BMW slightly restyles the 8 Series, which gains in equipment. At the same time, the number of versions is decreasing. The M8 Competition still tops the range in Coupé, Cabriolet and Gran Coupé with its 625 hp biturbo V8.
For its four-year career, the BMW 8 Series Coupé, Cabriolet and Gran Coupé are entitled to the traditional mid-cycle restyling. M8s are also included in the set. The aesthetic changes are discreet, not to say minute. The trained eye will notice that the grille now features vertical bars in the shape of a “U” highlighted by dedicated lighting and that the mesh of the front bumper air intakes, with an equivalent finish, has changed compared to “phase 1”. V8 models in the regular range receive mirrors in the style of those of the M8. Inside, the standard digital instrument panel has grown from 10.25 to 12.3 inches diagonally. The main evolution of the 8 Series is to be found on the side of its equipment, its offer having been reduced and positioned even more upscale.
Standard sports configuration
Gone is the base trim, the aggressive looking M Sport setup is now standard for the 8 Series. It is synonymous with more efficient brakes than those previously fitted to the entry-level versions, and 19-inch rims for the six-cylinder models. V8 variants come standard with 20-inch wheels and an additional piloted rear differential.
Nothing changes on the engine side. The 340 hp six-cylinder diesel of the 840i is still the only electrified block in the range, by micro-hybridization. The 840i’s petrol “inline six” still offers 333 hp and the M850i’s V8 530 hp. All of these engines are turbocharged and mated to xDrive all-wheel drive via an eight-speed Stepronic automatic gearbox. No development either with regard to the M8 Competition whose twin-turbo V8 still sends 625 hp to the four wheels, enough to allow the coupe to go from 0 to 100 km / h in 3.2 s despite a mass that flirts with two tons empty.
An even more opulent 8 Series
Head-up display, four-zone automatic climate control, wireless charger, electrically adjustable front seats and even Merino leather upholstery are now standard equipment.
In terms of driving aids, the standard equipment includes, in particular, reverse drive assistance with memory, parking assistance with autonomous braking, front and rear cross collision warning as well as crossing warning. line.
Adaptive cruise control with lane keeping assist and traffic light recognition remains optional, however. The M8 benefits from standard laser projectors.
New bodywork colors enrich the catalog, and a BMW Motorsport logo commemorating 50 years of the manufacturer’s sports division is available as an option for the hood, boot and hub covers. The restyled BMW 8 Series will go on sale next March. Its French prices have not yet been communicated. Given the move upmarket of the model, a price increase is to be expected.
TO READ. BMW announces the final discontinuation of the V12 with a limited series in the USA
