The much-hyped BMW M8 is finally here.
Not only is the 2020 BMW M8 coming as a coupe, but BMW also saw fit to bring out its convertible cousin as well. These cars come in two flavors: the ‘normal’ BMW M8 and the more powerful ‘Competition’ models. Both pack the same 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 and more firepower than the current range-topping M850i.
Using the same powerplant as the BMW M5, that 4.4-liter twin-turbo engine puts out 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. In the competition, the M division wound the power up to 617 horsepower, while the torque figure remains the same. As with the M850i, all M8 models come fitted with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Thanks to the added grunt, however, BMW claims the M8 Competition Coupe can sprint to 60 mph in just 3.0 seconds flat. The coupe and convertible’s top speed, with the optional M Driver’s Package, is 189 mph.
You can make it rear-wheel drive
Another one of the BMW M5’s party tricks is the ability to send all the power to the rear wheels. That feature translates to the 2020 BMW M8, as it’s one of the car’s three drive modes. On top of 4WD and 4WD Sport, the driver can disengage the stability control and select 2WD to make it a rear-wheel drive car.
You’ll still find the rest of M division’s weapons-grade performance technology under the skin, beyond just using the M5’s engine and all-wheel drive system. BMW’s Active M differential also makes an appearance, as does the Adaptive M suspension and electromechanical Servotronic steering.
Unlike the M850i, the 2020 BMW M8 models get 395 mm (15.5-inch) drilled and vented brake discs in the front and 380 mm (15.0-inch) discs in the rear. If that’s not enough stopping power for your liking, there’s an optional M carbon ceramic brake option with larger front discs. The M8 also features the latest iteration of BMW’s brake-by-wire system, which succeeds vacuum-based braking components to save weight. That also lets the driver change the brake feel on demand. Like the all-wheel drive system, that may agitate those who want a more connected experience, but we’ll have to reserve judgment until we can actually drive the car.
Equipment and pricing
This is a top-tier BMW, so expect the standard range of driver assist technology. All 2020 BMW M8 models get BMW’s Head-Up Display, Driving Assistant, Live Cockpit Professional and Driving Assistant as standard fare. An M mode button on the center console lets the driver change between different control settings on a whim. It lets you change between Road and Sport settings in the standard M8, as well as Road, Sport or Track settings in the M8 Competition models.
You wouldn’t expect the M8 or its Competition versions to come cheap, and you’d absolutely be correct. The 2020 BMW M8 Coupe starts at $133,000 while the Convertible ups the price to $142,500 to start. Step up again to the M8 Competition Coupe and the price rises to $146,000. The M8 Competition Convertible tips the scales at $155,500.
Expensive? Yes, but you are getting a whole lot of power and technology for the money. If that is too expensive for your blood, the equally powerful M5 starts at $102,700. The less powerful, but still wildly capable M850i starts off at $111,900.
The M8 will go into production in July. While we wait for the M8 to arrive, check out its slightly slower brother below:
