BMW will end production of the i8
plug-in hybrid sports car in April 2020, exactly six years after the daring
project came to this world. To mark the occasion, the automaker has released a final special
edition named the Ultimate Sophisto. Described as “the last in the line of
exclusive special editions of the world’s highest-selling plug-in hybrid sports
car,” the Ultimate Sophisto Edition is on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show
in Coupe guise, although it’s also available as a Roadster.
BMW will only make 200 units of the i8 Ultimate
Sophisto Edition, split evenly between the Coupe and the Roadster. Their
defining feature is the exterior paintwork in Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect,
from which the name of this edition is derived.
The spectacular paint is complemented by accents in
E-Copper, marking the first time this color has been used in such a way.
Equally exclusive are the 20-inch BMW i light-alloy wheels in radial-spoke
design that feature a dual-tone look blending E-Copper and black.
Look closely and you’ll also notice the clear-glass
taillights — another special feature of the Ultimate Sophisto Edition. Other
exterior tweaks worth noting are the Shadow Line trim element on the C-pillar
and high-gloss black tailgate inlay. The brake calipers are also painted
high-gloss black and feature blue detailing and BMW i badging.
The exclusive treatment carries over inside with an
Accaro interior in Black/E-Copper matching the exterior look. The door sill
plates feature “Ultimate Sophisto Edition” lettering and a numbered “X of 200”
badge, marking the car’s exclusive status. The i8 Coupe adds an
anthracite-colored headliner and extended storage, while the Roadster gets the
travel package.
Naturally, the special i8 is fully equipped, with
standard features including a Head-Up Display, BMW’s light package, a Harman
Kardon hi-fi speaker system and ceramic applications for the controls.
