The BMW 8 Collection obtained a delicate refresh in 2022, extending the grand tourer’s lifecycle. But when we observe BMW’s common seven-year manufacturing cycle—and take the rising rumors into consideration—the 8 Collection as we all know it’s on its method out. Insiders counsel that manufacturing might finish in spring 2026, although very like the M8 Coupe’s discontinuation, the phase-out might be staggered throughout completely different physique types. With no confirmed plans for a next-generation 8 Collection (extra on that sooner or later), now’s the time to dream. Some markets, like Japan, have already given the 8 Collection a correct send-off. However what else might BMW do to make it actually unforgettable?
A Misunderstood Mannequin
Very like its predecessor, the unique E31 8 Collection, the current-generation 8 Collection has been misunderstood. It debuted with a contemporary but pretty protected design, avoiding daring and divisive styling decisions like outsized kidney grilles or break up headlights. As an alternative, its elegant curves have been paying homage to the earlier Fxx technology BMW fashions, a design period now praised for its cohesion and timeless attraction. Although we known as it too protected on the time.
Inside, the 8 Collection stays refreshingly analog for 2025. No large 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 slightly below the 7 Collection in luxurious, with premium leather-based and wealthy trims taking priority over the plastic-heavy strategy 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 Affords Immediately
BMW didn’t maintain again when it got here to the engine lineup. From clean, highly effective six-cylinder diesels and petrol engines (B58 FTW) to twin-turbo V8s, the 8 Collection delivered efficiency in any respect ranges. Paired with the ZF 8-speed computerized, it supplied easy acceleration, whether or not on an extended highway 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 value.
The Value of Exclusivity
Proudly owning an 8 Collection 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 value, little doubt. However BMW typically softened the blow with incentives of as much as $5,500, plus further vendor reductions.
A Future Basic within the Making
Regardless of its price ticket, the G15/G16/G17 8 Collection has all of the elements to turn out to be a future traditional—similar to the E31 8 Collection earlier than it. And BMW has a chance to cement its legacy with a closing version mannequin. They’ve performed it earlier than. The M850i xDrive Coupe First Version was a major instance. Inbuilt restricted numbers (400 items) 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 components for a particular farewell version is already there. All BMW must do is refine it or just copy it. The First Version fashions have been fairly particular and uncommon.
How BMW May Make It Particular
BMW Particular person provides a treasure trove of distinctive colours, just like the gorgeous 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 Collection can be a simple drop-in.
- Design a set of unique wheels, add refined badging, and even embrace a customized baggage set for the trunk.
Add all these items and extra, and you possibly can already think about this on the garden at Legends of the Autobahn in 30 years from now. Sure, it is likely to be costly. However some issues are price it. The ground is yours, BMW. Make it occur.
