The new BMW 8 Series convertible combines open-top, four-seater luxury with sportscar performance and handling, a spacious interior, and a superb soundtrack to match. It goes on sale from April, with on-the-road prices starting from €128,565.
Two engines will be offered at launch. First is a V8 petrol engine in the 530hp BMW M850i xDrive version and a 320hp six-cylinder diesel in the BMW 840d xDrive.
The second, the BMW 840d xDrive features a 3.0-litre straight-six diesel. This unit offers 320hp, a peak torque of 700Nm and will accelerate from zero to 100kph in 5.2 seconds.
Both engines meet the Euro 6d-TEMP standard. They channel their power through to the road via an eight-speed Steptronic Sport gearbox and the BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The M Sport differential is fitted as standard on the BMW M850i xDrive and, as well as improving traction, improves agility particularly when the car is exiting corners.
Using the new 8 Series platform and distinctive new design language, the new BMW 8 Series convertible marries elegance with sporting prowess. With an exterior length of 4,843mm, a width of 1,902mm and height of 1,339mm, along with a 2,822mm wheelbase and track widths of 1,619mm (front ), its dimensions match those of the BMW 8 Series coupé almost exactly.
The focus on exceptional body rigidity for the concept underpinning the BMW 8 Series means that only a small number of additional convertible-specific and weight-increasing measures were required.
The BMW 8 Series convertible cuts an impressive figure with both the roof up or down. The compartment for the soft-top roof causes the trailing edge of the car’s body to be slightly higher than that of the BMW 8 Series coupé. With the roof down the rear end appears extremely flat and low to the road. In addition, horizontal lines and light units extending into the flanks accentuate the width of the car. The third brake light embedded in the boot lid adds to the low-slung look.
Other model-specific features include a brace of contour lines on the boot, while the L-shaped rear lights are underscored by the line of the taillight bar that lights up uniformly. Twin exhaust trapezoidal tailpipes round off the lower section of the rear apron.
The BMW 8 Series convertible is equipped with adaptive LED headlights as standard. BMW Laserlights are available with variable road illumination and selective beam, as a cost option. Further scope for individualisation is offered with the chrome line and M carbon exterior package.
