2020 BMW i8

Pros: Fuel economy; ride/handling combination; acceleration

Cons: Entry/exit; visibility; cargo space

CG Says: The 2020 BMW i8 gains a limited-production Ultimate Sophisto Edition, but is otherwise unchanged for what is expected to be the i8’s final model year. The i8 is BMW’s plug-in-hybrid supercar. The BMW i8 is powered by a small (but extremely powerful with 228 horsepower) turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine and an electric motor for a combined 3690 hp. The gas engine drives the rear wheels while the electric motor drives the front wheels. The i8 coupe is capable of 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds and the roadster does it 4.4 seconds. Both have a top speed of 155. While these figures aren’t quick for an exotic sports car, they are impressive when taken in account that the i8 is EPA rated at 69 MPGe or 27 mpg combined city/highway with gas only. The i8 can travel up to 18 miles on electric power alone. The roadster is a 2-seater and the coupe has a small back seat. Available features include laser headlights (said to be brighter than LED headlights, but use less power), head-up instrument display, and surround-view cameras. The i8 handles well and also rides comfortably for a sports car. In spite of its scissor doors, the i8 is hard to enter or exit. The coupe’s small rear seat is best used for storage—especially since there is little cargo room or interior storage. The i8 doesn’t compare well with similarly priced sports cars, but those cars lack the i8’s green factor. If you want to help save the earth and have a little fun in the process, the i8 could be the car for you.