Design updates, more technology and extra kit for new BMW 8 Series Coupe, Convertible and four-door Gran Coupe models.
A range-wide overhaul for BMW’s 8 Series Coupe, Convertible and four-door Gran Coupe models has been unveiled as part of a mid-life refresh for the brand’s high-end luxury line-up.
Subtle styling tweaks and the addition of more technology and equipment are the key changes, with all 8 Series bodystyles now coming as standard with an M Sports body package.
This includes aerodynamically optimised design features finished in the chosen body colour (of which four new options are available) at the front, rear and on the side skirts, plus a gently redesigned front bumper with larger intakes lower down that are now sectioned off by horizontal struts.
At the rear there’s a new diffuser insert finished in Dark Shadow metallic, while 20-inch M alloy wheels cover an M Sport braking system with blue calipers. As with other high-end models in the German car maker’s range, the new 8 Series features illumination for the car’s kidney grille as part of BMW’s “Iconic Glow” package.
The grille also features redesigned U-shaped bars and gets a small M logo on the V8-engined M850i models, while tri-colour stitching on the steering wheel marks out this version’s interior. Adaptive LED headlights with cornering functionality are fitted as standard, while laser lights are offered as an option.
Inside, there’s an enlarged 12.3-inch central infotainment screen running BMW’s latest operating system to go with the digital dash, plus Individual Merino leather is included to boost the 8 Series line-up’s status as BMW’s luxury halo car.
Equipment available includes full keyless go tech, the M Technology Package, heated seats, Driving and Parking Assistant, Harman Kardon stereo, head-up display, gesture control, adaptive M suspension, sports exhaust and two-zone climate control; local specification and pricing for Australia is yet to be confirmed.
The M Sport Pro package benefits from its different 20-inch alloy wheels and larger brakes, Shadowline exterior trim, M seatbelts, plus BMW’s Visibility and Technology Plus packs; the former adds laser lights and the latter more driver assistance tech, plus a Bowers and Wilkins stereo.
The regular Coupe, Convertible and Gran Coupe bodystyles are each available with a choice of two engines separate from the M8 Competition variant of each. The range starts with the 840i, a 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder petrol model producing 245kW and 500Nm of torque.
Topping the regular 8 Series range is the M850i xDrive powertrain, a 390kW, 750Nm 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol model that will sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds in Coupe form. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard on all models.
The facelifted 2022 BMW M8 range has also been revealed.
Sean Carson