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BMW Targets Ultra-Luxury Performance Niche with 8 Series Coupe
BMW AG says its all-new 8 Series coupe combines a potent combination of top-end driving performance and posh luxury appointments unlike any other vehicle on the market.
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BMW AG says its all-new 8 Series coupe combines a potent combination of top-end driving performance and posh luxury appointments unlike any other vehicle on the market.
BMW took the wraps off the flagship coupe over the weekend in conjunction with its participation at the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race in France. The styling of the production model is virtually identical to that of last year’s concept car.
The coupe shares a platform with the 7 Series sedan and will be built alongside that vehicle at the company’s plant in Dingolfing, Germany. Sales are due to start later this year.
Riding on a 111-inch wheelbase, the car stretches 191 inches from bumper to bumper and is 75 inches wide. Aluminum and carbon fiber are used throughout the car, although the vehicle still weighs a relatively hefty 4,500 lbs.
Design cues include a sleek silhouette, narrow window pillars, a “double-bubble” roof, and ultra-slim headlights and taillights. The concept model’s angular hexagonal twin-kidney grille has been toned down slightly on the production car. Aerodynamic enhancements include grille shutters, active air curtains and a covered underbody.Two engines are available: a 4.4-liter turbocharged V-8 and, in select markets, a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel. Both are mated with a sport version of BMW’s 8-speed automatic transmission and a rear-based xDrive all-wheel-drive system with optional electronic rear differential.
The V-8 generates 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. BMW says the powerplant can rocket the coupe from zero to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds on its way to a limited top speed of 155 mph. Enhancements include a higher-strength aluminum alloy for the engine block, larger turbos, modified intake ports to allow for improved flow and a direct-injection system that boosts pressure capacity to nearly 5,100 psi. A viscous damper on the crankshaft improves engine smoothness.
The double-wishbone front suspension and five-link rear unit were designed specifically for the 8 Series. Other goodies include electronically controlled dampers, active roll stabilization, all-wheel steering and variable steering ratios.
The interior features a host of high-end materials, including leather door inserts and instrument panel covers. The central touchscreen and other controls are tilted toward the driver to create a sports car feel. A diamond-cut glass gear selector is optional.