into me. Here in EU one really can take full advantage of the “plugin hybrid” system, one can charge the car every night at home and every day at work or during grocery run, one gets huge tax benefits, insurance benefits and when gas cost 4-5-6 times more than in US - one saves $300-400-500 per month on gas alone. Last smiles per miles and miles per miles; I put 39 liters (10,3 US gal) of fuel into the car and got 1409km (875,5 miles) out of one tank of fuel. Simply by charging the car when ever I could, and here in EU one really has plenty of places to charge EV vehicles. I wonder what type of transportation would your average US citizen use, if the gas would cost as much as here in Europe; around $7-8 ... even 9 dollars per US gallon. I assume that i8 kind of cars would actually make some sense then...
Agreed. It would be a no-brainer. My workplace garage has 3 level 2 chargers for about 500 parking spaces but I have a variable rate electric plan offered by my local utility where I only pay $0.07 per kWh at night, charge my Volvo T8 overnight, and use one tank of gas for about every 1500 miles of use since it covers my commute and errands almost completely.
That was a lot of words just to say "it's fuel efficient". There is literally no other argument in this pretentious word soup about "design philosophy", outside of the fact that its a plug-in hybrid with low range. thanks for wasting my time 🤦
Had an i8 since 1.5 years ago. Love it!! No issues whatsoever. Just done the annual oil change for 400 Canadian dollars and that's all. I did wrap the car for 3000 bucks and got spacers to push out the rims for a better ride and looks good too.
I have never seen an I8 up-close apart from driving past me on the road, and I loved this review. This car really is gorgeous outside, and that classic interior, really makes me sad for most cars today..
I had the i8 roadster as a Company Car in the UK for 3 years. I bought it from the local BMW dealer second hand, a year Old. One owner, just a few K miles. Big discount on new. Problem was I put too many miles on it. No faults or unscheduled days off road. Only expenses were tyres all round, front brake pads & discs. Looked great especially with the roof down. It was great learning curve from ICE to Hybrid. I got the Home Charger with Government Grant. Train myself to to plug it in every night. Left home in an ambient car with a full battery every morning. Gave me the confidence to go Full EV. So, I bought a second hand Porsche Taycan. Had it 16 months now. Big learning curve with charging regimes! The car itself is great will serve its purpose for the next few years! Would go back to ICE? Well, I've had 3phase 100Amps/phase fitted at home! What do you think?
Love this car! I've owned one for a bit and it still makes you feel special getting in and out of it. It is extremely comfortable on road trips and still turns heads. It's amazing how many people have never seen or even heard of this car.
Many thanks for this great review. I wanted an i8 ever since it launched. Bought a 2016 plate in calypso grey this July and I absolutely love it. A fantastic car, amazing looks, awesome drive, real head turner. So many people have commented on it. Why did I wait so long?? Best wishes from the UK 😊
Absolutely love that I8. They are a steal at 40 K, and definitely future classics. There’s no way they’re not gonna double in price in the next decade.
I always found the rear body styling fantastic on this car. The way the rear roof line and fender come together and create that aero channel that comes out over the tail light - just brilliant and beautiful. It's like the whole side of the car is a giant NACA duct. I wish this car was a BEV - I'd buy one.
This design is the blueprint for an inexpensive and fast car with great mileage. - Yes, it cost HUGE amounts of money when built. HOWEVER, these days the tech has improved. Today, a front ICE engine/rear electric drive PHEV vehicle could be much less expensive . . . Toyota uses this concept these days, but in a Toyota (efficient, reliable, not fast). If a fast, efficient vehicle was available in the 50k range with better utility space, imagine how many vehicles that a manufacturer would likely sell! Love that car, way ahead of it's time!!! Great video, Roman . . . you delivery is so much better when you love a vehicle . . . sometimes you really over emphasize the negatives.
8:25 You know that you can program this on i.e. button No. 2, right? The preset buttons are not just for radio stations which makes it even more user friendly.
The most beautiful i8 ever made was the AC Schnitzer version. The body kit and wheels they gave it made it look like a veritable spaceship. Reliable they are not blowing head gaskets and cracking windshields apparently to name a few expensive fixes but still a brilliant vehicle.
PHEVs are totally underrated. Clearly this one is the best. I have a 2021 Kia Niro SX PHEV and love it. Absolutely bland styling (opposite of i8), but super cool and fun to drive with fantastic gas mileage. Now, I just need to look for a used i8. 😜
I've owned a 2020 i3 since March - and agree that it and the i8 were well ahead of their time. Unfortunate that the manufacturing processes were, as far as I know, lost with the discontinuation of these models. Having a car weighing less than 3,330lbs is huge fun, and the styling language has aged well enough that it starts conversations every time I take it out.
I owned the little brother, an i3. for those that haven’t, watch the video on how it’s made, all carbon fiber, insane technology for 2014. I still miss it. My friend bought an i8 new, and running around San Diego it was hard to find a sports car that could keep up with it. The power band is so smooth and never hesitates all the way to 100mph+
Their best cars are still their best though. M2,m3,m4, x5m,x6m,m8 .. I even like the new m5 but I can def see it's not as good looking as the older f90.
