The BMW 8 Series concept was unveiled with much fanfare in 2017 and previewed the production spec model that was to follow. But leaked images emerged on the internet have revealed the exterior of the new BMW 8 Series coupe, well ahead of its official debut later this year. The all-new model replaces the 6 Series in BMW's line-up and will be positioned above the 7 Series luxury saloon as the German automaker's new halo offering. While the BMW 8 Series Concept had a very powerful and angry appearance, the production model gets toned down details bringing elegance to the coupe.
Also Read: BMW 8 Series Concept Breaks Cover
(The BMW 8 Series Concept had an aggressive styling that has been toned down)
The BMW 8 Series concept was anything but subtle with its big and imposing design theme coupled with lots of aggression. The production spec version loses the aggressive nature in favour of a classy appeal. The design is reminiscent of the concept with the massive kidney grille induced in chrome, flanked by the sharp swept back headlamps that get full LEDs. The front bumper though retains the sporty appeal with massive air intakes. The massive hood gives the upcoming BMW 8 Series a strong visual presence and has that stately feel to it.
(The BMW 8 Series gets a carbon fibre diffuser at the rear with massive LED taillights)
At the rear, the production spec 8 Series gets wide and flat styling with a ducktail spoiler, massive wraparound LED taillights, slim vertical air vents and a carbon fibre diffuser with twin trapezoidal exhausts. Unlike the concept's rear that had a more seamless design that integrated with the rest of the body, the design on the production model sticks out a bit. That said, we'll reserve our observations until the model is officially revealed.
The BMW 8 Series coupe will be based on the automaker's new CLAR architecture that underpins the new generation 7 Series. The company is expected to churn out a host of versions including the 840i and 850i, as per reports. A super fast M860i xDrive M Performance variant is confirmed and will come with the mammoth 6.6-litre twin-turbo V12 engine that is currently powers the M760Li xDrive M Performance.
(The BMW 8 Series will come equipped the best of luxury as the company's new halo offering)
Diesel iterations will include the 830d with a 3.0-litre straight-six engine, while a plug-in hybrid version is also said to be in the works. BMW has also confirmed there will be an M badged version with loads of carbon fibre thrown in the mix, while power will come from a 4.0-litre twin-turbo, V8 petrol motor seen on the new M5 and should make in excess of 500 bhp. And yes, there's the M8 GTE race car as well, which will mark BMW's return to 24 Hours of Le Mans since 2011.
(Despite its overwhelming design, the 8 Series concept gets a well integrated rear)
The all-new 2019 BMW 8 Series coupe is nothing like the 6 Series ever was and will set a new benchmark for the automaker in the luxury space. While BMW is yet to confirm, the 8 Series coupe is expected to make its debut at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. Nevertheless, the wait does not look very far now.
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