2020 BMW i8

Price Estimate: $52,771 - $68,249

Average

The 2020 BMW i8 is a unique and deeply interesting car on many levels. From its construction to its powertrain and even the ease at which you can explore its considerable limits, the i8 can be a very satisfying drive. But when not charging around, or charging up at home, the i8 can feel clumsy. Driving in slow-moving traffic highlights most of the i8's deficiencies.

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Appraise My 2020 BMW i8

Pros

Excellent integration of powertrain and in-car technology
Head-turning futuristic design
Unique powertrain and limited production guarantee exclusivity

Cons

Performance-wise, it lags competitors
Difficult to get in and out of
Few available advanced driving aids
Powertrain is a little unrefined for the price

Overview

Written by automotive expert Travis Langness

5/28/2020

The 2020 BMW i8 seemingly has all of the prerequisites for supercar status. It has funky flip-up doors that are hard to operate. It's made from carbon fiber. Inside, you'll find high-end materials everywhere, with an options list that includes materials such as ivory white perforated leather. Heck, you can even get the i8 with lasers for headlights. But there's one aspect that's very different from most of the supercars on sale today: The i8 is a hybrid.

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BMW i8 PHEV Insights

Trim:

i8 Base

All Electric Range

EPA Estimated Range not available

Charging

No charging time information available

EV Battery Warranty

No battery warranty information available

EV Tax Credits & Rebates

No rebates available in 20147

Cost to Drive

$175/mo

$231/mo

Car Avg.

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

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Rather than using a supercharged V8 or a sonorous V12, the BMW i8 is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, paired with an electric motor and an 11.6-kWh battery, all hooked up to all-wheel drive. That's right, the i8 is a plug-in hybrid. It puts out 369 horsepower with that hybrid powertrain, which makes it relatively quick, and it has an EPA-estimated 18 miles of all-electric range.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Average

7.5

out of 10

We drove the 2020 BMW i8 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

7.5/10

How does the i8 drive? The BMW i8 has exotic styling and the performance to back it up ... mostly. Acceleration is quick as long as you've got the car placed in Sport mode. In our testing, the i8 sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. In the other driving modes, it becomes more ordinary. It's also worth mentioning that a lot of other performance cars these days are quicker still.

The i8 can seem clumsy in city traffic because of its grabby brakes and noticeable transition from electric to gasoline engine power. It's just not a particularly smooth car to drive. Out on the open road, the i8 is more fun to drive. The car's handling limits are easily approachable, even if they are a bit modest.

Comfort

8/10

How comfortable is the i8? From the outside, the i8's sleek styling might make you think it's a car that will take quite the commitment to put up with. The seats, too, look uncomfortable. But looks can be deceiving since the i8 offers comfortable seating (for two, anyway) and, at least as performance cars go, a reasonably compliant and smooth ride quality.

There's not much wind noise, but the road noise more than makes up for it. It's constant, especially on the highway. To drown it out, you'll have to crank up the sound system. We do like the climate control system. The A/C is strong, and there are plenty of air vents.

Interior

7.5/10

How’s the interior? The simplicity of the i8's interior can, at first, be underappreciated. BMW has kept the controls basic, and anyone who has spent any time in a BMW over the past 10 years will immediately be comfortable interacting with the i8. The interior is not as space-age as the exterior, but that's just fine by us. You can just concentrate on the fun part: driving. The driving position is excellent and caters to a variety of body types. Forward visibility is excellent.

Getting in and out is something you'll either look forward to or dread. The upward-opening doors are easy to open and close. But getting in requires a bit of a slide down, and climbing out can't really be done gracefully. But if you just think the doors look cool, it's probably worth the effort.

Technology

6.5/10

How’s the tech? The i8's older iDrive system might not offer the flash of a newer competitor's interface, but it certainly gets the job done. Navigation is quick to use and easy to read on the road, and the audio system does a good job of getting loud while maintaining clarity and balance.

