Previously, it was rumored that the German automaker BMW is working on a new more powerful i8 hybrid which will be called the i8 M, but now a UK based magazine AutoExpress claims that BMW is indeed planning to upgrade the i8’s powertrain, but it will not be featured under the M lineup.
Currently, the BMW i8 carries a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with dual electric motors that generate a combined 362 horsepower. The report suggests that the new powerhouse will be a 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit that will push the horsepower to 450.
Powerful engine means more speed, and hence the new engine will allow the i8 to accelerate from zero to 60mph in about 4 seconds, while the current i8 takes nearly 4.4 seconds. In addition to the upgraded engine, the weight of i8 will also be reduced by making use of carbon fibre components.
The release date of this new model is not confirmed yet, but we can expect it to arrive sometime in the start of 2016.