@@G82Watts I dont agree, they are more expensive than the AMG and their tech is confusing, BMW is completly wrong about the car reality. Well, they sell, but they are selling overpriced crap for people that really dont care about driving or looks, they only care about status.
@@jonascampelo871 dude what? Bmw has been blowing audi and Mercedes away in every track and drag race. The b58 and s58 are the most renowned engines in the car community
@@G82Watts Real World, I drive in the real world, with very twisty roads, speed bumps and lots of cars around me. BMW no longer makes cars for the real world, thats a fact. Sad but true. I had two BMW's in the 90's and 2000's, amazing machines, great quality and great mileage, today BMW's are a joke, very expensive joke.
Used to have an i8, did everything, best car for me in every way. Paid more than 130,000. Then people on the inter shit on it, especially on the mini engine. Knowing the fact it's not a supercar myself, but it does almost 7L/100 at sport mode is heaven to me. Almost 3L/100 when full charge, great daily drive aswell. Love it personally. Had to switch after having kid, because everybody shits on it, price drops like crazy, sold it at 68000. End story😢 lol still love this car 100% thou, fk what others say
An early BMW hybrid! What could possible go wrong? A BMW Mini 3cyl powerplant with all the complexity of 10-year-old BMW electronics. But it's so pretty!!
@@AgonxOC For now! There are TWO separate cooling systems and each one is very complex and prone to issues. Overheating is common on these and youtubers like Samcrac and Pat's Garage can totally explain why it's often a nightmare to diagnose and fix. For a car to go up in value over time it has to not grenade itself!
@@fboomerang Very complex for those who do not understand how systems work. The issue of the modern car mechanic is the inability to diagnose system due to their lack of basic understanding of those systems. Again nothing new, people just lack understanding of how things work.
Great review and what a great idea to buy one. I always loved the looks of it but agree a tough entry and exit especially for a 70 year old. I just bought a Tesla model 3 performance for about same amount after the tax credit. Wish I had seen this first.
You can go to Sam's Club - just don't buy in bulk! I just sold my Porsche Boxster - fun car, but not great in LA traffic. The i8 (kind of forgotten) seems like a perfect alternative for an "older gentleman" like me!
TFL used to swear that range rovers are the best 4wd vehicles bar none. This is sort of the same. The i8 and i3 are such software nightmares and so unique that every well known independent BMW shops in the SF Bay Area refuses to tackle major issues. Hybrid EV specialists also pass on attempting major repairs. The dealership experience is spending a $10k chunk every few days as they try to figure out the car. It’s also the one car rich rebuilds completely gave up on.
@TheRealCatof this engine has been proven to be reliable. My 2016 340i xdrive was bought after leased at 28k miles now 104k miles no problem whatsoever
The current small engine works well with this car; combined with the motor, it has decent power and still remains light. Dropping the EV powertrain to swap in the B58 would change the weight distribution significantly and make it a completely different car with much different driving characteristics. Might even make the 0-60 times slower since you have less weight and less grip on the rear tires.
@TheRealCatof Really? Why is my daily N52 at 230k miles? Only issue was plastic water pump replacement at 130k. My friends E92 M3 is at 156k, not a single issue. Not even the throttle actuators have gone out. My m3 is at 75k, so still relatively new but zero issues. Check forums. N52’s over 400k miles, 200k+ is common. Guy on RUclips with an E9x M3 with close to 300k miles on it IIRC. Educate yourself on the brand before you go spewing more fake news
I'm a forever fan of internal combustion, and hate full electric cars, for now. But I do think that this BMW is a perfect example of what should be on the market right now, until battery technology can properly compete. I just bought a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited with the H.O 4.7, and if I drive it normally and not like a jerk, it barely burns more fuel than my old anemic 2.5L, 4-banger manual 1998 Ford Ranger single cab.... And as also shown with the LS in Corvettes, V8s can actually be reasonnable on gas in everyday driving; now imagine that with that kind of hybrid tech!!!! Range, torque, and fuel economy!!!! I'd buy that right now instead of electric!!!!
I wonder if these can get an updated battery swap with a newer tech battery (larger too?). It could then provide better speed, performance, range, and efficiency.
I know in the i3 they did a bunch of updates/improvements, I wonder if the i8 got those as well. In the i3 world the 2018+ are the ones to get. I wonder how it is with the i8. I also wonder if BMW offers a warranty on those if you go in and try to purchase one.
Absolute disastrous vehicle to own. All vehicles will eventually will need repairs and this will be a bankrupt vehicle if hits the service department at the dealer. Think of this vehicle like any 1980s Ferrari, it will cost you a fortune to service. What you save on gas on this BMW, you will spend X100 more on service. Software repairs and software issues will keep the vehicle at the dealership.
@@dansimmons21These guys are all part marketers that work for manufacturers. If they really care for people’s well being they will suggest to people to buy a Corolla and call it a day.
