The BMW M8 stands as a pinnacle of engineering in the world of luxury sports cars. As part of BMW’s iconic M series, it combines raw power with elegant design, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who crave both speed and sophistication. In 2025, the BMW M8 continues to evolve, offering models like the BMW M8 Competition, BMW M8 Coupe, BMW M8 Gran Coupe, and BMW M8 Convertible. Whether you’re drawn to its thunderous V8 engine or its sleek, aerodynamic body, this BMW performance car delivers an unforgettable driving experience. In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore everything from its history to its future, helping you decide if the BMW M8 is the right luxury sports car for you.
History and Background of the BMW M8
The story of the BMW M8 begins in the early 1990s, when BMW engineers secretly developed a prototype based on the E31 8 Series Coupe. This early M8 was envisioned as a flagship model with a high-revving V12 engine, but economic concerns and market shifts led to its cancellation. It remained a legend among car fans, hidden away until BMW revealed it years later.
Fast forward to 2018, and BMW revived the M8 name with the debut of the M8 GTE race car, a bold move that was followed shortly after by the introduction of the production version. This marked the return of the 8 Series lineup after a nearly 20-year hiatus. The modern BMW M8, introduced in 2019, is based on the G14/G15/G16 platform and positions itself as the top-tier model in BMW’s grand tourer lineup. It’s not just a faster 8 Series; it’s a full M division creation, blending track-ready performance with everyday usability.
Over the years, the BMW M8 has seen subtle updates. A 2022 facelift brought refreshed styling, larger infotainment screens, and new color options, enhancing its appeal in the competitive luxury performance car market. Today, it holds a special place in BMW’s M series, sitting above models like the M5 and M4 as the ultimate expression of speed and luxury. With roots in racing and a focus on innovation, the M8 embodies BMW’s “Ultimate Driving Machine” philosophy.
Exterior Design: Sleek, Aggressive, and Aerodynamic
The BMW M8’s exterior is a masterclass in modern automotive design. Its long hood, short overhangs, and wide stance give it a predatory look that’s both elegant and intimidating. The signature kidney grille, now larger and more angular, dominates the front, flanked by slim LED headlights with optional laser technology for superior visibility.
Aerodynamics play a key role here. The M8 features active air flaps, a rear diffuser, and side mirrors designed to reduce drag, helping it achieve a top speed of up to 189 mph with the M Driver’s Package. Carbon fiber accents, like the roof on the Coupe and Gran Coupe, add a lightweight touch while enhancing the sporty aesthetic. Wheel options range from 19 to 20 inches, with aggressive M-specific designs that hug massive brakes up to carbon-ceramic for ultimate stopping power.
Luxury touches abound, too. Available in colors like Skyscraper Grey or BMW Individual shades, the M8 turns heads without being overly flashy. The Convertible adds a soft-top roof that folds in seconds, blending open-air freedom with coupe-like rigidity. Overall, the design strikes a perfect balance between grand tourer comfort and track-ready aggression, making the BMW M8 a standout in the luxury sports car segment.
Interior and Comfort: A Cabin Built for Luxury and Precision
Step inside the BMW M8, and you’re greeted by a cockpit that’s equal parts opulent and driver-focused. Premium Merino leather covers the seats, dashboard, and door panels, with options for extended leather and Alcantara for a more sporty feel. The front seats are heavily bolstered for support during spirited drives, yet they offer heating, ventilation, and massage functions for long-haul comfort.
Space is generous up front, with ample headroom and legroom even for taller drivers. Rear seating varies by model: the Coupe and Convertible offer limited space best for small passengers or bags, while the Gran Coupe provides more practical room with 36.6 inches of rear legroom. Trunk capacity ranges from 11 cubic feet in the Convertible (due to the roof mechanism) to 15.5 in the Gran Coupe—enough for weekend getaways.
Infotainment shines with a 12.3-inch touchscreen running BMW’s iDrive system, paired with a matching digital gauge cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with a premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system option. Ambient lighting, soft-close doors, and customizable driving modes create a personalized environment. While some reviewers note the interior feels a bit dated compared to rivals, its build quality is impeccable, ensuring the BMW M8 feels like a true luxury performance car.
Performance and Engine: Heart-Pounding Power Under the Hood
At the core of the BMW M8 is a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse propels the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.0 seconds for the Coupe and Gran Coupe, or 3.1 seconds for the Convertible—numbers that rival supercars. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive, it offers seamless power delivery. For thrill-seekers, a rear-wheel-drive mode disengages the front axle, allowing for controlled drifts.
Handling is sharp thanks to adaptive suspension, rear-wheel steering, and M-specific tuning. Driving modes—Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus, and Track—adjust everything from throttle response to steering weight. On the highway, it’s smooth and refined; on twisty roads, it’s agile despite its two-ton weight. Fuel economy sits at 15/22 mpg city/highway, which is typical for a high-performance V8 but thirsty for daily use.
Braking is confident with standard compound discs or optional carbon-ceramics. Overall, the BMW M8’s performance makes it a versatile beast: a comfortable cruiser one moment, a track star the next.
Technology and Features: Cutting-Edge Safety and Connectivity
The BMW M8 is loaded with tech that enhances safety and convenience. Standard features include Active Guard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure alerts. Optional packages add adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera.
Connectivity is seamless via the iDrive 8 system, supporting over-the-air updates, voice commands, and navigation with real-time traffic. The head-up display projects key info like speed and directions onto the windshield. For audio lovers, the Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins systems deliver crystal-clear sound.
