BMW i8 launched in Malaysia for RM 1.31 million

KUALA LUMPUR: After several months of its global debut, BMW i8 Coupe is finally launched in Malaysia. The major change is done to the powertrain of this sports coupe. This means that the 355-volt battery now has an improved cell capacity of 34 Ah and higher gross energy capacity of 11.6 kWh. The result is more electric range, which is now rated at 55 km. When compared to its predecessor, now you will get 50% more electric range.

With improvements to the front wheel drive electric motor, that is linked to the two-speed automatic gearbox, it delivers an output of 141 hp. Engine remains the same TwinPower Turbo 1.5-litre three-cylinder that makes 228 hp and 320 Nm of torque.

The updated BMW i8 has a new Air Shutter on the bonnet, which opens or closes according to cooling or aerodynamic needs. The airflow has been tweaked to flow to the sides of the car and into the underbody to cool the engine, rather than exiting through the outlet.

Also, now you have the ‘Coupe’ badge on the C-pillar as well as the 20-inch Jet Black light-alloy wheels in a radial-spoke design. Colours available are Jet Black, Crystal White with Frozen Grey highlights, or Donington Grey from the BMW Individual selection. Except for these changes, the exterior of the new BMW i8 Coupe remains largely similar to the previous model including the head-turner dihedral doors.

Inside the new BMW i8, the gear lever has a ceramic surround while the iDrive controller has a bezel. You get an anthracite headliner including ‘Drycarbon’ interior trim while Gigia Amido or Accaro E-Copper ‘Spheric’ leather upholstery. The dashboard layout remains same with a configurable colour heads-up display.

This flagship model of BMW comes at a price of RM 1,310,800 with a five-year/unlimited mileage warranty with free scheduled service programme, roadside assistance, a two-year tyre warranty programme, BMW Service Online and a special BMW White Card membership. If you don't have enough money pay immediately, but still want to own this car, you can go for the Balloon Financing Plan from BMW Credit, which allows you to own the new i8 Coupe with monthly installment plans starting from RM 15,088.