He cant as it will dry out his bank account faster then wife or girlfriend 😉👍, money wise its a reason why it cost over 100k when new..lets face it if you have spare 100k for 2nd 4th car..you not worry about 20k/year for service, parts and labour left in BMW dealership 😉👍@dansimmons21
You said that modern McLaren cars copied the performance and abilities of the 2015 BMW i8. However, you got that backwards because the McLaren P1 was produced from October 2013 - December 2015. Before the P1 hybrid cars like the Prius were boring and focused only on maximum gas milage. But McLaren created a car that allowed the driver to use only electric, only gas, or send power from both to the rear wheels at the same time for maximum performance. McLaren made hybrid cars exciting for the first time. The BMW i8 is a milder version of the McLaren P1. I had no interest in electric vehicles or hybrids until I saw a review of the P1 on "Top Gear" because the way McLaren combined the transaxle, inverter, and electric motor into a single unit was a mechanical work of art. Even though the drivetrain components under the car will never be seen they are aestheticly beautiful. I spent hours looking at pictures of the P1 drivetrain components like it was a sculpture in a museum. After that I started researching electric/hybrid technology because McLaren showed that you didn't have to choose performance or fuel economy and in the future you could have both in a fun/exciting vehicle.
McLaren didn't really "create" the type. The Porsche 918 and LaFerrari came out at the same time and were also performance focused hybrids. Top gear or the grand tour did a three car comparison and the McLaren finished third, weird considering the McLaren was the only english car.
@rmarevalo I have no interest in Ferrari or Porsche. The reason I liked the McLaren was that it was a rear wheel drive car. I know that all wheel drive is better for certain situations, but rear wheel drive is more fun. Unless you are racing these cars on a track then first place or third place is meaningless. I like the mechanical design of McLaren cars from the chassis to the way they route fluid lines. New cars are all about taking control away from the driver in the name of safety, which is why I have no interest in modern cars. The P1 sent all the horsepower/torque to the rear wheels, creating a fast and terrifying hybrid car. Companies like Hennessey don't create high horsepower cars in the name of safety but for driver enjoyment and thrills. I respect any technology (internal combustion or hybrid) that gives the driver full control and allows you to take it to the ragged edge.
What was your take on battery risk? It seems like dropping 50 grand on a car whose battery is out of warranty is a big risk. I'm guessing its not cheap to replace/repair. Do you know if there is any way to circumvent it, to use petrol only of the drive battery fails?
Nice review. I have my i8 over 2 years. I adore it. Your 100% right above the idrive. Its a pleasure to use. When my car was getting serviced they gave me a brand new bmw and the new idrive is awful. All touch screen and over completed. I8 has everything you need with out being completed with buttons. I daily drive mine and i still enjoy it the same way as when i bought it. The excitement did not wear off for me. Have a full titanium exhaust which makes it sound a lot better.
Don't get me wrong the i8 is a lovely vehicle but I just bought an i3 black-and-white panda and it is absolutely far more I think stylish more room more practical 0 to 60 and 2.9 seconds has the Rex motor at the back gets a combined range of 380 km ...charges in 2 1/2 hours fit two adults in the back easily definitely check out the i3's ... lot less maintenance cost far less moving parts all of Electric the small 9 L gas tank ...
@@michaelc2254 Agree. I have owned a 2019 i8 Roadster for 2 years now. Best, most enjoyable car I've ever owned. No problems whatsoever. You will never own a car that gets more attention. It's insane how interested people are in looking and talking about it where ever I go. Don't mind what Markcollins says above. It is overstated criticism.
All I can think about Rich Rebuilds video where I think the key fob died or the 12v died and it was a nightmare to get moving again. I think the i3 is a better buy
They sell for around 50k used. For that kind of money, you could get used Tesla Plaid that is only 2 years old though not a hybrid, can give you 1000hp
One day when you get a little older and it's cold and rainy outside you will understand and appreciate the easy of ingres and engres of a dinky hybrid SUV that flies below the radar... But between now and then enjoy 😊
An i3 was made from the same stuff but cost 1/3 of the price so it's crazy price if because they wanted to make money and it looks like a sports car so they can get away with charging that much.
BMWs are beautiful vehicles and fun to drive. However, you will probably need mental health counseling as soon as you see how much they depreciate and the emergency room if it need to have any type of repairs.😢
That’s why you buy them AFTER they depreciate and get a good deal; avoid models with low reliability, but this one is an exception in that it has quality components that are mostly shared and thus reasonably serviceable. Just don’t get into a minor fender bender, as any damage to the body is impossible to repair and totals the car.
I dont think they are asking you what it is because it timeless, its probably more like they've never seen one before. The front end looks old already. Now the rest of the car is fantastioc.
It takes a lot for me to forget about a car ..... And I legitimately forgot about the I8... Ahead of it's time, sure... It's just a shame it didn't have a turbo 6.
People ask you what make is your car because you live in Colorado, they won’t ask you in Miami Fl, that car is nice but 14 years old. Come to Miami and check out the cars😮
I own an i8 since 1,5 years now. The maintenance costs are about 600 USD a year. The services that are being made are changing the fluids, replace filter,s etc. Repair costs since now: 0 USD. The fully charged battery is good for 53km of range. Parts are no issue since now, but that might change in the future - but that is not a specific problem with the i8. My 2004 Z4 is sitting at the BMW dealership for about 3 weeks now, waiting for parts...
