2021 BMW 8 Series

History/Overview

The BMW 8 Series recently took over the place of the 6 Series in the company lineup. It's a big coupe, convertible, or four-door coupe (that they're calling Gran Coupe), but not as big as the older 6 despite the higher-numbered name. Like the previous 8 Series generation of the mid-1990s, this is a grand touring coupe rather than an all-out sports car, but since this is BMW that doesn't preclude excellent performance and handling.

What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year

New just the last model year, there are no major changes to the 8 Series models for 2021.

Available Trims

BMW doesn't generally offer trim levels, instead different engines that can all largely be equipped the same way. In the case of the 8 Series, the car offers three body-styles and just one engine (aside from the high-performance M8 that has its own listing). That's Coupe, Cabriolet, and four-door Gran Coupe, all with a 523 hp gas V8 badged M850i, with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.

Standard Features

Offering just one trim level, the M850i models are well equipped starting with 20-inch light alloy wheels and Marino leather heated and multifunction seating with M-stripe piping. The cars get remote start, proximity key entry and start, soft close doors, a panoramic sunroof (except on Cabriolet), rear sunshades, and four-zone climate control (except Cabriolet). A heat comfort package that adds heated armrests is included as is satellite radio and parking assistant with surround view camera, head-up display, and Harman Kardon audio. Performance-wise, and M aerodynamics package is standard, as are M-Sport brakes, adaptive M suspension with active roll stabilisation, rear steering, and M Sport differential.

Key Options

An Executive pack adds glass interior elements, ventilated front seats, and Driving Assistant Professional driver assistance features. An upgraded Bowers and Wilkins audio system is offered, and there are extensive interior colour and trim choices.

Fuel Economy

While 2021 figures aren't yet available, they should remain unchanged from 2020. On that year's chart, Coupe versions of the M850i are estimated to get 13.6 L/100 km city, 9.3 highway, while Cabriolet and Gran Coupe should achieve 14.5 city, 9.9 highway.

Competition

The 8 Series models compete, in coupe form, with the likes of the S-Class coupe, Porsche 911, and Aston Martin DB11, as well as Jaguar F-Type models. The Cabriolet sees much of the same, while the Gran Coupe is well paired with the Porsche Panamera, AMG GT 4-door, Audi A7, and the growing list of expensive and fast four-doors with sleek rooflines.