The BMW 8 Sequence acquired a gentle refresh in 2022, extending the grand tourer’s lifecycle. But when we comply with BMW’s normal seven-year manufacturing cycle—and take the rising rumors into consideration—the 8 Sequence as we all know it’s on its manner out. Insiders recommend that manufacturing might finish in spring 2026, although very like the M8 Coupe’s discontinuation, the phase-out could possibly be staggered throughout completely different physique types. With no confirmed plans for a next-generation 8 Sequence (extra on that sooner or later), now’s the time to dream. Some markets, like Japan, have already given the 8 Sequence a correct send-off. However what else might BMW do to make it really unforgettable?
A Misunderstood Mannequin
Very like its predecessor, the unique E31 8 Sequence, the current-generation 8 Sequence has been misunderstood. It debuted with a contemporary but pretty secure design, avoiding daring and divisive styling decisions like outsized kidney grilles or break up headlights. As a substitute, its elegant curves have been paying homage to the earlier Fxx era BMW fashions, a design period now praised for its cohesion and timeless enchantment. Despite the fact that we referred to as it too secure on the time.
Inside, the 8 Sequence stays refreshingly analog for 2025. No huge curved show, no lacking iDrive controller, and—most significantly—actual bodily buttons that make utilizing easy capabilities easy. The inside additionally exudes high quality, sitting just under the 7 Sequence in luxurious, with premium leather-based and wealthy trims taking priority over the plastic-heavy strategy seen in some newer fashions. And if we’re speaking peak luxurious, the ALPINA B8 Gran Coupe stays in a league of its personal.
Finest Engines BMW Provides Right this moment
BMW didn’t maintain again when it got here to the engine lineup. From clean, highly effective six-cylinder diesels and petrol engines (B58 FTW) to twin-turbo V8s, the 8 Sequence delivered efficiency in any respect ranges. Paired with the ZF 8-speed computerized, it supplied easy acceleration, whether or not on a protracted highway journey or a spirited backroad drive. Monitor functionality? It had that too as Invoice Auberlen as soon as proved us. However all this got here at a value.
The Value of Exclusivity
Proudly owning an 8 Sequence was by no means for the budget-conscious. Right here’s how the pricing stacked up:
- 840i Coupe and Gran Coupe – Beginning at $90,800
- 840i Convertible – Beginning at $100,500
- M850i V8-powered Coupe & Gran Coupe – $106,300
- M850i V8 Convertible – $116,000
A premium worth, little doubt. However BMW typically softened the blow with incentives of as much as $5,500, plus extra supplier reductions.
A Future Basic within the Making
Regardless of its price ticket, the G15/G16/G17 8 Sequence has all of the components to turn out to be a future basic—identical to the E31 8 Sequence earlier than it. And BMW has a chance to cement its legacy with a ultimate version mannequin. They’ve finished it earlier than. The M850i xDrive Coupe First Version was a main instance. In-built restricted numbers (400 models) at BMW Dingolfing between April and June 2019, it featured:
- Frozen Barcelona Blue Metallic paint from BMW Particular person
- Excessive Gloss Shadow Line trim
- Merino leather-based inside in Ivory White/Evening Blue
- M leather-based steering wheel & Alcantara roof liner in Evening Blue
The formulation for a particular farewell version is already there. All BMW must do is refine it or just copy it. The First Version fashions have been fairly particular and uncommon.
How BMW May Make It Particular
BMW Particular person presents a treasure trove of distinctive colours, just like the gorgeous Salève Vert from the Idea M8 Gran Coupe. With ALPINA formally integrating into BMW on the finish of this yr, they may even faucet into Lavalina leather-based for an ultra-luxurious inside. Need to push the boundaries?
- Supply high-quality walnut anthracite wooden trim or the woven carbon fiber from the XM Idea.
- Improve the audio system—the Bowers & Wilkins setup from the 7 Sequence can be a straightforward drop-in.
- Design a set of unique wheels, add delicate badging, and even embody a customized baggage set for the trunk.
Add all this stuff and extra, and you may already think about this on the garden at Legends of the Autobahn in 30 years from now. Sure, it could be costly. However some issues are value it. The ground is yours, BMW. Make it occur.
