BMW M2 and X4 M40i Performance Edition Unveiled at Detroit Show

At the ongoing Detroit Auto Show 2016, BMW launched the M2 performance coupe variant and the X4 M40i. The brand didn’t stop there because they had nearly a dozen cars scheduled for the auto show launch as well.

A lion’s share of the launches was dedicated to plug-in hybrids and electric cars. BMW was no different as the company also showcased the X7, BMW 7, 330e, as well as the i8 and the electric car i3.

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Speaking about the newly launched BMW M2, the executive confirmed that the car will be powered by a 3-liter six-cylinder engine capable of delivering amazing top speed and acceleration. It can easily touch from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 4.2 seconds. They also confirmed that the M2 will be available in the U.S. markets in spring 2016.

The electric version, the BMW X4 M40i will be powered by a six-cylinder turbo charged engine with the capability to deliver 355 horsepower combined with 343 lb feet of torque. The car can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 4.7 seconds. It will be made available in the month of February in the United States, but BMW refrained from announcing the pricing at the Detroit Motor Show. They have confirmed that pricing will be made official close to the launch date.

The M40i will also be made available in Europe in the first quarter of 2016. However, the diesel variant of the car is under much trouble due to the Volkswagen emission scandal. It is being said that the diesel version of the car in the U.S. and UK may be delayed until a possible solution is arrived at. Meanwhile, most manufacturers have pushed plug-ins and hybrids in favor of diesel engines at reduced cost.

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At this rate, most gasoline cars could be accompanied by hybrid, plug-in models which may phase out diesel cars eventually. The diesel engines are slowly becoming obsolete in Europe due to high emission restrictions and the same is expected to take place in other regions in the next two to three years.

Meanwhile, Chevrolet has already launched an affordable electric car with good mile range while Tesla has promised to do the same in 2018. With $30,000 electric cars running 300 miles on a single charge, there is hardly any reason to say no to them. The BMW X4 M40i may join the list as well.

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