The 2019 BMW i8 has zero owner defect complaints and 2 safety recall campaigns on file with NHTSA. EPA testing covers 2 certified vehicle configurations spanning 1.5L 3-Cyl plug-in hybrid powertrain configurations. Plug-in hybrid variants are rated up to 69 MPGe (27 MPG on gasoline) with up to 18 miles of electric driving range. Detailed NHTSA crash-test ratings are not available in the current AutoUtility dataset for this model year.
Key Data Findings
- • NHTSA Owner Complaints: 0 reports
- • Safety Recall Campaigns: 2 campaigns
- • NHTSA Overall Safety Rating: Not rated by NHTSA
- • EPA Efficiency: null MPGe (2 variants • PHEV up to 69 MPGe)
Data Note: Compiled directly from official NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI), NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, and EPA FuelEconomy.gov databases.
| Variant | Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City | Highway | Combined | EV Range | Est. Annual Fuel Cost |
| I8 Coupe Plug-in Hybrid | 1.5L 3-Cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 68 MPGe (26 MPG) | 70 MPGe (29 MPG) | 69 MPGe (27 MPG) | 18 mi EV (320 mi total) | $2,800 / yr |
| I8 Roadster Plug-in Hybrid | 1.5L 3-Cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 68 MPGe (26 MPG) | 70 MPGe (29 MPG) | 69 MPGe (27 MPG) | 18 mi EV (320 mi total) | $2,800 / yr |
Data Boundary Note: EPA specifications are shown by certified vehicle configuration. NHTSA complaints and recall totals are recorded at the model-year level across all configurations.
| Tested Drivetrain / Cab Variant | Overall Rating | Frontal Crash | Side Crash | Rollover Rating | Rollover Risk |
| 2 DR AWD | Not Rated | Not Rated | Not Rated | Not Rated | — |
Active Driver Assistance Systems (NHTSA Recorded): Forward Collision Warning (FCW) is documented as No and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) is documented as No in official NHTSA records for tested 2019 BMW i8 models.
View complete 2019 BMW i8 crash test & safety breakdown →
Data Attribution & Context: Complaints are self-reported by vehicle owners to NHTSA and represent unverified consumer submissions. Complaint volume does not equal a statistically controlled failure rate and is not adjusted for total vehicles sold or cumulative mileage driven.
View all 2019 BMW i8 problems & component breakdown (0 categories) →
Affected Component: HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
Defect Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019 i3 BEV, i3 REx, and i8 vehicles. A circuit board problem within the Electric Motor Electronics (EME) module may shutdown the supply of high-voltage electrical power.
Free Manufacturer Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EME module, free of charge. The recall began October 11, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Affected Component: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
Defect Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 BMW 330e iPerformance, i3 Rex, i3 Sport Rex, X5 xDrive40e, i3 BEV, i3 Sport BEV and 2019 i8 and i8 Roadster vehicles and 2018-2019 530e iPerformance, 530e xDrive iPerformance and 740Le xDrive iPerformance vehicles. Capacitors within the TurboCord Portable Chargers may fail, possibly resulting in a shock hazard or a fire.
Free Manufacturer Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the charging cable, and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 22, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
View all 2019 BMW i8 recalls & campaign history (2 campaigns) →