BMW launches M8 Competition Coupé and M8 Competition Convertible

The BMW sub-division has opened online orders for the M8 Competition Coupé and M8 Competition Convertible, which will boast a 625bhp V8 powertrain, combined with the comfortable proportions of the more luxurious 8 Series. 

The most powerful engine ever developed for a BMW M car, the high-revving, twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 unit makes 625hp at 6,000rpm and 750Nm of torque at 5,800rpm thanks to two cross-bank exhaust manifolds, direct injection with increased pressure and cooling, and oil supply systems designed for driving at the limit. Stiffer engine mounts, BMW says, are said to increase the immediacy of turn-in and reduce unwanted engine noise into the cabin.

With this powertrain linked to an eight-speed M Steptronic gearbox, and power put to the road via a rear-wheel biased, switchable all-wheel-drive system, the M8 Coupé and Convertible promise supreme performance and optimised traction. It doesn’t sound half bad, either, thanks to twin 100mm tailpipes, which can be tuned via the M Sound Control button on the dash.

The two models can sprint from zero to 62mph in 3.2 seconds (Coupé) and 3.3 seconds (Convertible), reaching 124mph in 10.6 and 11.1 seconds respectively. With the M Driver’s Package specified, the electronically limited top speed of 155mph can be bypassed, allowing the car to reach 189mph. Both models boast combined fuel economy of around 26mpg.

A model-specific chassis with a low centre of gravity, exceptionally wide tracks and high torsional rigidity is the result of extensive testing at, among other tracks, the Nürburgring Nordschleife. It claims to offer the perfect combination of track performance and every-day driving and long-distance comfort. Adaptive suspension with electronically controlled dampers promises a ‘racing car feel’ but can be altered at the touch of a button. In fact, the driver is offered a breadth of adjustability across the model, with the option to adjust various settings for the engine, suspension, steering and braking via the Setup button on the centre console. Efficient, Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus are just some of the options offered across the board.  

The models will also feature variable ratio steering, an integrated braking system plus a ‘Dynamic’ driving mode, which adjusts the ABS and braking control to allow a greater degree of wheel slip.

When it comes to looks, the M8 is typically BMW, albeit with unique features such as the double-bubble contour of the Coupé’s M carbon roof, reminiscent of classic racing cars. Meanwhile, the Convertible’s multi-layer soft-top opens and closes in 15 seconds while driving at up to 31mph.  

Adaptive LED headlights, side air intakes with integrated M gills and M-specific design features pepper the cars’ exteriors.

The Competition models ride on bicolour, star-spoke 20-inch forged alloy wheels, while an M-specific rear apron incorporating a contrasting diffuser inlay, black chrome M Sport twin exhaust tailpipes, and a black boot spoiler complete the look. 

On the inside, red accents, perforated 3D quilting and bicolour leather/Alcantara trim bring luxury to the cabin, while M logo stitching throughout serves as a reminder of the car’s potential. 

Technology is prevalent throughout the interior, including BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant (activated via the spoken prompt “Hey BMW”), a head-up display, a new control system and a number of both standard and optional state-of-the-art driver assistance systems.

The all-new BMW M8 Coupé and Convertible are on sale now, priced from £123,435 and £130,435 respectively, without options.