All the way back in September, we were telling you about the big things our favorite automaker has in store for us when the BMW i8 finally arrives. And while we still have a little while before it rolls into our dealership here at Hendrick BMW, at least it's already here in the States.
In case you haven't heard, the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show is now well underway. Not one to miss out on such a world-class event, the brass at BMW has brought along both of their upcoming eco-friendly models to steal the show. And steal the show they have.
First up, there's the BMW i8. In terms of powertrain, it comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that's paired to a six-speed automatic transmission and delivers 231 horsepower to the rear wheels. It also has an electric motor that pumps out 131 horsepower to the front wheels, making for a combined output of 362 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque when everything's working together.
Did we mention that it has a driving range of 310 miles, 22 of which can be driven on electric power alone?
Speaking of which, the all-electric BMW i3 will boast a driving range of 80 to 100 miles thanks to its electric motor that also happens to dish out 170 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. And if you ever feel like doubling this beauty's driving range, you can do just that with an optional 650-cc two-cylinder gasoline engine.
So if you'd like to see them in the metal (and, trust us, they are something to see), then there's never been a better time to visit LA. Or if you'd rather stay local and tide yourself over before the i3 and i8 make their way to our dealership, our lineup awaits here in Charlotte, NC. 2014 can't get here fast enough.