The Phantom Supercar: Revealing BMW's Visionary i8 Successor That Never Hit the Roads
For car enthusiasts and dreamers alike, the name BMW evokes images of speed, innovation, and the unmistakable allure of German engineering. However, even in this illustrious history of mechanical marvels, there are tales of what might have been—none more captivating than the story of the i8’s would-be successor, a car that promised to redefine the boundaries of hybrid technology and design aesthetics.
The i8's Legacy and Its Unborn Successor
Since the i8 ceased production in 2020, BMW aficionados have been left dreaming of the next high-dollar, eye-catching sports car. BMW’s head of design, Domagoj Dukec, turned heads and fueled fantasies by revealing sketches of what was supposed to be the next evolution in BMW’s sports car lineup. Through a series of sketches and renderings on his Instagram, Dukec unveiled the silhouette of the i16—a direct descendant of the i8 developed from the Vision M Next concept car of 2019.
With defined lines that represented the future while nodding respectfully to the past, especially to the iconic M1, the i16 boasted a design that Dukec described as ‘a future classic.’ Taking inspiration from the composite structure of the BMW i8 and refining it within less than a year, the i16 seemed poised to become the new face of BMW’s commitment to innovation and style.
The Design That Almost Was
Despite never becoming a reality, the i16 was a testament to BMW's ongoing mission to push the limits of automotive design and technology. The vehicle combined elements of the original i8 with the sharp, aggressive aesthetics of the Vision M Next concept. Increased power, a longer electric driving range, more aggressive styling, and an improved chassis were all on the drawing board for this phantom pandemic">supercar.
Moreover, the i16's design sketches reveal a fascinating blend of BMW's current design language with futuristic touches. The flared hood and front fender intakes, reminisce of BMW’s current M3 and M4, while the razor-thin taillights suggest influences from the iX production line. It’s a harmonious blend of BMW’s rich heritage and forward-thinking vision—a glimpse into what the future of luxury sports cars might have looked like.
A Dream Deferred
However, the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 forced BMW to shelve the i16 project indefinitely. It was a harsh reminder of the fragile nature of automotive dreams, leaving many to wonder what thrills and advancements the i16 could have brought to the roads and racetracks of the world.
Even though specifics regarding the car’s capabilities remain scarce, the original Vision M Next concept hinted at an awe-inspiring 591 horsepower output from a mid-mounted turbocharged four-cylinder engine coupled with a plug-in hybrid system. It boasted a potential acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.0 seconds and a top speed of 186 mph—stats that are sure to make any car enthusiast's heart race.
In Pursuit of What's Next
Despite the i16’s relegation to the realm of 'what could have been,' BMW's spirit of innovation remains undimmed. The vision shared by Dukec offers both a tantalizing glimpse into a future that might have been and a reminder of the relentless pursuit of excellence that drives the automotive industry.
As we look to the future, hope remains for an electric supercar bearing the BMW badge. Until then, the story of the i16 serves as a poignant reminder of the dreams that fuel our passion for the road, the speed, and the sheer joy of driving.
About the Author
Jack Fitzgerald, known for his perpetual love for cars and Formula 1, has carved a niche for himself in the world of automotive writing. Starting his journey as a car detailer, Jack's obsession with new cars led him to pursue a career in auto journalism. Today, he brings his unique insights and experiences to the readers of Car and Driver, continually exploring the ever-evolving narrative of the automotive world.