An i8 is the biggest waste of money. A g80 is far superior in every way. It’s more reliable and can make much more power. The bmw i8 was a disappointment as it looks cool but has a 3 cylinder engine
@@2seep I have a different perspective. I wanted an electric convertible. There aren't many on the market. The i8 Roadster is one of them. And I wanted a car that holds its value on the long term. Compare it with the Z8. Limited production model, cool looks, but the Z8 is not the fastest car either. The Z8 was not a sales success, but now the values are 1-4x of the original new car price tag. The BMW M3 of its day is worth less (0,5-1x of the original new car price).
Nice review. Thanks. What kind of mpg do you get for long trips?.
Looks cooler and better mpg but thats just my perspective. G80 to an average person who isnt super in to BMW just looks like another bmw lol.
Like if you paused this video half way through to check autotrader 😅
Just make sure you have the funds to maintain a $150K German car that the manufacturer doesn’t support anymore.
I made it 3 minutes into the video, found a 2015 close by for 40k 😅
Same! Lol 😆
No it's say it worth 21k to 35k the 2015 the one that's 100k plus is 2020 n up
They are 30 k here in uk have seen couple at 28 k with 160,000 plus miles
That car was ahead of its time
A car way ahead of its time. Still looks good today. Glad you were finally able to purchase an i8.
Bought my 2019 i8 Coupe 3 years ago, absolutely love it only have 14k miles on it. Still one of the most unique cars on the road
I’d have to agree when I saw this the first time 9 years ago, I thought it was a technological well situated hyper car. Despite what people say, BMW had some great innovation with this vehicle and it’s still one of those vehicles that I see drive by that I would love to have a drive through some scenic roads.
I picked one up a few months back and am delighted with it. It has more than adequate power and works without fault whatsoever.
I find that the looks are captivating, easily the most visually appealing BMW in years (apart from the Z8, 1M and M2).
I have managed to crack the ingress part, but have yet to adequately find a consistently dignified method of egress. This is the ONLY downside.
By the way, I greatly enjoyed your Alaska to USA adventure and hope you compile more i8 adventures.
Just wait until something breaks. Your delightfulness will go away real fast.
@@andyleo8418 The engine is just out of a cooper mini. Now all the hybrid drive stuff, that could be a problem.
@@andyleo8418 BMW Warranty! Purchase one for peace of mind.
Both this and the i3 may have been flawed vehicles when they came out but as the vehicle landscape has changed they are some of the few cars that became more stylish with age with many features and ideas people are begging modern cars to have
Agree on the BMW interiors from the late 2010s - especially the preset buttons, which you can actually set to almost any function in IDrive, one of the best features I’ve seen in an infotainment system.
I love that part of iDrive. Had it in the i3 and loved it.
I own several cars (488 Pista, 992, Portofino) and two i8 roadster. The i8 is not the best handling and by far not the fastest, but none of the other cars give me the feeling of driving a milestone in (BMW) car history and a concept car in one. For me a amsterpiece and future classic, more than a Z8 or M1.
I think that in order to understand the philosophy of i8, one has to own one. Preferably here at the “old continent”. As I think that i8 was mainly designed for “EU kind of use”, meaning 6x higher gas prices & emission taxes, shorter commuting & shorter distances, 10x better public charging network (compared to US), 2x better home charging speeds (220V house hold network) etc.
The problem that i8 faces is that used car buyers (especially at the US) compares it only to Corvettes, newer Mustangs and Camaros, older 911’s etc. When it was targeted to whole different type of audience. It was never meant to be a 500bhp track day sports car, 0-60 under 3 sec type of super car, despite the “supercar” design.
The design was meant to relay futuristic, efficient dynamics, similar to the i3 (which no doubt is kind of anomaly in the USA). There’s plenty of books out there regarding the whole philosophy of designing a i8, shame that almost no-one will ever understand as they won’t read anything. They just judge anything, cars and other crap simply by looks, by numbers. Without ever understanding anything more in depth. But in order to fully enjoy the i8, one has to understand its philosophy rather than complain about 3 cyl engine or “slower than Corvette” ¼ mile numbers.
I’ve owned my fair share of sports cars and the i8 has really grown into me. Here in EU one really can take full advantage of the “plugin hybrid” system, one can charge the car every night at home and every day at work or during grocery run, one gets huge tax benefits, insurance benefits and when gas cost 4-5-6 times more than in US - one saves $300-400-500 per month on gas alone. Last smiles per miles and miles per miles; I put 39 liters (10,3 US gal) of fuel into the car and got 1409km (875,5 miles) out of one tank of fuel. Simply by charging the car when ever I could, and here in EU one really has plenty of places to charge EV vehicles.
I wonder what type of transportation would your average US citizen use, if the gas would cost as much as here in Europe; around $7-8 ... even 9 dollars per US gallon. I assume that i8 kind of cars would actually make some sense then...
I 100% agree.
Agreed. It would be a no-brainer. My workplace garage has 3 level 2 chargers for about 500 parking spaces but I have a variable rate electric plan offered by my local utility where I only pay $0.07 per kWh at night, charge my Volvo T8 overnight, and use one tank of gas for about every 1500 miles of use since it covers my commute and errands almost completely.
Excellent insight for us Americans. Thanks!
