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2020 BMW M8
Highs Drives better than the lesser M850i, comfortable ride, awesome engine and transmission.
Lows Styling borders on sterile, engine sound fails to thrill, unpleasant brake-pedal feedback.
Verdict The M8 coupe and convertible are luxurious and mighty, but they’re also a little too reserved.
Overview
With muscular proportions and massive power, the 2020 BMW M8 is a bully among boulevard cruisers. This badass Bimmer is based on the standard BMW 8-series—and is available as a coupe, convertible, and Gran Coupe that we review separately. Every version of the M8 boasts a mighty twin-turbo V-8 that pairs with a specialized all-wheel-drive system; it includes a rear-drive-only mode that’s perfect for hanging the tail out. The M8 Competition model further maximizes performance with added horsepower, an enhanced chassis, and other bespoke bits. Despite its inherently aggressive demeanor, the M8 remains a pleasant daily driver. Its cabin is beautifully crafted and loaded with luxury features and desirable technology. While its exterior design won’t appeal to extroverts, and BMW’s newly introduced adjustable brake-pedal feel is unpleasant, the 2020 M8 is hugely capable and surprisingly comfortable.
What’s New for 2020?
BMW introduces a new flagship for its vaunted M performance division with the 2020 M8. This model replaces the BMW M6, which was also offered as a coupe, convertible, and four-door Gran Coupe. Due to supply issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the M8 coupe and convertible won’t be sold in the U.S. for the 2021 model year.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
M8 coupe: $133,995
M8 Competition coupe: $147,995
M8 convertible: $147,995
M8 Competition convertible: $157,495
Unlike the more affordable but less powerful BMW M850i, the M8 is made for those who desire the full monty when it comes to the company’s M division. That’s why we’d recommend the M8 Competition coupe, because it has the complete roster of go-fast goodies and is better suited to racetrack action than the convertible. Both versions are a serious investment, and those who have the means to buy either can likely afford to load up on the options. …
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The M8 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8, which makes 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. The Competition versions generate another 17 ponies. Every M8 uses an eight-speed automatic transmission and a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system that can disengage power to the front axle. This impressive drivetrain is also shared with the BMW M5. While we haven’t had a chance to evaluate an M8 at our test track, we expect acceleration times to be in the same eye-widening range as the last M5 competition that we tested. We have spent some time behind the wheel of the coupe and convertible M8 Competition. Compared with the M8, the Comp models receive a firmer suspension, sportier-sounding exhaust system, unique “Track” drive mode, and special wheels. Despite an exhaust note that doesn’t quite excite like rivals from Mercedes-AMG, the BMW is blindingly quick, and its automatic is brilliantly perceptive. Although the all-wheel-drive system is intended to provide rear-drive thrills, we found that provoking power slides is best left for the safety of an empty parking lot. The M8 Competition didn’t punish us on regular roads, thanks a compliant ride that belies its track-focused capabilities. However, don’t mistake its pleasantness for weakness. The M8 chassis has tremendous levels of grip and telegraphs some feedback to the thick-rimmed steering wheel. The M8’s combination of quickness and nimbleness makes it a compelling partner anytime the road opens up or turns twisty. Unfortunately, we found the braking system’s adjustable pedal feel less-than-engaging.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
As with most BMW M cars, the M8’s interior design and passenger space are virtually identical to the regular models’. Although the design doesn’t strike us as very imaginative, the leather surfaces are beautifully stitched together and the trim pieces are appropriately upscale. Every M8 comes standard with luxurious features that include customizable ambient lighting, a 12.1-inch digital gauge cluster, heated and ventilated front seats, a Nappa leather-covered dashboard, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and wireless charging. Its cabin provides plenty of space for front-seat passengers but makes those banished to the small back seat feel like second-class citizens. Those who want an M8 and need to regularly shuttle more than two people will want to consider the much roomier, four-door M8 Gran Coupe. We managed to fit five carry-on suitcases in the trunk of a regular 8-series coupe, so we expect the M8 to provide the same amount of storage.
Read More https://www.caranddriver.com/bmw/m8
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