BMW M8 prototype and 8-Series concept revealed

Sporting a gorgeous silhouette, the BMW 8-Series Concept debuted at the 2017 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. Minus a few details, the concept should pretty much represent the production BMW 8-Series that is expected to hit markets in 2018. Resurrecting the “8-Series” moniker, an M8 version has also already been announced, with the prototype shown at the ‘Ring.

The concept sports a massive kidney grill up front which is flanked by sleek laser headlamps. The front bumper and fenders ferry massive air intakes which complement the muscular flared wheel arches. The even sleeker tail lamps extend to the boot lid which gives the car a wider visual appearance. The trapezoidal exhaust tips are built with the same design philosophy. The side mirrors are impractically thin and the door handles are pretty much non-existent, typical for a concept. Finished in a “Barcelona Grey Liquid” paint coat, the 8-Series concept rides on 21-inch wheels exclusively created for it.

The cabin reflects the same fluidic design of the exterior. The leather wrapped seats are made around a carbon fibre shell. The Merino leather is finished in Dark Brown and Fjord White. Carbon fiber and aluminium are used to accent the leather while the Swarovski glass on the iDrive controller gives the cabin an extra-premium feel.

What goes under the hood of the 8-Series? Well, that’s a mystery for now. BMW hasn’t given out any details regarding the same but we expect some units from the top tier of the BMW engine shelf to make their way into their new top dog. BMW has a list of V8 and 6-cylinder engines to choose from. The V12 engine from the 760Li sedan might also call the 8-Series home but in the midst of all this green car commotion, it can never be considered a certainty. The BMW 8-Series, when it’s released will look to be the luxury coupe that BMW has always missed in its lineup. BMW will now have a worthy contender to take on the Mercedes S-Class Coupe, but interestingly, they have already ended production of the smaller 6-Series coupe earlier this year.

A camouflaged M8 prototype was also unveiled at the 2017 Nürburgring 24hr race, sporting larger air intakes, modified brakes and quad-exhausts. There will also be an M8 GTE race-car version for the 2018 FIA World Endurance Championship.