2019 BMW 8-Series Coupe debuts as 6-Series coupe replacement

A year after the arrival of the concept, BMW’s flagship 8-Series finally reveals itself, although it’s not the full-size S-Class fighter it was expected to be. The legendary 8–Series moniker went defunct in 1999 when the big V8/V12 Coupe was discontinued due to poor sales. But while the old one flopped at the time, it is now considered a classic. However, the new model looks to be more of typical BMW, especially as it is a replacement for the 6-Series coupe.

The design of the 2019 BMW 8-Series is similar to that of the Concept 8–Series that debuted last year. The sharpness of the concept’s design gets toned down a fair bit though. The fascia of the car is dominated by the LED headlights that come as standard or the optional Laser lights and a narrow version of the brand’s signature kidney grille. The double-bubble roof leads to a swooping rear. The tail lights are elongated like that of the newly-revealed 2019 BMW X5.

The 8-Series features exterior dimensions of 4843 mm in length, 1902mm in width, 1341mm in height and a wheelbase of 2822mm, making it slightly shorter, wider and lower than the outgoing 6-Series coupe.

Inside, there is a 10.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen that sits atop the centre console. Luxuries in the interior include wireless device charging, a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, stainless steel trim, and glass switches.

In the M850i xDrive, a 4.4-litre biturbo V8 channels 523 hp and 750 Nm through an eight-speed automatic gearbox. This powers the car from 0 to 100 kph in 3.7 seconds. If frugality gets prime concern there is the 840d xDrive that comes with a 3.0-litre biturbo inline-six engine hooked up to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combo outputs 315 hp and 680 Nm of torque which is healthy enough to propel the 8-Series from 0 to 100 kph in 4.9 seconds. The top speed of both the variants is electronically limited to 250 kph.

The BMW 8-Series will hit Western markets by the end of this year and it will be followed by an M-Version and a convertible. It should debut in the UAE and GCC by early next year.