At last, a post that understands the ethos of i8. Leave the numskulls to their own devices
That was a lot of words just to say "it's fuel efficient". There is literally no other argument in this pretentious word soup about "design philosophy", outside of the fact that its a plug-in hybrid with low range. thanks for wasting my time 🤦
This car looked like a spacecraft when it came out. I love the looks.
Had an i8 since 1.5 years ago. Love it!! No issues whatsoever. Just done the annual oil change for 400 Canadian dollars and that's all. I did wrap the car for 3000 bucks and got spacers to push out the rims for a better ride and looks good too.
As someone still driving a 2014 BMW 535i, I kindof enjoy someone enjoying my old school buttons
I have never seen an I8 up-close apart from driving past me on the road, and I loved this review. This car really is gorgeous outside, and that classic interior, really makes me sad for most cars today..
I had the i8 roadster as a Company Car in the UK for 3 years. I bought it from the local BMW dealer second hand, a year Old. One owner, just a few K miles. Big discount on new. Problem was I put too many miles on it. No faults or unscheduled days off road. Only expenses were tyres all round, front brake pads & discs. Looked great especially with the roof down. It was great learning curve from ICE to Hybrid. I got the Home Charger with Government Grant. Train myself to to plug it in every night. Left home in an ambient car with a full battery every morning. Gave me the confidence to go Full EV. So, I bought a second hand Porsche Taycan. Had it 16 months now. Big learning curve with charging regimes! The car itself is great will serve its purpose for the next few years! Would go back to ICE? Well, I've had 3phase 100Amps/phase fitted at home! What do you think?
Have fun paying all the taxes for your EV clownery...
Love this car! I've owned one for a bit and it still makes you feel special getting in and out of it. It is extremely comfortable on road trips and still turns heads. It's amazing how many people have never seen or even heard of this car.
Keep us updated on repair/service, I hear both good and bad things about these things. Those 3cyl mini engines are not so good sometimes.
Many thanks for this great review. I wanted an i8 ever since it launched. Bought a 2016 plate in calypso grey this July and I absolutely love it. A fantastic car, amazing looks, awesome drive, real head turner. So many people have commented on it. Why did I wait so long?? Best wishes from the UK 😊
Absolutely love that I8. They are a steal at 40 K, and definitely future classics. There’s no way they’re not gonna double in price in the next decade.
Maybe only roadsters will go up in price. There was a lot of coupes made and sold. Also, I wouldn't call $40k as a "steal price" lol
I always found the rear body styling fantastic on this car. The way the rear roof line and fender come together and create that aero channel that comes out over the tail light - just brilliant and beautiful. It's like the whole side of the car is a giant NACA duct. I wish this car was a BEV - I'd buy one.
It is a beauty, that’s for sure.
This design is the blueprint for an inexpensive and fast car with great mileage.
- Yes, it cost HUGE amounts of money when built. HOWEVER, these days the tech has improved. Today, a front ICE engine/rear electric drive PHEV vehicle could be much less expensive . . . Toyota uses this concept these days, but in a Toyota (efficient, reliable, not fast).
If a fast, efficient vehicle was available in the 50k range with better utility space, imagine how many vehicles that a manufacturer would likely sell!
Love that car, way ahead of it's time!!!
Great video, Roman . . . you delivery is so much better when you love a vehicle . . . sometimes you really over emphasize the negatives.
8:25 You know that you can program this on i.e. button No. 2, right? The preset buttons are not just for radio stations which makes it even more user friendly.
Yes correct i have it programed on mine. I only drive my i8 on hold state of charge.
The most beautiful i8 ever made was the AC Schnitzer version. The body kit and wheels they gave it made it look like a veritable spaceship. Reliable they are not blowing head gaskets and cracking windshields apparently to name a few expensive fixes but still a brilliant vehicle.
PHEVs are totally underrated. Clearly this one is the best. I have a 2021 Kia Niro SX PHEV and love it. Absolutely bland styling (opposite of i8), but super cool and fun to drive with fantastic gas mileage. Now, I just need to look for a used i8. 😜
I've owned a 2020 i3 since March - and agree that it and the i8 were well ahead of their time. Unfortunate that the manufacturing processes were, as far as I know, lost with the discontinuation of these models. Having a car weighing less than 3,330lbs is huge fun, and the styling language has aged well enough that it starts conversations every time I take it out.
I had an i3 and loved it. I don't think BMW calls it carbon fiber. It was carbon reinforced plastic.
Either way, it’s impossible to repair if damaged :(
@@Cloud30000 I agree as my insurance was cranked because of the high cost of repair
@@Cloud30000says who? Carbon fiber is just expensive fiberglass. You can fix it the same way you would do any boat hull.
I owned the little brother, an i3. for those that haven’t, watch the video on how it’s made, all carbon fiber, insane technology for 2014. I still miss it. My friend bought an i8 new, and running around San Diego it was hard to find a sports car that could keep up with it. The power band is so smooth and never hesitates all the way to 100mph+
Ive always loved this car, such a bargain, and incredibly beautiful. Thanks for bringing it some attention. I wonder if the values will start going up
10 years ago BMW cars looked amazing, today BMW's look, bad... Sad but true.
