The unconventional but predictable transformation of the M5 has left many individuals clamoring for the previous-generation mannequin. The “F90” is gone now, changed by a a lot heavier and electrified “G90.” It seems that almost everybody on the Web appears to dislike it. Nonetheless, it’s prudent to attend for journalists and early adopters to share their impressions on how the M5 drives. Solely then can we formulate a extra educated opinion.
However let’s say you’ve already made up your thoughts and might’t fathom the thought of an M5 that weighs 5,390 kilos. Nicely, I’m right here to remind you that the M8 Gran Coupe is a major 910 lbs lighter, tipping the scales at “solely” 4,480 lbs. It avoids cumbersome electrification by counting on the confirmed “S63” engine. This previous twin-turbo, 4.4-liter V8 is progressively being phased out by BMW in favor of the newer “S68.”
In my opinion, it has a extra refined design in comparison with the new M5, and retaining the previous-generation dashboard is a major benefit. The M8 Gran Coupe is from the “previous guard” of BMWs, so it nonetheless provides an honest variety of conventional controls. Whereas this may occasionally appear conventional, I want standard buttons over having to rely nearly solely on a display. Moreover, the digital instrument cluster is neatly built-in into the dashboard, moderately than protruding like a sore thumb.
I perceive that the M8 Gran Coupe can’t immediately substitute the previous M5. The “F93” is extra of a grand tourer, making it softer and with an emphasis on luxurious. Nonetheless, in the event you suppose the brand new M5 is compromised from day one because of its plug-in hybrid setup, this swoopy sedan might be a extra becoming different.
BMW M8 Gran Coupe Gross sales Aren’t Nice
Judging by gross sales, the M8 Gran Coupe hasn’t gained traction. BMW doesn’t launch separate numbers for M fashions, however the second-generation 8 Collection failed to fulfill expectations. Via September 2024, deliveries dropped by 7.4% in the US, falling to simply 4,058 models. It’s value noting that these figures embody all flavors of the 8er: Coupe, Convertible, Gran Coupe, and their M8 counterparts. So sure, M8 GC gross sales probably aren’t excessive.
Granted, the M8 Gran Coupe is dear. A base 2025 BMW M5 is $123,275 earlier than choices, whereas an M8 Gran Coupe begins at $140,975. This $17,700 distinction was much more pronounced when the previous M5 was round. Earlier than being discontinued, you might’ve purchased an “F90” for as little as $111,895—although ‘low’ is relative on this section. Nonetheless, there are most likely some good offers available, contemplating an M8 Gran Coupe doesn’t precisely fly off the cabinets.
There’s nonetheless time. We’re listening to BMW received’t finish manufacturing of the “F93” till October 2025, however the order books are more likely to shut a number of months beforehand. Even after that occurs, it’s best to nonetheless be capable of discover one in inventory for a number of months, albeit possibly not in your most popular spec. As soon as it’s gone, it’s gone for good. A 3rd-generation mannequin isn’t deliberate, no less than not with combustion engines. There is likely to be a totally electrical 8 Collection Gran Coupe in 2029 on the Neue Klasse platform.
The BMW V8 Sedan Lives, For Now
When you’re open to plug-in hybrids, the V8 sedan nonetheless has a few years forward. The G90 M5 is anticipated to remain in manufacturing till February 2031. BMW M has pledged to maintain the eight-cylinder engine in its lineup till no less than the top of the last decade, so there’s substance to this report. If solely BMW would launch a brand new M550i earlier than it’s discontinued, it will be a welcome addition. Must you need an M sports activities sedan with a bigger V8 that avoids electrification, time is working out.
We mustn’t ignore the 760i if a V8 BMW sedan with out hybridization is what you’re after. Nonetheless, BMW isn’t promoting it in Europe because of stricter emissions rules. It will’ve made sense for the M760e to have a V8 as nicely, even in PHEV guise, however it’s solely obtainable with a six-cylinder mannequin.
Seeing the glass half full, the M8 Gran Coupe’s demise received’t mark the top for M sedans with pure combustion engines. The M3 “G80” is reportedly sticking round till February 2027, when manufacturing is rumored to finish. Higher but, a next-generation mannequin internally codenamed “G84” is supposedly coming in 2027 or 2028 with an inline-six engine.
