Our spy photographers have spotted the facelifted BMW 8 Series, giving us our first impression of the changes being made to BMW’s big GT before its launch in 2022. It’ll debut alongside the revised BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe, and will provide fresh competition for the likes of the Lexus LC and upcoming Mercedes SL.
Judging by the camouflage on this prototype, we can safely assume that BMW’s facelift revisions will be limited to the front and rear of the 8 Series. The headlights are slimmer, there’s some new graphics for the tail lights, and the front and rear bumpers will be redesigned. An updated colour palette should also feature, and we could see more alloy wheel designs.
We’re expecting a less noticeable overhaul for the interior, as the new model will stick with the same 12.3-inch digital dashboard and 10.25-inch infotainment system as the current car. However, BMW should introduce the latest version of its iDrive infotainment software, which will add automatic over-the-air updates that negate the need for owners to visit dealerships for routine upgrades.
The drivetrain line-up will be carried over from the existing 8 Series range, meaning buyers will still have a choice of two 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, along with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 in the flagship M-badged variants.
Like the current model, the revised 840i will produce 328bhp, while the updated 840d will offer 335bhp and 680Nm of torque. UK buyers will still be able to opt for BMW’s V8 in two states of tune – 523bhp in the M850i and a barnstorming 616bhp in M8 Competition form. All of the engines will come with an eight-speed automatic gearbox as standard, with the range-topping M-powered versions also featuring four-wheel drive.
There’s no word yet on whether BMW will introduce any form of hybrid drive on the new 8 Series Coupe, although the car’s CLAR underpinnings are compatible with the firm’s latest plug-in hybrid technology. The 3.0-litre powertrain used in the X5 xDrive45e would give the 8 Series Coupe an output of 389bhp and 600Nm of torque and make it a direct rival for the upcoming Mercedes SL, which will also feature the technology.
However, the packaging constraints of the two-door body style might provide a technical challenge that, coupled to relatively low sales volumes, means the German brand might not explore this avenue.
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