The exterior heralds a return of some of the muscularity that BMW has
removed from recent models, and it looks more than capable of kicking
sand in the face of the current 6-series. The concept has pronounced
rear haunches and an aggressive rear bumper incorporating oversize
exhaust finishers. The 8-series also marks a welcome evolution of BMW’s
commitment to air vents in the front fender, with a sizable exit behind
the front wheels in place of the tacked-on-looking air breathers fitted
to some of its lesser models. The concept rides on 21-inch wheels,
suggesting that similarly sized units will be available on the
production version, although possibly only as an option.
The 8-series coupe has been given the code G15 in BMW’s nomenclature,
and we believe its four-door sibling will be the G16. Those numbers
indicate a close mechanical relationship with the G11/G12 7-series
sedan, with both the 7- and 8-series (like the new 5-series) using the
same modular OKL platform. BMW insiders indicate the 8-series will share
the 7’s partial-carbon-fiber construction to reduce weight, and we’re
promised that it will have genuine handling ability as well as GT
credentials.
The word from Europe is that BMW’s turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six
will serve as the entry-level engine. Above that, we can expect the
brawnier twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 as seen in the 750i, which likely will
be in a similar 445-hp state of tune. Europeans also will get at least
one diesel variant, probably a twin-turbo 3.0-liter branded as the
840d—although don’t hold your breath waiting for that one to cross the
Atlantic. A hybrid is a possibility, if not a terribly exciting one. An
eight-speed automatic gearbox will be standard, with BMW’s xDrive
all-wheel-drive system being an option.
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