BMW i8 Hero

Used BMW i8

A truly striking plug-in hybrid sports car that looks like a concept or supercar. BMW i8 is a tempting used car for sure

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Used BMW i8 for sale 

Sports car or supercar? Whatever classification the BMW i8 falls into, one thing everyone seems to agree on is just how stunning and futuristic the car looks.

Launched in 2014, the BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid, meaning it can be driven on purely electric power for up to 34 miles, which is crazy considering its supercar looks and performance. It also features a petrol engine boosting range and performance too; more on that later.

Like many used cars, the BMW i8 has many pros and the odd con. But let's concentrate on the pros for now, which include:

  • Stunning supercar looks
  • Clever hybrid tech
  • Epic performance
  • BMW badge kudos
  • Surprisingly economical

Discover more about why the BMW i8 could be a great choice, when choosing your next used car below.

Engines and Driving Experience

BMW i8 Front

For a car that looks like the BMW i8, you'd probably expect a V8 or maybe even something a little larger lurking in the engine bay. However, the i8 comes complete with a surprisingly humble three-cylinder, 1.5-litre petrol engine, producing a conservative 228bhp.

And when you take into account the BMW i8 can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in just 4.4 seconds, you have to wonder how the 1.5-litre engine can deliver such performance. Of course, this is where the electric tech comes in, as accompanying the engine is an electric motor, which adds a further 129bhp, bringing the total output to 357bhp.

In 2019 a striking Roadster was added to the i8 model range, along with an updated Coupé version too. These came with fractionally more power totalling 369bhp, but delivered near-identical performance, although the heavier roadster took a fraction longer to go from 0 to 62mph, taking 4.6 seconds.

No matter which i8 you get behind the wheel of, you're sure to experience typical BMW sports car performance. Therefore, steering is positive and the car is beautifully dynamic and gives lots of feedback. You can alter the car's character depending on mood too, with Eco Pro, Comfort and Sport.

Practicality and Running Costs

BMW i8 Pair

It's back to business as usual for this sports car in terms of practicality. The i8 may surprise in terms of powertrain, but there is no Tardis-like boot space that's for sure.

Access to the car is very dramatic, as the doors open in a dihedral fashion, meaning getting in and out the car is certainly rather flamboyant. And although BMW describe the i8 as a 2+2, a pair of adults will be fine upfront, but the rear seats are only really good enough for children, especially with the supercar-like roofline.

At 152 litres, the boot can accommodate a weekly shop for those who will make it fit, but you'll more than likely use the back seats also.

As for running costs, 128mpg is possible, but in reality you'll see more like 40mpg if used like a sports car. Still, it's not bad for a car that will undoubtedly turn heads for fun. Servicing can be carried out at any Evans Halshaw retailer, although any Stratstone retailer would be a great recommendation for those looking for more specialist care.

Interior, Technology and Safety

BMW i8 Interior

With stunning exterior looks, the i8 doesn't look out of place parked next to more exclusive exotic supercars. The same goes for the interior, which is smart, futuristic and typically BMW. Therefore, a digital instrument cluster is joined by a crisp and clear central infotainment screen.

The interior also features blue detailing, signifying the i8's electric nature. Tech is impressive too, as is the case with most BMW models and therefore includes:

  • Apple Carplay connectivity
  • DAB
  • BMW ConnectedDrive
  • Head-up display
  • Heated seats
  • Parking sensors
  • Climate control

As for safety, Euro NCAP have never crash-tested the i8 due to its exclusivity. But with a carbon fibre body and features such as laser lights, stability control, collision warning, high-beam assist, pedestrian detection and a rear view camera, the i8 should offer plenty of protection in the event of an accident, or avoiding one.

Is the BMW i8 right for me?

With a six figure RRP, early BMW i8s are now available at around a third of their original price. This makes them superb value for money when you take into account their overall wow factor.

Supercar looks and performance are joined by economy you'd normally find in a family hatchback like a Ford Focus, or even a diesel mile muncher if you drive the i8 gently.

The BMW i8 is a supercar/sports car that can be used everyday with ease, and for that reason you shouldn't ignore the textbook sports car; the Porsche 911, although these don't have hybrid functionality like the BMW. Other hybrid supercars/sports cars are ultra-expensive, sometimes costing seven figures so if you want a high-tech hybrid supercar alternative, the BMW i8 is well worth a look.

Why purchase a used BMW i8 through Evans Halshaw?

Find your ideal used car with Evans Halshaw

At Evans Halshaw, we have a variety of used cars for you to choose from. Each car is carefully selected by our teams before making its way through the rigorous preparation process, where it's inspected by a qualified technician and then fully valeted.

All our vehicles are fully HPI checked, giving you peace of mind when making a decision. In addition, we're able to offer Home Delivery to UK mainland addresses, giving you flexibility when searching for your next car.

We're also able to offer you a tailored Service Plan for your selected car, which allows you to spread the cost of maintenance over an agreed period of time, whilst saving you money in the process.

If you'd like some advice on picking the right car for you, or you've spotted a vehicle and want more information, please contact your nearest Evans Halshaw dealership, where one of our friendly associates will be more than happy to help.