DRIVEN: Is The BMW i8 TRUE To The BMW Experience? Still The Ultimate Driving Machine?

Here we go. One of the BMW i8's first reviews has hit the web and we get to hear all about it. And, coming from a reputable reviewer like CAR, we actually expect this to be pretty accurate to the real deal.

Though the i8 isn't going to be a cash cow for the Bavarians, it represents the future of BMW and I wager it will be the car that helps dictate what the driving dynamics of future BMWs become. That's because in a world where stricter C02 and mpg requirements exist, this technology will filter down into mainstream products.

You know it, I know it, everyone knows it.

So, strap in and get ready to read about the future. Buckle up, it'll be one helluva a ride.

Just to whet your appetite I've included two interesting snippets from CAR. Make sure to read the FULL piece by clicking "Read Article" below! Though it may seem a bit rosy so far, just wait until you get to the part where the i8 goes into "limp mode."

...Although the batteries are almost depleted, we try one last full throttle acceleration manoeuvre, this time with DTC on for just a little bit of slip. The sticky though relatively narrow Bridgestones (195/50 and 215/40) shriek briefly as the car takes off in jump-start fashion, first pulling then pushing, the back chasing the front, relentlessly gaining momentum. Somehow, this feels like riding an accordion as it extends and contracts. And in the background, the tyres intermittently wail, the e-motor hisses, the petrol engine growls, and the computerised brain orchestrates the antics. No, this is definitely not your old man’s BMW...

...Innovative, pace-setting, radically different, the i8 is remarkable. In its performance and handling, it feels every inch a typical BMW, despite using technology – carbonfibre, electrification – well outside the company’s comfort zone. It takes something special to hit the bull’s eye in two contrasting areas. But the i8’s green footprint is every bit as impressive as the black tyre tracks the enthusiast driver can also leave behind.

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Dexter1 - 3/29/2014 9:47:15 PM

+5 Boost

BMW hasn't been the Ultimate Driving Machine for about 10 years now. I have 3 BMWs in my garage, so I'm not a hater. I just wish they'd get back to the business of making great sports sedans.

Terry989 - 3/29/2014 10:55:13 PM

+2 Boost

I have to agree with you on this one. I also have a BMW in my garage, just as I have for 20 years of driving now. When they penned the term "The Ultimate Driving Machine", they actually were, now a better marketing term would "The Most Luxurious American Pony Car". I criticize BMW because I want them to do better. I have never understood those people who blindly follow a brand believing every model that brand makes is the 2nd coming of Christ.

Now my BMW's are for my wife, and I have moved on to Porsche as my daily drivers until BMW once again realizes that car handling and driving dynamics are as important as 0-60 times and luxury amenities. I also criticize Porsche for many of their choices, but if you value handling, driving dynamics and super cars that are fantastic daily drivers - - - there are not many other choices.

85bmw745i - 3/30/2014 2:55:16 AM

+1 Boost

I agree, BMW was at one time my favorite non-exotic brand, now it seems Cadillac has become the new BMW. gasp! can't believe I said that, as I used to hate Cadillac with a passion. The engineers need to get behind the wheel of the e30 and e36 M3, and the E34 M5 and learn what the real ultimate driving machine feels and drives like. i'm honestly not looking seriously at any newer cars other than for the wife, as they have become too fat and overly complex to where they don't feel like cars. While not fast, I do enjoy our Passat TDI. pretty fun for a mainstream family sedan. While its no sports sedan, it is a far cry from its competitors. All in all, my e34 was my favorite car when it came to comfort and driving dynamics. My e30 is a blast to toss around, and my e23 745i turbo running 15psi of boost from the stock turbo is very fast (stock hp is 252 at 6psi) I am getting almost 400hp to the rear wheels and almost 500lb/ft torque. The only newer BMW's that interest my now are the M135i, the Z4 M coupe. the M5 with its screaming V10 is great aside from being heavy and too isolated although I still sometimes really want one. When I bought my LR3 I almost went for an e53 X5 4.8is but it smoked and the wife loved the smooth ride of the LR3. I liked the of road capabilities myself. I'd love an e53 X5 4.8is with a 6 spd manual.

JDMUSMuscle - 3/30/2014 3:08:03 PM

+1 Boost

BMW and Mercedes both have already lost the touch a long time ago. And Audi....well, it never was that good.

Which is why I believe Lexus and Infiniti will do amazingly against them in the future.

M5_2010 - 3/31/2014 12:16:59 PM

+1 Boost

I left BMW about 10 years ago... They are going after a different clientele as their sales continue to improve. They are no longer the ultimate driving machine...

clams - 3/31/2014 1:56:45 PM

+1 Boost

**ding-a-ling**

"Look, Daddy. Teacher says, every time a bell rings a secretary gets her 3-series!"

40flash - 3/31/2014 10:54:42 PM

+1 Boost

The car business is a money business. All of them are interested in maximizing profit. They all have a target market. BMW is simply building what they perceive the market demands. All cars are a compromise. Even the 911. It was originally built because Porsche perceived that they would sell more of them if it had a back seat that young successful families could put their small children in. they knew at the time it wasn't the best layout for driving dynamics. They have done probably the best job ever in compensating for a less than optimal design but it is a compromise. I'd love to see them put all the 911 parts in a Cayman. That would be closer to a no compromise driver's car.

joecamel - 4/1/2014 12:06:15 PM

+1 Boost

It only has 2 pedals.