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2017 BMW i8: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2017 BMW i8 was largely a carryover, with no major mechanical, safety, tech, or structural updates. The main change was the limited Protonic Red Edition, which added unique color and trim details.
About the 2017 BMW i8
First generation (2014-2020), 2017 coupe before the larger 2019 battery and power update.
BMW positioned the i8 as a sustainable sports car: exotic looks and sports-car proportions, but with plug-in hybrid power and the ability to handle short local drives on electricity alone. What set it apart was not raw speed, but the blend of carbon-fiber construction, all-wheel-drive hybrid performance, dramatic upward-opening doors, and a futuristic look that felt closer to a concept car than a traditional luxury coupe.
The 2017 i8 is a plug-in hybrid 2+2 sports coupe with upward-opening doors, a carbon-fiber structure, and a 357-hp all-wheel-drive system. Even the standard version is well equipped, with an 8.8-inch navigation screen, digital gauges, LED headlights, an adaptive suspension, and parking sensors; the Protonic Red Edition adds a more distinctive cosmetic treatment.
What changed, by category
Styling
BMW added the limited Protonic Red Edition with unique color and trim details. The standard i8 coupe’s styling carried over.
2017 BMW i8 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.5T |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd Sequential Md |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Plug-In Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 357 hp |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 4.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 28.2 in |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Electric Range | 15 |
| MPGe Combined | 76 |
| Alarm System | |
| Park Assist | |
| 360 Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| LED Headlights | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Smartphone Interface | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Push-Button Engine Start | |
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2017 BMW i8?
The limited Protonic Red Edition was the main change for 2017, adding unique color and trim details. The standard coupe otherwise carried over without major updates.
Is the 2017 BMW i8 mechanically different from the 2016 model?
No. The 2017 i8 retained the same 357-hp plug-in hybrid all-wheel-drive system, with no major mechanical or structural changes from 2016.
Did the 2017 BMW i8 receive a larger battery or more power?
No. The 2017 i8 kept the earlier battery and powertrain setup; the larger battery and power update did not arrive until the 2019 model year.
Is the 2017 BMW i8 Protonic Red Edition more powerful than the standard coupe?
No. The Protonic Red Edition’s changes were cosmetic, consisting of unique color and trim details rather than added power or a different plug-in hybrid system.
Is the 2017 BMW i8 meaningfully different from the 2016 model?
Not mechanically. Its main distinction is the limited Protonic Red Edition, so the 2017 model matters most to shoppers who value that edition’s unique appearance.
2017 BMW i8 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 BMW i8.
4.4
2017 BMW i8
(14 reviews)
“Electric part is very minor as you only get 15 miles on a charge, doors should be powered, should be handles at top of headliner to help get out of car, there is no wood dash, air conditioning doesn't work well, radio increases in volume on its own for some reason. No option for alternative radio, the car has problems when phone is plugged into charge while on blue tooth, no place to place phone in dashboard,”
“the driver seat needs more adjustibity. very hard to find a good driving position, so make sure you like where you sit then decide on getting the i8”