$161000
Vehicle Summary
The 2015 BMW i8 is a hybrid sports car powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-three combined with three electric motors for a combined output of 357 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is linked to the turbo-three and the front electric motor is paired to a two-speed automatic. The car can travel up to 15 miles using electric-only power, while its gas-only fuel economy is 28/29 mpg city/highway.
Overview
Performance is one of the 2015 BMW i8's strong points. It offers quick acceleration that matches cars like the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Edition 507 thanks to the combination of the turbo inline-three and three electric motors. Handling is excellent because of the car's carbon-fiber tub, low center of gravity, near-perfect weight distribution, and rigid chassis, but the i8 doesn't sacrifice ride quality in favor of all-out performance. Refinement, however, is a weak point because the carbon-fiber tub contributes to road noise, especially on less than perfect surfaces. Interior design is futuristic and features supportive seats and modern gauges to complement the car's bold exterior. Fit and finish inside the car isn't as good as in other BMWs due to the use of hard plastics, detracting from the cabin's modern feel. Trunk space is puny at 4.7 cubic feet.