Ain’t that the truth. My god, what a fall from grace. They need to fire everyone in their design department and start over. It’s that bad.
Their best cars are still their best though. M2,m3,m4, x5m,x6m,m8 .. I even like the new m5 but I can def see it's not as good looking as the older f90.
@@G82Watts I dont agree, they are more expensive than the AMG and their tech is confusing, BMW is completly wrong about the car reality. Well, they sell, but they are selling overpriced crap for people that really dont care about driving or looks, they only care about status.
@@jonascampelo871 dude what? Bmw has been blowing audi and Mercedes away in every track and drag race. The b58 and s58 are the most renowned engines in the car community
@@G82Watts Real World, I drive in the real world, with very twisty roads, speed bumps and lots of cars around me. BMW no longer makes cars for the real world, thats a fact. Sad but true. I had two BMW's in the 90's and 2000's, amazing machines, great quality and great mileage, today BMW's are a joke, very expensive joke.
Amazing car im sitting in mine right now. Very low maintenance cost bar any major repairs. Seems to be dependable if you treat it well
Is there a post market larger battery to buy?
Would be great with a 100km range.
Agree! Old things are the best. Like ICE, B52, U2, F14, battleships etc
Super review from a UK owner of 4 years of a 2018 i8.👍
The most beautiful BMW ever in my opinion.
Ohhhh crap. Here we go gents!!! Prices are about to go up.
Remember the ISF??? Prices went up by about 20k on a used one.
Used to have an i8, did everything, best car for me in every way. Paid more than 130,000. Then people on the inter shit on it, especially on the mini engine. Knowing the fact it's not a supercar myself, but it does almost 7L/100 at sport mode is heaven to me. Almost 3L/100 when full charge, great daily drive aswell. Love it personally. Had to switch after having kid, because everybody shits on it, price drops like crazy, sold it at 68000. End story😢 lol still love this car 100% thou, fk what others say
An early BMW hybrid! What could possible go wrong? A BMW Mini 3cyl powerplant with all the complexity of 10-year-old BMW electronics. But it's so pretty!!
Seems to be working just fine!
@@AgonxOC For now! There are TWO separate cooling systems and each one is very complex and prone to issues. Overheating is common on these and youtubers like Samcrac and Pat's Garage can totally explain why it's often a nightmare to diagnose and fix. For a car to go up in value over time it has to not grenade itself!
@@fboomerang Very complex for those who do not understand how systems work. The issue of the modern car mechanic is the inability to diagnose system due to their lack of basic understanding of those systems.
Again nothing new, people just lack understanding of how things work.
Great review and what a great idea to buy one. I always loved the looks of it but agree a tough entry and exit especially for a 70 year old. I just bought a Tesla model 3 performance for about same amount after the tax credit. Wish I had seen this first.
You can go to Sam's Club - just don't buy in bulk! I just sold my Porsche Boxster - fun car, but not great in LA traffic. The i8 (kind of forgotten) seems like a perfect alternative for an "older gentleman" like me!
I will say, the last shot in the car park, Roman has already got the hang of the “park like a BMW driver” lifestyle 😂
True that because in an empty parking lot used for filming you must park the car between the lines like you’re at the busiest Trader Joe’s in America🤔
TFL used to swear that range rovers are the best 4wd vehicles bar none. This is sort of the same. The i8 and i3 are such software nightmares and so unique that every well known independent BMW shops in the SF Bay Area refuses to tackle major issues. Hybrid EV specialists also pass on attempting major repairs. The dealership experience is spending a $10k chunk every few days as they try to figure out the car. It’s also the one car rich rebuilds completely gave up on.
Exactly. These are good…until they’re not.
They’re a nightmare to work on.
I legitimately loved that cat when it came out
Aren’t the mini engines destined to fail because of plastic chain tensioners?
Respect, Roman, for this video.
This video brought to you by, BMW the ultimate driving experience.
From what I understand, the backseat in the I eight is actually roomier than the backseat of the 2+2 from Lotus.
Great, so you can fit 2 packs of gum back there 😅
This car should have been the Hallo car for BMW if done right. BMW should have debut the famous B58 3 liters straight 6 in this car
@TheRealCatof this engine has been proven to be reliable. My 2016 340i xdrive was bought after leased at 28k miles now 104k miles no problem whatsoever
@TheRealCatof to make matters worse I turned this car 4 months ago still robust
The current small engine works well with this car; combined with the motor, it has decent power and still remains light.
Dropping the EV powertrain to swap in the B58 would change the weight distribution significantly and make it a completely different car with much different driving characteristics. Might even make the 0-60 times slower since you have less weight and less grip on the rear tires.
@TheRealCatofwhat are you talking about? The N52 is still one of the most reliable engines BMW has ever produced.
@TheRealCatof Really? Why is my daily N52 at 230k miles? Only issue was plastic water pump replacement at 130k. My friends E92 M3 is at 156k, not a single issue. Not even the throttle actuators have gone out. My m3 is at 75k, so still relatively new but zero issues.
Check forums. N52’s over 400k miles, 200k+ is common. Guy on RUclips with an E9x M3 with close to 300k miles on it IIRC.
