BMW’s upcoming i8 Spyder has been spotted for the first time.
The vehicle is due on sale in 2018, meaning we should see it arrive as a 2019 model. Its arrival will trail that of an updated version of the i8 coupe BMW will introduce later this year.
An i8 coupe can be seen in some of our spy shots and reveals the differences between the two body styles. The sloping rear windshield of the coupe has been replaced by a small, vertical rear window and new engine cover. Flanking the engine cover are new cowls that flow into the individual rear wings.
The car is more of a targa than a true convertible, with its roof likely to be a removable panel that needs to be manually stowed away. The design was first shown on an i8 Spyder concept unveiled as far back as 2012. The concept featured a two-piece roof panel.
The i8 Spyder, along with the updated i8 coupe, will maintain the current turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-3, 6-speed auto, and electric motor combo. However, the setup’s lame 362 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque output is expected to be boosted. Battery capacity could also be increased to help boost electric range beyond the current 15-mile rating. (Performance hybrid fans in this bracket should definitely look at Acura’s NSX which comes with 573 hp and 476 lb-ft.)
We’re expecting some new technologies in the interior, too. BMW hinted at what’s possible with its i8-based i Future Interaction concept unveiled at the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show. The concept, also a convertible, featured gesture control and multiple digital displays.
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