BMW i8 Roadster lands in Oz

BMW has given its ground-breaking i8 hybrid sports car an upgrade and added the open-top Roadster to the range.

The low-slung coupe first arrived in Australia in 2015, powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine coupled to an electric motor to produce 266kW. While still the same petrol engine the new model has more power, total output of 275kW, thanks to an upgraded electric motor. Torque remains unchanged at 570Nm.

The 2018 model also features greater battery capacity for a longer electric driving range, up to 40km, and subtle styling changes to give it a fresh look.

But the most significant change to the range is the introduction of the i8 Roadster, first unveiled at the 2017 Los Angeles motor show last November. The Roadster has a two-seater layout, instead of the Coupe’s 2+2 seating, and a soft-top roof. The lid can be stowed or closed in just 15-seconds at speeds up to 50km/h.

The Roadster is uniquely available with an optional Travel Package that brings electric seats and extra storage thanks to a specifically designed rear storage section with dividers.

Both the Coupe and Roadster are available in two new colours - E-Cooper metallic and Donington Grey.

Pricing for the 2018 i8 Coupe starts at $318,900 while the Roadster starts at $348,900 (both prices exclude on-road costs).