The BMW 8 Sequence acquired a gentle refresh in 2022, extending the grand tourer’s lifecycle. But when we observe BMW’s typical seven-year manufacturing cycle—and take the rising rumors under consideration—the 8 Sequence as we all know it’s on its means out. Insiders counsel that manufacturing may finish in spring 2026, although very like the M8 Coupe’s discontinuation, the phase-out may very well be staggered throughout completely different physique types. With no confirmed plans for a next-generation 8 Sequence (extra on that sooner or later), now could be the time to dream. Some markets, like Japan, have already given the 8 Sequence a correct send-off. However what else may BMW do to make it really unforgettable?
A Misunderstood Mannequin
Very similar to 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 selections like outsized kidney grilles or cut up headlights. As a substitute, its elegant curves had been harking back to the earlier Fxx era BMW fashions, a design period now praised for its cohesion and timeless attraction. Although we known 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 features 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 method 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 Immediately
BMW didn’t maintain again when it got here to the engine lineup. From easy, 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 offered easy acceleration, whether or not on a protracted street journey or a spirited backroad drive. Observe functionality? It had that too as Invoice Auberlen as soon as proved us. However all this got here at a price.
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 question. However BMW usually softened the blow with incentives of as much as $5,500, plus extra vendor reductions.
A Future Basic within the Making
Regardless of its price ticket, the G15/G16/G17 8 Sequence has all of the substances to develop into a future basic—similar to the E31 8 Sequence earlier than it. And BMW has a possibility to cement its legacy with a last version mannequin. They’ve executed it earlier than. The M850i xDrive Coupe First Version was a first-rate 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/Night time Blue
- M leather-based steering wheel & Alcantara roof liner in Night time Blue
The method for a particular farewell version is already there. All BMW must do is refine it or just copy it. The First Version fashions had been fairly particular and uncommon.
How BMW Might Make It Particular
BMW Particular person gives a treasure trove of distinctive colours, just like the beautiful Salève Vert from the Idea M8 Gran Coupe. With ALPINA formally integrating into BMW on the finish of this 12 months, they may even faucet into Lavalina leather-based for an ultra-luxurious inside. Wish to push the boundaries?
- Provide 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 embrace a customized baggage set for the trunk.
Add all these items and extra, and you can already think about this on the garden at Legends of the Autobahn in 30 years from now. Sure, it is perhaps costly. However some issues are value it. The ground is yours, BMW. Make it occur.
