The BMW M8 is a monster among boulevard cruisers, with powerful dimensions and tremendous power. It is based on the normal BMW 8-series and is available as a coupe, convertible, or Gran Coupe. Every M8 model comes with a powerful twin-turbo V8 engine mated to a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, as well as a rear-drive-only mode ideal for hanging the tail out. The M8 Competition model boosts performance even further with more horsepower, an improved chassis, and other custom features. Despite its naturally aggressive personality, the M8 is a delightful daily driving vehicle. Its cabin is exquisitely designed and packed with luxurious features and desirable technologies. While its outward style will not appeal to extroverts, and BMW’s newly implemented adjustable brake-pedal feel is unappealing, the M8 is a very capable and surprisingly comfortable vehicle.
Engine
The M8 is powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 with 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Another 17 ponies are generated by the Competition variants. The M8 is equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system with the ability to disconnect power to the front axle. In comparison to the M8, the Comp versions have a stronger suspension, a sportier-sounding exhaust system, a separate “Track” drive mode, and unique wheels. Despite a less exciting exhaust note than rivals from Mercedes-AMG, the BMW is blindingly quick, and its automatic mode is incredibly smart. Although the all-wheel-drive system is designed to deliver rear-drive thrills, inducing power slides is best left to an empty parking lot. The M8 Competition delivered a smooth ride that belied its track-focused talents.
But don’t mistake its pleasantness for a sign of weakness. The M8 chassis has excellent grip and transmits some sensation to the thick-rimmed steering wheel. The M8’s blend of speed and nimbleness makes it an appealing companion whenever the road opens out or becomes curvy. Unfortunately, the braking system’s adjustable pedal is uninspiring.
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Performance
The M8 Competition coupe can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds and cover a quarter-mile in 11.2 seconds at 125 mph. There’s a lot of power here. The brakes are just as powerful, stopping our car at 106 feet from 60 mph. This vehicle is also quick and easy to go around town with. This car is larger and heavier than most in its class, yet the figures don’t show it.
The M8 handles surprisingly well, tracking through turns with a lot of grip and confidence. The steering lacks the engagement found in other sports cars of this calibre, but the M8 is responsive and goes where you point it. When you aren’t attempting to launch into space, the M8’s easy power and smooth-shifting transmission seem simply exquisite.
The ride comfort is astounding. Whether you’re on a bumpy road or a smooth highway, the suspension does an excellent job of regulating motion and softening hits. It’s even comfortable enough to use in Sport mode most of the time.
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Interior
The interior design and passenger space of the M8 are nearly comparable to those of the normal models, as with most BMW M vehicles. Although the design isn’t particularly inventive, the leather surfaces are exquisitely stitched together, and the accent pieces are properly upmarket. Every M8 includes programmable ambient lighting, a 12.1-inch digital gauge cluster, heated and ventilated front seats, a Nappa leather-covered dashboard, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and wireless charging as standard equipment. Its cabin provides plenty of space for front-seat passengers but treats those relegated to the cramped back seat like second-class citizens. Those looking for an M8 and often transporting more than two individuals might consider the significantly roomier, four-door M8 Gran Coupe.
Apart from tight parking spots owing to the long doors, getting in and out of the front seats is simple. Access to the rear seats is difficult, but that is typical of a two-plus-two coupe. There is plenty of space for front passengers, as well as lots of adjustability range for the driver. Again, the back seats aren’t particularly large or comfortable, but they’re far superior to others in this class.
Except for wide windscreen pillars that sometimes obstruct your view through left turns, visibility out front is mostly good. Because of the broad back pillars, the over-the-shoulder perspective is further hampered. Blind-spot sensors are extremely useful while driving, and a high-resolution screen and 360-degree video significantly improve parking scenarios.
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Infotainment
Every M8 has a 10.25-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dashboard that serves as the centrepiece of BMW’s iDrive 7.0 infotainment system. A rotary controller and physical buttons on the middle console supplement the main display. The interface has sharp graphics and rapid reactions, but some of the menus are densely packed and require the driver to move their gaze away from the road. Nonetheless, the system’s voice commands function effectively, and gesture controls can be added as an option. Apple CarPlay but not Android Auto are desirable standard features, as is a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.
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Fuel Economy
The EPA estimates that the M8 Competition coupe will get 17 mpg in combined driving (15 city/21 highway). This is appropriate for the class. Owners of these automobiles are unlikely to be concerned about fuel efficiency.
Safety Features
Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology
- Available blind-spot monitoring
Verdict
BMW’s tour de force is the M8 Competition. It demonstrates that BMW still has what it takes to create a beast of a performance car while still providing pleasing comfort and elegance. The M8 may not have been designed from the ground up to be exotic, but it is capable of providing a mystical driving experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the M8 and the M8 competition?
The BMW M850i’s 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 produces 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. The BMW M8 Competition, on the other hand, has its own 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Therefore, torque is the same for both cars, with the M8 producing about a hundred more horsepower.
Is the BMW M8 expensive to maintain?
During the first ten years of ownership, a BMW 8 Series will cost approximately $14,548 in maintenance and repairs. This is $2,587 more than the industry average for luxury sedan models. During that time, there is also a 40.39% probability that an 8 Series will require a major repair.
How much does a BMW M8 cost in the United States?
The M8 Competition Gran Coupe and M8 Competition Coupe start at $130,000, while the M8 Competition convertible costs $139,500. The M8 carbon front bucket seats ($3,800) and carbon-ceramic brakes ($8,150) are exclusive to the M8 Competition.
Which BMW is the fastest?
The BMW M5 Competition is the company’s quickest production automobile, travelling from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds.
