BMW started showing photos of the all-new 8 Series in concept forms as far back as May of last year. But the production version is finally ready, and the big coupe has been revealed officially.
The 8 Series wears the highest number in the BMW lineup, but it's not the biggest car. At 4,851 mm long, it's actually 43 mm shorter than the 6 Series coupe and convertible. It's still not exactly small, and BMW points out that the 8 badge is "reserved for exceptionally sporty cars." Cars like the Z8 roadster and the i8 hybrid supercar.
BMW says that the main focus of the 8 is on dynamics. To that end, while the 8 will launch globally with a gas and a diesel engine, Canada is starting off with just the gas version. That's in the M Performance version, the M850i xDrive. It has a 4.4L twin-turbo V8 that produces 530 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. It uses an eight-speed automatic transmission and sends the power to all four wheels. The rear-biased all-wheel drive system has an electronic locking M Sport rear differential to help send power to the wheels that need it.
The stiff chassis uses an adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers. The suspension can adjust both rebound and compression damping continuously and separately. BMW says that the suspension uses extremely stiff springs to reduce roll and keep the wheels on the road but that the dampers can respond quickly to filter out everything but relevant steering information.
The M850i doesn't leave luxury at the roadside, though. New multifunction sports seats are fitted, trimmed with Vernasca leather. The dashboard, doors, and steering wheel are leather trimmed as well. BMW says that the seats deliver long-distance comfort as well as excellent lateral support. The standard trim is stainless steel mesh, with copper effect and ash wood trims available. The standard audio system is a 16-speaker Harman Kardon unit. Or, step up to the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond system with 16 illuminated speakers and 1,375 watts.
The car also allows remote software upgrades and lets you trade a physical key for your smartphone. The digital key allows the car to be unlocked by holding your phone up to the door handle. It can then start once your phone is in the smartphone tray. BMW has given the 8 Microsoft Office integration that lets users access email from their car to manage contacts and appointments, as well as make calls using Skype.
The BMW M850i is set to go on sale this fall, with pricing closer to that date. It is expected to be followed by a quicker M8 model, as well as a four-door Grand Coupe.
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