2018 BMW i3S Debuts With Upgraded Motor, Sportier Styling

The 2018 BMW i3 and i3S have been given an early unveiling by Automobile Magazine.

Set to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the all-new i3S features an upgraded electric motor that reportedly produces 184 hp (137 kW) and 199 lb-ft (269 Nm) of torque – an increase of 14 hp (10 kW) and 15 lb-ft (20 Nm).

Besides the upgraded engine, the i3S rides on a sport-tuned suspension that reduces the ride height by approximately half an inch (12.7 mm). The model also comes equipped with 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels that are slightly wider than the ones on the standard i3.

Speaking of the exterior, both models adopt a new front bumper with restyled fog lights. The standard i3 has chunky plastic body cladding but that’s thankfully absent on the i3S which has black accents and metallic trim.

The interior largely carries over but the optional Giga World trim now boasts Giga Brown Natural Leather and Carum Spice Grey Wool Cloth. Elsewhere, drivers will find the latest iDrive infotainment system with Apple CarPlay compatibility.

The i3’s electric-only range remains unchanged but the car comes with an improved charging cable that enables the battery to be completely replenished in just three hours. This is reportedly five times faster than the previous Level 1 charging cable.

Update:
BMW has released official pictures of the models and confirmed the i3S can accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 6.9 seconds before hitting a limited top speed of 160 km/h (99 mph). When equipped with the optional range-extending engine, the dash from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 7.7 seconds and its top speed remains unchanged.

This means the i3S is 0.8 seconds than the standard model and has a top speed that has been increased by 10 km/h (6 mph).