EIGHT EXPECTATIONS

Debuting at this year’s Concorso d’eleganza Villa d’este, the Concept 8 Series is a taster of what we can expect from BMW’S upcoming rival to the S-class Coupé

OLD MEETS NEW

When the 8 Series was originally launched back in 1989, its rakish shape and pop-up headlamps stood in stark contrast to BMW’S more conservative offerings of the time. While the company’s styling has become more daring, the Concept 8 Series’ cab-back profile and taut bodywork, with such signatures as the kidney grille and Hofmeister kink brought up to date with more daring takes, has hints of both the original 8 and the company’s more contemporary products. The whole shooting match rolls on a set of 21-inch light-alloy wheels.

LIGHT FANTASTIC

In addition to the firm’s pin-sharp laser headlamps up front, the Concept 8 Series also features OLED (organic LED) elements for the L-shaped brakelamps. These are said to emit a uniform light, are more energy efficient and last the lifetime of the vehicle. Both technologies also require little space, their compact strip-like applications allowing the designers to be more dashing with sheetmetal cuts.

UNFETTERED INNARDS

The 8’s interior treatment is minimalist, utilising touchscreen interfaces in lieu of ranks of buttons and digital displays. A large drive-tunnel case and arcing driver-side binnacle and door trim impart the pilot’s seat with a snug, sporty air. Lashings of Merino leather and aluminium garnish are among the finishes.

MYSTERY MACHINERY

BMW hasn’t disclosed any information regarding the upcoming 8 Series production vehicle’s powerplants. Senior vice president of BMW Group Design, Adrian van Hooydonk, stated that the concept represents the firm’s idea for a “full-blooded high-end driving machine”, so the entry-level 840i will likely mount a tuned version of the firm’s 3,0-litre inline-six. In keeping with the original car’s engine lineup, a V8 model – possibly the 4,4-litre biturbo V8 – and the 6,6-litre V12 from the M760LI might also join. Expect rearwheel drive, with AWD an option for certain markets and more powerful models.