Educate yourself on the brand before you go spewing more fake news
I'm a forever fan of internal combustion, and hate full electric cars, for now. But I do think that this BMW is a perfect example of what should be on the market right now, until battery technology can properly compete. I just bought a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited with the H.O 4.7, and if I drive it normally and not like a jerk, it barely burns more fuel than my old anemic 2.5L, 4-banger manual 1998 Ford Ranger single cab.... And as also shown with the LS in Corvettes, V8s can actually be reasonnable on gas in everyday driving; now imagine that with that kind of hybrid tech!!!! Range, torque, and fuel economy!!!! I'd buy that right now instead of electric!!!!
I think the thumbnail " odd but true" is the reason why I was singing sad but true in my head the whole video
How long do battery’s hybrid cars last? If it’s just 10yrs then it’s not worth it
Always loved this car.
Remember when super car blondie had this as her first car on the channel
It does look new.
Can you add grab handles to the A-pillar to make entering and exiting it easier?
I wonder if these can get an updated battery swap with a newer tech battery (larger too?). It could then provide better speed, performance, range, and efficiency.
Love mine. Haters will hate but have they driven one? Exactly.
Roman, you hurt my back watching you getting out of the i8 😅. It's definitely a sweet collector item, though!
I know in the i3 they did a bunch of updates/improvements, I wonder if the i8 got those as well. In the i3 world the 2018+ are the ones to get. I wonder how it is with the i8. I also wonder if BMW offers a warranty on those if you go in and try to purchase one.
Absolute disastrous vehicle to own. All vehicles will eventually will need repairs and this will be a bankrupt vehicle if hits the service department at the dealer. Think of this vehicle like any 1980s Ferrari, it will cost you a fortune to service. What you save on gas on this BMW, you will spend X100 more on service. Software repairs and software issues will keep the vehicle at the dealership.
I was thinking the same - I hope Roman keeps it long-term and can share his personal experience
@@dansimmons21These guys are all part marketers that work for manufacturers. If they really care for people’s well being they will suggest to people to buy a Corolla and call it a day.
Have you had one? Or you're just guess-commenting?
@@CarazyDiamondyou haven’t owned one?
He cant as it will dry out his bank account faster then wife or girlfriend 😉👍, money wise its a reason why it cost over 100k when new..lets face it if you have spare 100k for 2nd 4th car..you not worry about 20k/year for service, parts and labour left in BMW dealership 😉👍@dansimmons21
You said that modern McLaren cars copied the performance and abilities of the 2015 BMW i8. However, you got that backwards because the McLaren P1 was produced from October 2013 - December 2015. Before the P1 hybrid cars like the Prius were boring and focused only on maximum gas milage. But McLaren created a car that allowed the driver to use only electric, only gas, or send power from both to the rear wheels at the same time for maximum performance. McLaren made hybrid cars exciting for the first time. The BMW i8 is a milder version of the McLaren P1. I had no interest in electric vehicles or hybrids until I saw a review of the P1 on "Top Gear" because the way McLaren combined the transaxle, inverter, and electric motor into a single unit was a mechanical work of art. Even though the drivetrain components under the car will never be seen they are aestheticly beautiful. I spent hours looking at pictures of the P1 drivetrain components like it was a sculpture in a museum. After that I started researching electric/hybrid technology because McLaren showed that you didn't have to choose performance or fuel economy and in the future you could have both in a fun/exciting vehicle.
McLaren didn't really "create" the type. The Porsche 918 and LaFerrari came out at the same time and were also performance focused hybrids. Top gear or the grand tour did a three car comparison and the McLaren finished third, weird considering the McLaren was the only english car.
@rmarevalo I have no interest in Ferrari or Porsche. The reason I liked the McLaren was that it was a rear wheel drive car. I know that all wheel drive is better for certain situations, but rear wheel drive is more fun. Unless you are racing these cars on a track then first place or third place is meaningless. I like the mechanical design of McLaren cars from the chassis to the way they route fluid lines. New cars are all about taking control away from the driver in the name of safety, which is why I have no interest in modern cars. The P1 sent all the horsepower/torque to the rear wheels, creating a fast and terrifying hybrid car. Companies like Hennessey don't create high horsepower cars in the name of safety but for driver enjoyment and thrills. I respect any technology (internal combustion or hybrid) that gives the driver full control and allows you to take it to the ragged edge.
Does it still smell like gasoline when you first get in? Just a hint of it?
I considered one of these before I bought my 911, but the complexity scared me away. Plus I don't think my mechanic would want to work on one 😅
What was your take on battery risk? It seems like dropping 50 grand on a car whose battery is out of warranty is a big risk. I'm guessing its not cheap to replace/repair. Do you know if there is any way to circumvent it, to use petrol only of the drive battery fails?
Great video, what is the range of the battery now over when it was new?
Nice review. I have my i8 over 2 years. I adore it. Your 100% right above the idrive. Its a pleasure to use. When my car was getting serviced they gave me a brand new bmw and the new idrive is awful. All touch screen and over completed. I8 has everything you need with out being completed with buttons. I daily drive mine and i still enjoy it the same way as when i bought it. The excitement did not wear off for me. Have a full titanium exhaust which makes it sound a lot better.
