This BMW was supposed to be the successor to the i8, but it never became a production car

BMW i16, a potential successor to the i8, combined styling elements from the 2019 Vision M Next Concept and the classic M1.

Recently, on Instagram, BMW's Head of Design, Domagoj Dukec, shared some photos and drawings of the i16. Dukec claimed that the vehicle's interior and exterior design were complete before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, the project was canceled. It's a shame because the renderings of the i16 showcase a shapely, interesting flagship coupe—a highly refined version of the Vision M Next concept from 2019. 

The front of the i16 features many references to the i8, but it also stands on its own. While the i8 used splashes of blue to highlight its innovative hybrid powertrain, the i16 opts for bolder splashes of orange, reflecting sportiness. At the rear, slim taillights reminiscent of those on the iX SUV are featured. 

The i16 could have been the halo car for BMW. However, instead of the i16, we now have the polarizing BMW XM.

Source: Domagoj Dukec