The second-generation of the BMW 8 Series consists of the BMW G14 (convertible version), BMW G15 (two-door coupe version) grand tourers and BMW G16 (four-door "Gran Coupe" sedan version) executive cars (E). The G14/G15/G16 generation has been in production since 2018, and is often collectively referred to as the G15.

BMW 8 Series (G14/G15/G16)
2019 BMW M850i xDrive convertible (G14)
Overview
Also calledAlpina B8
ProductionJuly 2018[1]–present
Model years2019–present
AssemblyGermany: Dingolfing
DesignerJohn Buckingham (G14, G15)[2]
Jacobo Domínguez (G16)[3]
Body and chassis
Class
Body style
Layout
Powertrain
Engine
Electric motor8 kW (11 hp) electric boost (Diesel engine)
Transmission8-speed automatic
Hybrid drivetrainMHEV (840d)
Dimensions
Wheelbase
  • G14/G15: 2,822 mm (111.1 in)
  • G16: 3,023 mm (119.0 in)
Length
  • G14/G15: 4,843 mm (190.7 in)
  • G16: 5,072 mm (199.7 in)
Width1,902–1,932 mm (74.9–76.1 in)
Height1,341–1,397 mm (52.8–55.0 in)
Chronology
Predecessor

It is the successor to the BMW 6 Series (F06/F12/F13) range and marks the return of the BMW 8 Series nameplate after nearly two decades, which was previously produced as the E31 until its discontinuation in 1999.[4]

The G15 is powered by turbocharged six-cylinder petrol, six-cylinder diesel, and V8 petrol engines, all mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. While the initial release of models all included all-wheel drive, a rear-wheel drive version of the base 840i and 840d was later made available for sale.

The M8 models (designated F91/F92/F93) were unveiled in June 2019 and are powered by the twin-turbocharged BMW S63 V8 petrol engine.[5]

Development and launch

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The BMW 8 Series is based on the BMW Concept 8 Series that debuted at the 2017 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este,[6] and featured a new design language and iteration of the iDrive system.[7]

The production version was officially unveiled at the 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 15, 2018.[8]

The convertible version of the 8 Series (G14) was launched in November 2018. The convertible features a folding cloth roof that operates in 15 seconds and can function up to 50 km/h (31 mph). Changes over the coupé include; new cross struts, new panels for the underbody and aluminium roll over bars for added safety. Initial models for the convertible include the M850i xDrive and 840d xDrive. The convertible weighs an additional 100 kg (220 lb) more than the coupé.[9]

Sales of the 8 Series commenced in November 2018.[10]

The high-performance variant BMW Concept M8 Gran Coupé was later introduced in June 2019 at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show.[11][12]

The Gran Coupé sedan (G16) of the 8 Series was announced in June 2019 and went on sale in September 2019. It has the same powertrains as the coupé and convertible, but it is the first 8 Series available with a six-cylinder engine for the United States.[13] The 8 Series Gran Coupé has enlarged rear passenger space dimensions including improved headroom compared to the 6 Series Gran Coupé (F06) that it replaced.[14] Like its predecessor, the 8 Series Gran Coupé is seen as a flashier sportier alternative to its platform-mate, the more traditional BMW 7 Series (G11) sedan, and it competes with the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé and Porsche Panamera.[15][16][17]

Body and chassis

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The production model is based on the modular CLAR platform and has a design largely unchanged from the Concept 8 Series.[18] The wheelbase of the Gran Coupe is 201 mm (7.9 in) longer than the coupe and convertible models.[13]

The 8 Series utilises a double-wishbone front suspension and rear multi-link suspension.[19] The car uses BMW's Carbon Core technology, integrating carbon-fibre within its chassis.[20] GPS navigation data is used for the 8-speed automatic transmission to predict upshifts or downshifts when approaching a junction,[21] and cameras along with sensors are utilised to determine appropriate shutdowns for the engine start-stop system.[22]

Most trims feature the xDrive all-wheel drive system, although the base 840i and 840d have rear-wheel drive available. The 850i xDrive is available worldwide, while the 840d xDrive is only available in Europe.[23]

The official kerb weight (measured using the EU methodology) for the 850i xDrive is 1,965 kg (4,332 lb) for the coupe version and 2,090 kg (4,608 lb) for the convertible version.[24][25] The kerb weight for the 840d xDrive is 1,890 kg (4,167 lb) coupe version and 2,030 kg (4,475 lb) for the convertible version.[24][25]

Equipment

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Standard equipment includes an 8-speed ZF 8HP torque-converter automatic transmission,[26] Vernasca leather, a heads-up display, adaptive suspension, power steering, and split folding rear seats.[27] The 8 Series also features a 260 mm (10 in) display with iDrive 178 and 312 mm (7.0 and 12.3 in) digital instrument cluster.[28] All 8 series models can be fitted with M Performance Parts. These include a sport steering wheel, M rims and carbon fibre parts. The M850i xDrive receives 20-inch wheels as standard and aerodynamic elements such as larger air intakes and a front lip spoiler.[29]

