Electric BMW

The BMW i3 will be the first model of BMW’s new “i” sub-brand which promises a focus on zero-emission vehicles and sustainability. The 2015 BMW i3 is powered by a 170-hp electric motor that provides approximately 80-100 miles of range. A small, two-cylinder gasoline engine will also be available as an option to provide range-extended capability similar to the system on the Chevrolet Volt.

The 2015 BMW i3 is priced higher than competitors, which include the 2014 Fiat 500e, the 2014 Ford Focus Electric, the 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV, and the 2013 Nissan Leaf. The least-expensive EV on the market is the 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV with a base price of $27,495 with destination. The 2013 Nissan Leaf and 2014 Ford Focus Electric also both received price cuts recently for base prices of $29,650 and $35,995, respective. There is no word yet on tax incentives which could reduce the price of the 2014 BMW i3 depending on the state in which it is purchased.

Look for the i3 to make its official debut July 29 where we will see the first official pictures of the car. The i3 will go on sale in the second quarter of 2014, BMW says. Check out the chart below to see how the i3 stacks up against the electrified competition.

Starting from $229,900 plus on-roads, the 2014 model BMW M5 will be armed with the "Competition Package" which provides an 11kW boost to the TwinPower V8. That delivers a massive 423kW of power, helping slice 0.1 seconds off the 0-100kmh sprint time.

BMW M engineers have also modified the chassis set-up, and lowered the M5 by about 10 millimetres while the stabiliser bars have received increased torsional rigidity.

New external features include 20-inch M light-alloy wheels, along with a sport exhaust system featuring M twin tailpipes in black chrome.

There is also a new M kidney grille featuring the M5 model designation and twin slats that reflect the double-spoke design of the M Alloy wheels adorn the front of the vehicle. Adaptive LED headlights are standard, along with new rear design tail lights with thin LED light strips.

Interior features include a new M leather steering wheel, along with chrome trim highlights around the control display.  Cabin storage is improved with an updated centre console area and additional space under the centre armrest.

New colour options are Pyrite Brown metallic, Frozen Blue metallic and Pure Metal Silver.

According to BMW Group Australia managing director Phil Horton, the new BMW M5 is quite simply what the BMW M brand is all about.

"The BMW M5 was the first vehicle to create this segment, and for almost 30 years it has set the standard in it.  Now, with enhanced styling, packaging and performance the bar has been raised even higher," Horton said.