The development of the next i8 is set to represent a significant performance improvement on the current BMW i8.
What’s New, Price, Performance and Interior
The 2026 BMW i8 is a futuristic plug-in hybrid sports car that combines stunning design, exhilarating performance, and eco-friendly technology. The new model comes with a price tag of $160,000 and is expected to go up to $180,000 depending on the trim and options.
Engine, Transmission and Performance
The i8’s plug-in hybrid powertrain is anticipated to follow the same basic setup as the current i8. The setup consists of electric motors driving the front wheels and a mid-mounted gasoline engine and rear-wheel motor driving the rear wheels. The engine of the i8 is a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine and the combined power of the gas and electric motors produces 591 horsepower.
Range, Charging and Battery Life
The electric driving range of the BMW Vision M Next Concept, the basis for the new i8, was claimed to be 62 miles. This is achieved by the compact 11.6 kWh battery pack. More information will be updated once available.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA has not done tests yet on the i8 M, but its fuel consumption is not expected to be very high. The i8 will likely offer decent fuel economy ratings for a sports car.
Interior, Comfort, Cargo and Infotainment Connectivity
The i8’s cabin will be equipped with futuristic styling, unique materials, cutting-edge features, and eye-popping design. The doors are designed to be hinged and lower on the sides so that they can be more accessible from the inside of the i8.
On the infotainment front, BMW has not provided much information yet, but we will be the first to update you once available.
On the cargo front, the space will be limited and located in the front, as the rear is occupied by the engine and the battery.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The i8 is equipped with advanced driver assistance features, including: an autonomous driving system that will consist of key functions such as automated emergency braking and pedestrian detection, standard lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, and available adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode.
