The M8 was previously a lost nameplate for BMW in 1990, with the German manufacturer developing a V12 engine for its 8 Series GT car. Though sadly it was never put into production.
Fast forward nearly two decades and we have a production version of the M8, based on BMW’s glamorous new 8 Series. Packed with the most powerful engine ever to be fitted to a BMW M car, the M8 looks to be a serious sports car.
We will be driving it shortly (so look out for the imminent first review), but in the meantime here is a look at everything you need to know about the new model.
What engines are available?
The M8 Competition is offered with just one engine, which, as we’ve already mentioned, is the most powerful BMW M engine to ever be produced.
The M8’s 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine is a popular engine in BMW’s line-up, but for the M8 Competition it has been tuned to produce 616bhp and 750Nm of torque.
BMW M8 DealsThis enables the M8 to surge from 0-60mph in a fraction over three seconds, while BMW also claims it can do 0-124mph in just 10.6 seconds. The Convertible is marginally slower than the Coupe, but not noticeably – only taking 0.1 seconds longer to reach 60mph. Each version comes with a limited top speed of 155mph as standard, though this can be increased to 189mph with the optional M Driver Package.
The M8 comes with an xDrive all-wheel-drive system, though it has a bias to the rear wheels, which should help to cement it as a fantastic sports car. Power is delivered via an eight-speed M Steptronic automatic gearbox.
What trim options are available?
BMW will only offer the M8 in one ‘Competition’ trim level, with prices starting from £123,435 for the Coupe and £130,435 for the Convertible.
Standard equipment is very generous, though. In terms of exterior features, the M8 comes with 20-inch alloy wheels, adaptive LED headlights, a carbon roof and a distinctive gloss black rear spoiler.
Jump inside and you’ll find a full Merino leather interior, heated front seats, an Alcantara headliner, a rear-view camera with self-parking functionality and a harmon/kardon sound system.
What about personalisation?
BMW is very generous with its customisation programme. Starting with colours, buyers can choose from a comprehensive range – including bespoke ‘BMW Individual’ options. Highlights include Marina Bay Blue (£0), Almandine Brown Metallic (£1,065) and Motegi Red (£0). There is also a fantastic range of leather interior finishes available, too, with some varied colours offered – including dark orange and brown.
Next is the choice of interior trims, with buyers able to choose between carbon, a dark wood finish and Piano Black.
Further options available include the pricey M carbon ceramic brakes (£7,995), a carbon exterior package (£4,995). If you fancy having just about all the optional extras in one go – choose the £20,000 Ultimate Pack, which adds a Bowers and Wilkins diamond surround sound system, laser LED headlights and the aforementioned carbon pack, among other things.