Brand-new spy shots of the 2019 BMW i8 Roadster have just surfaced. The new model of the popular i8 was spotted undergoing some arduous winter testing, prepping for a 2018 model year release. This new Roadster is envisioned as a convertible counterpart to the scene stealing i8 coupe, whose updated new model is expected to be released later this year.
image credit: motorauthority
Exterior
The new 2019 BMW i8 Roadster features some subtle changes to the original coupe body style. For instance, a small-scale, steep rear window takes the place of the coupe’s signature sloping rear windshield, while the engine cover is replaced by new cowls that flow into the individual rear wings. When it comes to the convertible roof, from what we cat tell from the spy shots, it looks like the roof is comprised of a single removable panel that will need to be put away by hand. This type of design was first previewed in the i8 Spyder concept that dates back to 2012. Only, the concept featured a two-piece roof panel instead of one.
image credit: motorauthority
There were no images showing the interior of the interior of the new Roadster, but we are already expecting big things from the high-tech side. If the i8-based i Future Interaction Convertible concept that made waves at the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show can be something to go on, the Roadster could include features like multiple digital display and gesture control to name a few.
image credit: bmwblog
Engine and Powertrain
There is no information about the engine and powertrain at this moment, but we do know that the i8 Spyder and the refreshed i8 coupe will keep their 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-3 engine and electric motor combo, so it might also make its way under the hood of the new 2019 BMW i8 Roadster. This engine when mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission is able to deliver up to 362 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, which is definitely reserved for a vehicle of i8’s statue. That is why BMW will most likely do all they can to boost the output. Moreover, the battery capacity is something that they should also consider increasing in order to expand the electric range beyond its current 15-mile rating.
image credit: bmwblog
2019 BMW i8 Roadster Release Date and Price
BMW are yet to announce the release date and pricing for their new 2019 BMW i8 Roadster. But according to BMW CEO Harald Krüger, we could see the new Roadster hit the showrooms by the end of 2018, as a 2019 model. The pricing can be expected to start at about $144,395 and only go up from there.
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