Available options includes Microsoft Office 365 and Skype for Business integration, laser headlights,[30] a display key fob, and a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System.[31] Near field communication can also be used to unlock the car via a smartphone. An M Sport package is also available on the 840d xDrive model and features 19-inch alloy wheels, an enhanced braking system, and a re-designed sports steering wheel.[32]

Models

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Petrol engines

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Model Years Engine Power Torque 0–100 km/h
(0–62 mph)
840i /
840i xDrive
2019– 3.0 L B58
turbo I6
250 kW (340 PS; 335 hp)
at 5,000–6,500 rpm
500 N⋅m (369 lb⋅ft)
at 1,600–4,500 rpm
5.3 seconds /
4.9 seconds
M850i xDrive 2018– 4.4 L N63
twin-turbo V8
390 kW (530 PS; 523 hp)
at 5,500–6,000 rpm
750 N⋅m (553 lb⋅ft)
at 1,800–4,600 rpm
3.7 seconds
M8 2019– 4.4 L S63
twin-turbo V8
441 kW (600 PS; 591 hp)
at 6,000 rpm
750 N⋅m (553 lb⋅ft)
at 1,800–5,700 rpm
3.3 seconds
M8 Competition 2020– 4.4 L S63
twin-turbo V8
460 kW (625 PS; 617 hp)
at 6,000 rpm
750 N⋅m (553 lb⋅ft)
at 1,800–5,860 rpm
2.7 seconds
Alpina B8 2021– 4.4 L N63
twin-turbo V8
456 kW (620 PS; 612 hp)
at 5,550-6,500 rpm
800 N⋅m (590 lb⋅ft)
at 2,000–5,000 rpm
3.3 seconds

Diesel engines

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Model Years Engine Power Torque 0–100 km/h
(0–62 mph)
840d xDrive 2018– 3.0 L B57 + electric boost MHEV
turbo I6
250 kW (340 PS; 335 hp)
at 4,400 rpm
700 N⋅m (516 lb⋅ft)
at 1,750–2,250 rpm
4.8 seconds

Special models

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BMW M8

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The M8 version was introduced in June 2019 and is the road-legal version of the M8 GTE introduced at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show. The body styles for the M8 are the 2-door convertible (F91 model code), 2-door coupé (F92 model code) and 4-door "Gran Coupé" fastback (F93 model code).

The M8 uses the 4.4 L (269 cu in) BMW S63 twin-turbocharged V8 engine, with an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission and a 7-speed single clutch with an all-wheel drive (xDrive) system shared with the F90 M5. The M8 is available in standard and Competition variants: the Competition models receive a slightly more powerful engine, a carbon fibre roof, firmer suspension, forged alloy wheels, and a variety of other enhancements.[5]

In reference to the M8 Gran Coupé Concept from 2018, the first eight vehicles of the production series of the M8 Gran Coupé were styled in the same colors as the concept vehicle and sold as M8 Gran Coupé First Edition.[33]

Alpina

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The ALPINA B8 based on the 8 series Gran Coupé was launched in 2021.[34] Aside from the traditional Alpina alloy wheels and some minor details such as quad, chromed exhaust tips and Alpina Blue brake calipers, there is little that sets the subdued Alpina apart from the outside.[35]

Night Sky Edition

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In January 2019 the one-off version M850i xDrive Coupé Night Sky Edition was unveiled for the 25th anniversary of BMW Individual. The vehicle has a special paint and interior surfaces of the material of the Muonionalusta-meteorite. In addition, a meteor shower is cited. The coupé had its public debut at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. For the time being, the coupe remains in the possession of BMW.[36]

Production

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The 8 Series is produced at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing in Germany.[37] The following are the production figures for the 8 Series:

Year Production
2018 923[38]
2019 12,219[39]
2020 20,703[40]
2021 > 14,165[41][42][43][44]
2022
Total: > 48,010
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References

