Do we smell a road trip coming?
The new BMW 8 Series uses a name that was last employed in 1999 when the final E31 8 Series Coupe rolled off the German marque’s production line. The new release is arguably one of the most eagerly awaited models from BMW in recent years. Before its launch, the 6 Series had been flying the flag as the carmaker’s top-of-the-line grand tourer (GT) coupe.
With the revival of the 8 Series name, the new model, which was codenamed G15, certainly has much to live up to. Also, the series’ number 8 alludes to the elevated status within BMW’s stable—think the BMW Z8, which has been discontinued since 2003, and the current BMW i8, both of which represent the creme de la creme of its type. The new 8 Series is also a key component of the luxury segment offensive set out by the BMW Group as part of its “Number One > Next” strategy, a future-proofing master plan to maintain the brand’s success sustainably, while focusing on developing electric mobility.
(Related: BMW Reveals More Details About Its New And Powerful All-Electric i4 Sedan)
Zooming in on the details
Currently available in three variants—the two-door M850i xDrive Coupe and Convertible, as well as the four‑door Gran Coupe—the new BMW 8 Series boasts the fastest and safest rides in their respective categories. All three variants come with the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system, while only one drivetrain is offered for the series—a twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8 engine with 530hp and 750Nm mated to an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission.
Word has it that the rear-wheel drive BMW 840i Gran Coupe will be available soon too. It is propelled by a turbocharged 3.0L in-line six-cylinder engine with 340hp and 500Nm, and its century sprint takes 5.2sec.
The coupe’s low-slung design has a stretched silhouette and a roofline flowing stylishly into the powerfully shaped rear. Couple that with a long wheelbase and a wide track, all these elements hint at the car’s potent performance.
(Related: Need A Massage On The Road? Cars Of The Future Will Be Able To Do Much More Than Just Drive)