Smart features include remote start, a digital key via smartphone, and customizable ambient lighting. Driver assistance shines on highways, with hands-free driving in certain conditions—earning high marks for smoothness and confidence. While some find the menu system overwhelming at first, it’s intuitive once set up, making the BMW M8 a tech-savvy choice in the luxury sports car category.
Variants and Models: Choosing the Right BMW M8 for You
The 2025 BMW M8 lineup offers three variants, each tailored to different preferences. All share the same powerful engine and core features but differ in body style and practicality.
| Variant | Body Style | Starting Price | Key Differences | Seating Capacity | Cargo Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW M8 Competition Coupe | 2-Door Coupe | $140,975 | Fixed carbon-fiber roof, sportiest handling, discontinued after 2025 | 4 (rear limited) | 14.8 cu ft |
| BMW M8 Competition Convertible | 2-Door Convertible | $150,975 | Power-folding soft top, open-air experience, Anthracite headliner | 4 (rear limited) | 11 cu ft (top down) |
| BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe | 4-Door Sedan | $140,975 | Extra doors for easier access, more rear legroom, practical for families | 5 | 15.5 cu ft |
The Coupe is ideal for pure driving enthusiasts, the Convertible for those who love top-down freedom, and the Gran Coupe for everyday usability.
Price and Value: What Does the BMW M8 Cost?
Starting at $140,975 for the Coupe and Gran Coupe, and $150,975 for the Convertible, the BMW M8 isn’t cheap—but it delivers premium value. Trims are limited to the Competition level, but options like the Driving Assistance Professional Package ($1,700) or carbon-ceramic brakes ($8,500) can push the price over $160,000.
Running costs include premium fuel (about $3,000 annually at 12,000 miles) and maintenance, which averages $1,200 per year. Depreciation is steep—expect 40-50% loss in three years—but that’s common for luxury performance cars. For the power, tech, and prestige, the BMW M8 offers strong value compared to pricier rivals.
Competitors: How the BMW M8 Stacks Up
The BMW M8 faces tough competition in the luxury sports car arena. Here’s a comparison with key rivals:
| Model | Starting Price | Horsepower | 0-60 mph | MPG (City/Highway) | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW M8 Competition | $140,975 | 617 | 3.0s | 15/22 | Balanced luxury and performance |
| Mercedes-AMG GT 63 | $153,350 | 577 | 3.1s | 15/21 | More exotic styling, hybrid options |
| Porsche 911 Turbo | $197,800 | 572 | 2.7s | 15/20 | Legendary handling, customization |
| Audi RS7 | $125,000 | 621 | 3.3s | 14/22 | Practical liftback design, quattro AWD |
| Aston Martin Vantage | $150,000 | 656 | 3.4s | 15/22 | British elegance, manual option available |
The M8 excels in refinement and value, but the Porsche edges it in pure speed, while the AMG GT offers more drama. If you prioritize comfort with power, the BMW M8 often comes out on top.
Pros and Cons of the BMW M8
Pros:
- Explosive 617-hp V8 engine for thrilling acceleration.
- Luxurious interior with high-quality materials and advanced tech.
- Versatile driving modes, including RWD for fun.
- Excellent highway refinement and ADAS features.
- Practical variants like the Gran Coupe for daily use.
- Strong build quality and brand prestige.
Cons:
- High fuel consumption and running costs.
- Limited rear space in Coupe and Convertible.
- Steep depreciation hits resale value.
- Heavy weight can feel cumbersome in tight corners.
- Some find seats uncomfortable for long drives.
- Expensive options inflate the final price.
Customer Reviews and Market Reception
Owners and experts rave about the BMW M8’s blend of luxury and performance. Many praise its refinement, calling it “the most isolated on-road experience under $250k” with top-tier ADAS. Auto reviewers like Car and Driver highlight its “prodigious power and explosive performance,” scoring it highly for grand touring capabilities.
However, sentiment is mixed. Some owners report uncomfortable seats and a “cheap” interior feel in places, with one noting, “The interior makes a cheap impression.” Others complain about high maintenance and depreciation, but reliability scores above average at 5/5 from Kelley Blue Book users. Market reception is strong among enthusiasts, though sales reflect its niche appeal—it’s a dream car for those who can afford it.
The Future of the BMW M8: Updates, Electrification, and Rumors
Looking ahead, the BMW M8 faces changes. The Coupe ends production in early 2025 due to low demand, leaving the Convertible and Gran Coupe. No direct successor is planned until after 2030, with rumors of a return as a 6 Series or a new performance model.
Electrification is on the horizon. Whispers suggest a hybrid version with over 700 hp, blending the V8 with electric motors for better efficiency. BMW’s push toward EVs could see an all-electric M8 variant, aligning with the brand’s 2030 sustainability goals. For now, the 2025 models remain pure combustion, but expect tech upgrades like enhanced iDrive and autonomy features in any refresh.
Conclusion: Why the BMW M8 Remains a Top Luxury Performance Car
The BMW M8 masterfully combines heart-racing performance with everyday luxury, making it a standout in the BMW M series. From its powerful V8 to its refined cabin, it’s designed for those who want the best of both worlds. While not without flaws—like fuel thirst and cost—its strengths make it worth considering for luxury sports car buyers. If you’re seeking a BMW performance car that excels on the track and the highway, the M8 delivers.
