After years of teasing us with images, concepts and vinyl-wrapped prototypes, BMW has finally lifted the curtain on the hybrid i8 sports car at the Frankfurt motor show -- and given North American roundel lovers who also happen to be green fanatics some pricing information to mull over. The German automaker expects the i8 to retail for $135,700 (plus unspecified destination and handling charges). Look for it in U.S. showrooms next spring.
Beyond the pricing information and glimpses of the i8's complex curves free at last of dazzling camouflage, however, specifications haven't changed much since we reviewed an i8 prototype last month. The plug-in hybrid's three-cylinder 1.5-liter gasoline engine cranks out 231 hp and 236 lb ft of torque; add in an electric motor and the combined output jumps to 362 hp and 420 lb ft. A six-speed automatic is the only available gearbox.
It's good enough for a 0-62-mph sprint of 4.4 seconds while supposedly returning the equivalent of 94 mpg. We suspect that return will vary based on which of the three driving modes -- sport, comfort or eco pro -- happens to be selected. All-electric drive is possible, but only for about 22 miles.
The BMW i8 is a fascinating car in its own right, and -- along with the roadster version expected in 2015 -- should provide eco-conscious enthusiasts M3 performance without the green guilt. We're eager to see how the technology of the high-dollar statement in carbon fiber filters down to BMW's more conventional offerings.
No comments:
Post a Comment