Can you charge it with a regular outlet and if so, how long would it take to fully charge? Thanks.
What’s an alternative exotic looking car that can be had under 85k? Love the doors on these
thats why im driving my 2017 protonic red. This car is so goood. Also i upgrade it with apple car play and thats it.
What's the replacement cost on a bmw battery?
Higher than car
Good luck servicing it....a lot of dealers won't even touch it.
Really?!?! never heard of a dealer who didn’t love making money.
Don't get me wrong the i8 is a lovely vehicle but I just bought an i3 black-and-white panda and it is absolutely far more I think stylish more room more practical 0 to 60 and 2.9 seconds has the Rex motor at the back gets a combined range of 380 km ...charges in 2 1/2 hours fit two adults in the back easily definitely check out the i3's ... lot less maintenance cost far less moving parts all of Electric the small 9 L gas tank ...
From what I have read, the i8 is eye candy and thats where it all ends. It doesn't have a good track record and that comes from many sources.
Which sources? I have had one for 7 years and it has been great. On the i8 forum, there are very few major problems reported.
@@michaelc2254 Agree. I have owned a 2019 i8 Roadster for 2 years now. Best, most enjoyable car I've ever owned. No problems whatsoever. You will never own a car that gets more attention. It's insane how interested people are in looking and talking about it where ever I go. Don't mind what Markcollins says above. It is overstated criticism.
SPOILER. this car is about $50,000. it's not until 13:55 that its price is mentioned.
All I can think about Rich Rebuilds video where I think the key fob died or the 12v died and it was a nightmare to get moving again. I think the i3 is a better buy
Thanks for the review Roman. It's a beautiful car. I have never seen one here in Longmont but it sounds like Sam's Club is the place to look :).
You are right!
They sell for around 50k used. For that kind of money, you could get used Tesla Plaid that is only 2 years old though not a hybrid, can give you 1000hp
One day when you get a little older and it's cold and rainy outside you will understand and appreciate the easy of ingres and engres of a dinky hybrid SUV that flies below the radar... But between now and then enjoy 😊
I never liked BMWs but I would buy this one. Maybe someday I will but right now I can only afford a Skoda 105L ☹️.
I owned an i3. It was a great car. Not perfect. But it was special and fun.
This car looks awesome!!
If I have to take unreliability I’ll keep my 24 4XE Wrangler Willys 😅
It looks great! I do shudder at BMWs terrible reliability as they age though, more so with a complicated system like that.
People try to look and ask “what is it?”
The vest hybrids are toyotas
I don’t like wearing vest hybrids
An i3 was made from the same stuff but cost 1/3 of the price so it's crazy price if because they wanted to make money and it looks like a sports car so they can get away with charging that much.
I agree with you. Although looking for 2nd hand ones in Aus they're still at least $100k. Too much for me.
BMWs are beautiful vehicles and fun to drive. However, you will probably need mental health counseling as soon as you see how much they depreciate and the emergency room if it need to have any type of repairs.😢
They don't depreciate much further when they are already 9 years old (no car does really), repairs though...yeah, that's a different matter.
Low mileage models are about half of the original sticker. It's the repairs that bleed you white.
@@weirdshibainu Yup, although that's not nearly exclusive to the BMW. Pretty much all modern expensive cars are also expensive to maintain.
@@HenrySomeone Yeah. Try owning an audi
That’s why you buy them AFTER they depreciate and get a good deal; avoid models with low reliability, but this one is an exception in that it has quality components that are mostly shared and thus reasonably serviceable. Just don’t get into a minor fender bender, as any damage to the body is impossible to repair and totals the car.
Have u done the gas loop or did I miss that video?
Whats the price on these.... I've managed to reach the age of 40 without kids and without wife 😅
About $50k for the oldest ones if you are patient and avoid the those asking too much.
@@Cloud30000Even at that price it’s such a waste. Rather have a Jaguar F Type R
Get a Porsche
I am selling mine in CA. Let me know if you're interested.
Wish they refresh the i8 with the i4 drivetrain and going fully electric
Jeremy Clarkson also loved the i8.
It is a brilliant buy imo.
Good decision, enjoy.
I dont think they are asking you what it is because it timeless, its probably more like they've never seen one before. The front end looks old already. Now the rest of the car is fantastioc.
These cars are pretty cool but if I were to buy a used 4 seat PHEV that’s sporty I’d go for a 2018 Porsche Panamera 4 Ehybrid
One of the BEST cars BMW made. I don't understand why in the heck they stop selling it.
Everyone says it's a mini engine lol truth is it's the i8 engine but they liked it so they then put it in the mini as well
It takes a lot for me to forget about a car ..... And I legitimately forgot about the I8... Ahead of it's time, sure... It's just a shame it didn't have a turbo 6.
Still confused why my PP 2020 VW GTI beat this thing off the line over and over. Help me out. I wasn’t even trying.
Maybe a tuned golf R
I asked the guy driving the i8 if he was playing me. He said he wasn’t. I’m in a stock mk7.5 GTI. 😂
Going to be worth a ton in future.
People ask you what make is your car because you live in Colorado, they won’t ask you in Miami Fl, that car is nice but 14 years old. Come to Miami and check out the cars😮