The German manufacturer’s new large prestige coupe, packed with technology and flanked by a high-performance V8, is a formidable driving machine.
By Frédéric Edmond
It is now the 8 Series, a large coupe version of the 7 Series limousine, which crowns the BMW range. Heir to the 1989 8 Series and replacement for the 6 Series, this GT, fresh off the road, marks the arrival of the German premium manufacturer in this luxurious segment. With a length of 4.85 m, a width of 1.90 m and a height of 1.34 m, this 8 Series is distinguished by a slender and expressive silhouette: its long hood, low chassis, athletic shoulders, elongated rear window widening downwards and tapered windows give this elegant car undeniable sporting attributes. With a length of 4.85 m, a width of 1.90 m and a height of 1.34 m, this 8 Series is distinguished by a slender and expressive silhouette: its long hood, low chassis, athletic shoulders, elongated rear window widening downward and tapered windows give this elegant car undeniable sporting attributes.
Inside, the atmosphere, although conventional, remains luxurious and sophisticated. The two front seats have plenty of space and multiple electric adjustments. The lines are elegant and the layout clear, the materials are first class with generous leather coverings on the dashboard and doors. Induction phone charger, BMW Display Key and Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System speakers add a touch of contemporary luxury to the options list. In the rear, however, the two seats should be considered as extra seats, despite the large wheelbase of the car.
Under the hood, a 4.4-liter V8 powers this M850i version. With its enormous torque of 750 Nm from 1,800 rpm, this 530-horsepower block offers the coupe exceptional performance, despite its two tons on the scale: from a standing start, it reaches 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds; its top speed, limited to 250 km/h, is also reached in a short time and with disconcerting ease. Even better: this engine allows the 8 Series, which is certainly designed for long journeys, to be used in the city. The eight-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth and fast shifts. The 10 liters consumed in a mixed cycle seem reasonable in terms of performance.
Behind the wheel, this low-slung GT graces the driver with a throaty sound, especially when the Sport driving mode is activated. Driving is aided by numerous aids such as Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Side Impact Protection, Avoidance Assist, Distance Display, Right of Way and Wrong Way Warning, and is made easier by the all-wheel drive and four-wheel steering, which give the 8-Series a high degree of precision when cornering. Based on a high-tech chassis with active roll control and a sport differential, the coupe is surprisingly agile. The driving mode selector offers a choice between sporty settings, modifying the suspension and transmission for optimal dynamics, or comfort.
Engine: V8
Displacement: 4 395 cm3
Power: 530 hp.
Torque: 750 Nm
0 to 100 km/h: 3.7 seconds
Max. speed 250 km/h
Mixed consumption: 10 liters