The i8 falls short on other fronts, especially in this price range. Android Auto isn't supported, and even Apple CarPlay requires a subscription after a free one-year trial. The i8 is also lacking in some now nearly ubiquitous driver aids such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and high-speed emergency braking. You do get forward collision warning and low-speed emergency braking. Thankfully, both of those systems are not overly sensitive.

Storage

6.5/10

How’s the storage? No one's going to accuse the i8 of being overly practical, but it can function as a daily driver thanks to its efficient use of cargo space. Three grocery bags can fit in its 4.7 cubic feet of trunk space. That's less than what you get from an Audi R8 or Mercedes AMG GT but more than the Acura NSX.

The i8 benefits from having back seats no matter how impractical they might be. They do double duty as an interior storage shelf for larger items such as backpacks and jackets. There's even a bit of storage in the center console — just don't expect it to hold more than a phone, charging cables and some sunglasses.

Fuel Economy

8/10

How’s the fuel economy? The BMW i8 has some decent green-car credentials, with an EPA-estimated 18 miles of all-electric range and then 27 mpg in combined city/highway driving once the battery is depleted. Our test car lived up to those estimates with most tanks of fuel returning north of 27 mpg. And even after 15-mile stints at highway speeds, it still had another 5 miles or so of full electric range.

Like any plug-in hybrid, how and where you drive, and how often you plug in to recharge, can greatly affect efficiency. As for recharging the hybrid battery, it takes about three hours using a Level 2 charger. Using a standard 120-volt household outlet will take about eight hours.

Value

8/10

Is the i8 a good value? Probably the most controversial piece of the i8 might be the price. Starting at nearly $150,000, the i8 is in the same price range as the Acura NSX, Audi R8 and Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe. All have oodles more speed and performance. But comparing them dollar for dollar would almost miss the point of the i8.

The i8's interior materials aren't anything special, but the actual quality of construction is excellent. The exposed carbon-fiber tub is visible everywhere and just looks so cool. What you see is not done for effect, and BMW had every right to show it off.

Wildcard

8.5/10

It's quite easy to say "wow, cool!" when checking out the BMW i8. From the styling details to the upward-opening doors to the readily visible carbon-fiber tub, the i8 is chock full of uniqueness. All of that coolness is amplified once you get behind the wheel thanks in no small part to how comfortable and easy to use everything is. It's a future classic for sure.

For sale near Ashburn, VA

5 listings

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2019 BMW i8
Base Coupe
$69,950
- 50,650 miles
- 18 mi est. electric range
- 3cyl automatic
- 48 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Baltimore, MD
This stunning 2019 BMW i8 Coupe is the ultimate fusion of supercar styling and futuristic hybrid performance. Finished in the rare, upgraded Crystal W...
Features and Specs:
27 Combined MPG (26 City/29 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
WBY2Z4C57KVB81957
Stock:
1957
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
09-12-2026
2015 BMW i8
Base Coupe
$38,444
- 67,890 miles
- 3cyl automatic
- 18 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Upgraded Headlights
Close
Located in Fairfax, VA
Features and Specs:
28 Combined MPG (N/A City/N/A Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
WBY2Z2C54FV391570
Stock:
ABS6631
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
01-30-2024

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2020 BMW i8 trim level differences

The 2020 BMW i8 is available in a single trim level offered as either a coupe or a soft-top convertible. The i8 Coupe features 2+2 seating, while the i8 Roadster subs out the seats in exchange for the roof mechanism. Both models use the same plug-in hybrid powertrain that produces a combined 369 horsepower. A turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission power the rear wheels, and an electric motor drives the front wheels through a two-speed automatic transmission. Compare the 2020 BMW i8 trim levels in-depth.

Which i8 trim does Edmunds recommend?

Since the i8 is only available in a single trim level, your choices are limited. You can go with the coupe or convertible depending on your taste, and there are several interior packages and a few choices for wheels to choose from — otherwise, most of the selection is done for you.