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  1. ^ "Start of production for new BMW 8 Series Coupé at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing". www.press.bmwgroup.com.
  2. ^ Baker, Erin (2017-07-30). "Five minutes with new 8‑Series designer, John Buckingham". www.goodwood.com. Retrieved 2022-09-02.
  3. ^ "Patent Images". United States Patent and Trademark Office. Retrieved 2022-09-02.
  4. ^ Trop, Jaclyn. "BMW 8 Series Coupe Returns After A 19-Year Hiatus". Forbes. Retrieved 2018-06-15.
  5. ^ a b "The New 2020 BMW M8 Coupe and Convertible". www.press.bmwgroup.com (Press release). 2019-06-05. Retrieved 2024-06-03.
  6. ^ "The best photo gallery of the BMW Concept 8 Series at Villa d'Este". BMW BLOG. 2017-05-31. Retrieved 2018-06-15.
  7. ^ "BMW Concept 8-series: Eight Is Greater than Six". Car and Driver. Retrieved 2018-06-15.
  8. ^ Attwood, James (2018-06-15). "2018 BMW 8 Series revealed at Le Mans". Autocar. Archived from the original on 2018-06-16.
  9. ^ Pattni, Vijay. "This is the new BMW 8 Series Convertible". Top Gear. Archived from the original on 2 November 2018. Retrieved 2 November 2018.
  10. ^ "This is the brand new BMW 8 Series Coupe". Top Gear. 2018-06-15. Retrieved 2018-06-15.
  11. ^ "BMW M8 Gran Coupe Concept unveiled at Geneva". Evo. Retrieved 2018-06-15.
  12. ^ "The BMW M8 Competition is the priciest M car ever". Top Gear. 2019-06-05. Retrieved 2019-06-07.
  13. ^ a b White, Annie (18 June 2019). "The 2020 BMW 8-Series Gran Coupe Is Handsome and Spacious". Car and Driver. Retrieved 18 June 2019.
  14. ^ "Review: Did BMW Just Save the Four-Door Sport Sedan?". InsideHook.
  15. ^ Kacher, Georg (2016-10-12). "7 vs. 8: BMW Insiders Clash Over Flagship Future". Retrieved 2020-08-20.
  16. ^ Duff, Mike (2019-10-02). "2020 BMW 840i Gran Coupe Is the Prettier and Practical 8-Series". Retrieved 2020-08-20.
  17. ^ Scherr, Elana (2021-04-12). "Tested: 2021 Audi RS7 vs. 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe vs. 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT63 S". Retrieved 2021-11-09.
  18. ^ "New BMW 8 Series Set to Return in 2018". www.autocar.co.uk. Retrieved 2018-06-15.
  19. ^ "BMW's flagship luxury coupe returns after a 20-year hiatus". Digital Trends. 2018-06-15. Retrieved 2018-06-15.
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  23. ^ "BMW 8 series will offer 320-hp diesel in Europe". europe.autonews.com. 2018-06-15. Retrieved 2018-06-25.
  24. ^ a b "The all-new BMW 8 Series Coupe". www.press.bmwgroup.com. Retrieved 2018-06-25.
  25. ^ a b "The new BMW 8 Series Convertible". www.bmwgroup.com. Retrieved 26 October 2019.
  26. ^ "8' G15 840dX Autom.trans.GA8HP76X - all-wheel drive". www.realoem.com. Retrieved 26 October 2019.
  27. ^ "New "dream car" BMW 8 Series unveiled". Pistonheads. Retrieved 2018-06-15.
  28. ^ Taylor, Michael (2018-06-16). "BMW 8 Series Coupe revealed - motoring.com.au". motoring.com.au. Retrieved 2018-06-15.
  29. ^ "2019 BMW 8 Series Coupe First Look". Edmunds. Retrieved 2018-06-15.
  30. ^ "BMW 8 Series Coupe". www.bmw.com. Retrieved 20 August 2020.
  31. ^ "2019 BMW 8 Series official: M850i xDrive packs 523hp V8". SlashGear. 2018-06-15. Retrieved 2018-06-15.
  32. ^ "The BMW 8 Series Coupe Has Debuted And It's Stunning". Top Speed. Retrieved 2018-06-15.
  33. ^ "Die BMW M8 Gran Coupé First Edition 1-OF-8".
  34. ^ Capparella, Joey (2021-03-24). "2022 BMW Alpina B8 Gran Coupe Combines the 8-Series' Best Elements". Car and Driver. Retrieved 2021-10-31.
  35. ^ Paul, Steven (2023-08-21). "2024 BMW ALPINA B8 Gran Coupe Review - Simply Greatness". BMW BLOG. Retrieved 2024-06-03.
  36. ^ "BMW Individual M850i Night Sky Will Make You See Stars". motor1. 2019-01-03. Retrieved 2019-06-22.
  37. ^ Panait, Mircea (2018-07-06). "2019 BMW 8 Series Coupe Enters Production at Dingolfing Plant". www.autoevolution.com. Retrieved 2018-08-25.
  38. ^ "BMW Group Annual Report 2018". www.press.bmwgroup.com. Retrieved 2019-06-20.
  39. ^ "BMW Group Annual Report 2019" (PDF). BMW. 2020-01-01. p. 66.
  40. ^ "BMW Group Annual Report 2020" (PDF). BMW. 2020-01-01. p. 144.
  41. ^ "BMW 8-SERIES EUROPE SALES FIGURES". CarSalesBase.
  42. ^ "BMW 8-Series US Sales Figures". CarFigures.
  43. ^ "BMW 8-Series Canada Sales Figures". CarFigures.
  44. ^ "BMW Group Annual Report 2021" (PDF). BMW. 2020-01-01. p. 111. (For 2021, production numbers for the 7 & 8 Series were merged for a total of 62,628 units.)