The Gentleman Racer
BMW Ups the Ante with Thrilling Driving Dynamics Fused with Luxury and Refinement
One of the most exciting new models to emerge in recent years, the BMW 8 Series Coupé opens a new chapter in BMW’S history of making iconic sports cars; with outstanding performance, striking design, state-of-the-art luxury and advanced equipment technology.
The primary development objective for the new BMW 8 Series was thrilling driving dynamics. Body, powertrain and suspension were honed to achieve the best agility, precision and poise expected of a top-class sports car. In the process, powerful engines were combined with the BMW xdrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system and BMW Efficient-light-weight design measures. The car was developed alongside the BMW M8 GTE, a race car that with a proven pedigree in long-distance races.
Externally, the design language exudes sporting appeal, with a clear link to the BMW Concept 8 Series first unveiled at the Concorso d’eleganza Villa d’este in 2017. It shows a new styling language focusing on clarity, modernity and emotional engagement.
The interior creates a harmonious balance between driver-focused dynamics and luxurious elegance. The seamless transition between the instrument panel and door trim is made smoother by the coordinated
surface textures and a careful choice of materials. At the same time, all lines point lengthways, automatically directing the gaze forward towards the road and emphasising the focus on sporty driving.
Under the bonnet of the BMW M850i xdrive is a 530hp V8 twin-turbocharged petrol engine developing 750Nm of torque. Radically revised, M Performance Twinpower Turbo technology serves up an enthralling blend of power delivery and an equally impressive soundtrack, which is enhanced by the flap-controlled sports exhaust system. The Driving Performance Control switch can be used to activate an extremely sporty or a distinctly comfort-oriented powertrain set-up.
Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes just 3.7 seconds, yet the combined fuel consumption of 29.1mpg and the combined CO2 emissions of 221g/km clearly demonstrate that the increase in the eight-cylinder engine’s power has gone hand in hand with efficiency too.
Improved, the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission achieves significant efficiency gains with reduced engine speeds, particularly when driving in higher gears. Shift paddles on the steering wheel are included for manual gear selection, inclusive of a Launch Control function.
The BMW xdrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system operates with fully variable distribution of torque between the front and rear wheels, maximising traction and handling stability in both adverse road conditions and highly dynamic driving situations. To increase efficiency, all of the torque is directed to the rear wheels when all-wheel drive is not needed. The rear-biased set-up guarantees the sort of driving experience for which BMW sports cars are renowned.
For a more focussed and sporty handling, Integral Active Steering reduces the turning circle when manoeuvring, yet becomes more direct as the speed builds but allows the driver to manoeuvre at low speeds with minimal steering wheel movement.
A wide variety of driver assistance systems marks out the 8 Series Coupé as an extremely advanced car, enhancing comfort and safety in complex traffic. The BMW Personal Co-pilot monitors the vehicle’s surroundings, to warn of potential hazards and to minimise the risk of an accident with corrective braking or steering inputs.