BMW i8 Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.3

11 reviews

5(73%)

4(9%)

3(0%)

2(9%)

1(9%)

See all 11 reviews of the BMW i8

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Unique and Misunderstood

Thomas H., 06/30/2022

2019 BMW i8 2dr Convertible AWD (1.5L 3cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 6A)

I have now owned the i8 for seven months which for me is quite unusual. Typically, I grow tired of a vehicle after just a few months. This car has been different. I still go into my garage just to look at it and admire its styling. I really like owning a vehicle that is unique and that is rarely seen, and that is very true of the i8, especially my roadster model. So far, it has been …

Absolutely amazing experience into the future

Jim K, 09/06/2018

2019 BMW i8 2dr Convertible AWD (1.5L 3cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 6A)

I have been driving my i8 roadster for a month. What an experience! The handling has been much improved and extended battery certainly makes more sense now. Fit and finish has been stepped up and at he top in super car range. I find performance more than adequate. Other cars achieve better acceleration because of launch control. In daily driving no one uses launch control anyway; i8 …

Piece of Automotive History

Jstew, 03/06/2022

2019 BMW i8 2dr Convertible AWD (1.5L 3cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 6A)

The I8 what some may feel is a “douche car” so either people want a photo of it, gawk at it or literally think you are a yuppie or muscle car guys think you are a fool cause it’s not 550hp. The reality is it’s gorgeous looking. It drives and handles well. It’s fun in Sport Mode which helps recharge the battery to mitigate having to plug it in as often. It’s unique and you can say that …

Very Underwhelming

Atlanta, 10/11/2020

2020 BMW i8 2dr Convertible AWD (1.5L 3cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 6A)

Given that this vehicle has so much style, the technology that is available and the pleasure to drive it is very underwhelming. The i8 is a very comfortable riding vehicle (5-Stars), but beyond the ride and sleek style, the 5-Stars end there. There are none of the newest features like blind spot detection, etc. that are both needed (this care has a lot of blind spots) but would be …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 BMW i8, so we've included reviews for other years of the i8 since its last redesign.

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2020 i8 Features & Specs

Type:

Coupe

Est. Market Value	$54,103
EV Tax Credits & Rebates	No rebates available in 20147
Engine Type	Plug-in hybrid
EPA Electric Range	18 miles
Combined MPGe (Electric + Gas)	69 MPGe
Cost to Drive	$175/month
Total Charging Time (240V)	3.0 hours
Seating	4 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	4.7 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

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Reliability

The 2020 BMW i8 has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and no recalls.

Recalls

There are no recalls for the 2020 BMW i8

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Hybrid component Warranty: 8 years / 100,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 12 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 4 years / unlimited miles
Free maintenance Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles

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BMW i8
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Safety

Our experts like the i8 models:

ConnectedDrive Services: Lets you know about traffic and parking spots and, in case of accidents, can connect you to BMW's Accident Assistance for vehicle support.
BMW Laserlight: Helps drivers see farther down dark roads with advanced laser projection technology.
Active Driving Assistant: Warns of potential front collisions with vehicles or pedestrians and if the i8 is about to leave its lane.

FAQ

Is the BMW i8 a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2020 i8 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.5 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2020 i8 gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 11 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the i8 has 4.7 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a BMW i8. Learn more

Is the BMW i8 reliable?

To determine whether the BMW i8 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the i8. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the i8's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2020 BMW i8 a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2020 BMW i8 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2020 i8 and gave it a 7.5 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2020 i8 gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 11 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2020 i8 is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2020 BMW i8?

The least-expensive 2020 BMW i8 is the 2020 BMW i8 2dr Coupe AWD (1.5L 3cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $147,500.

Other versions include:

2dr Coupe AWD (1.5L 3cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 6A) which starts at $147,500

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What are the different models of BMW i8?

If you're interested in the BMW i8, the next question is, which i8 model is right for you? i8 variants include 2dr Coupe AWD (1.5L 3cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 6A). For a full list of i8 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more