BMW i8

The BMW i8 is a four-seat coupé produced from 2014 onwards, powered by a three-cylinder petrol engine displacing 1,499 cm³ with 170 kW output. The vehicle measures 4,689 mm in length and has a kerb weight of 1,569 kg. In Norway, new registrations totalled 30 units across 2019 and 2020, with registrations declining from 19 in 2019 to 11 in 2020.
| Manufacturer | BMW |
|---|---|
| Production | From 2014 |
| Body type | Coupé |
| Fuel | Plug-in hybrid (petrol) |
| Engine power | 170 kW (228 hp) |
| CO₂ (WLTP) | 49 g/km |
| Kerb weight | 1,560 kg |
| Displacement | 1,500 cc |
| Cylinders | 3 |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive |
| Fuel economy (comb.) | 8.4 l/100 km |
Engine power, CO₂ and kerb weight are registration-weighted averages across the 1 European country that registered the BMW i8 in 2025 (1 cars). Source: EEA CO₂ monitoring (CC BY 4.0).
New registrations in Norway
Number of BMW i8 registered for the first time in Norway per year.
Source: EEA CO₂ monitoring (CC BY 4.0).
Other BMW models
Similar Coupé models
Common problems & reliability
US owners have filed 1 complaints for the BMW i8, most often about electrical system. These are owner-reported issues, useful for spotting recurring weaknesses before you buy. In the UK, 91% of BMW i8s pass their MOT test first time, based on 2,292 inspections in 2023. (2023 is the most recent annual release published by the DfT.)
Based on real owner complaints and inspection data — not an editorial rating. Sources: NHTSA (US, public domain), DVSA MOT (UK, Open Government Licence).
Recalls & safety
1 recall recorded in the EU Safety Gate (European market) and 2 in the US-market NHTSA database for the BMW i8. Recalls can flag known weaknesses of the model.
- Passenger carEU · Safety Gate (Germany)
Due to a manufacturing fault, the Hydro Unit Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) function could be impaired. The dynamic stability of the vehicle might be affected adversely in critical driving situations.
EU Safety Gate · alerted 2016-01-22
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERYUS · NHTSAModel year 2020
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 530e iPerformance and X3 xDrive30e and MINI Cooper Countryman All4 SE, 2020 BMW i8, and 2021 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le xDrive and X5 xDrive45e vehicles. Debris may have entered one or more of the hybrid battery cells during their production.
Remedy: BMW will inspect and, if necessary, replace the battery module free of charge. The remedy is currently being developed. Until the remedy is completed, drivers are instructed to not charge their vehicles. Drivers are instructed to not drive in manual mode, sport mode, and to not use the shift paddles. Owners were notified of the safety risk October 23, 2020. The recall began November 24, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 20V601000 · reported 30/09/2020
- ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)US · NHTSAModel year 2015
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2015 i8 vehicles manufactured May 29, 2015, to June 5, 2015. Improperly drilled holes within the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) hydraulic unit may restrict one or more pistons impairing the DSC functions, including braking.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the DSC hydraulic unit, and replace if necessary, free of charge. The recall began on February 8, 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 15V882000 · reported 28/12/2015
Sources: EU Safety Gate (European market) and NHTSA (US market). See all BMW recalls.
Frequently asked questions
- How much power does the BMW i8 have?
- The BMW i8 produces 170 kW (228 hp).
- How much does the BMW i8 weigh?
- The BMW i8 has a kerb weight of about 1,560 kg.
- What are the CO2 emissions of the BMW i8?
- The BMW i8 emits 49 g/km of CO2 (WLTP).