BMW 8 Series ‘vert has landed, due for release in March 2019. With 2 engine variations 850i xDrive and 840d xDrive.
BMW say this will seat 4 people comfortably to allow for serene open top cruising, should the weather change the black fabric roof will raise or lower in just 15 seconds and this can be activated whilst the car is moving from 31mph or under. There is an option to specify a silver anthracite fabric.
The 850i boasts a 530hp V8 with 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds whilst the diesel 840d offers 320hp, 0-62mpg in 5.2 seconds and near 20 more MPG. Power gets to the wheels by an 8 speed auto paired with the intelligent all-wheel xDrive. The cars meet the latest Euro6d-Temp standards.
It was developed along side the Coupe, M8, M8 GTE so offers all the same characteristics, such as low centre of gravity, even weight distribution and lightweight construction comprising of carbon fibre reinforced plastics, aluminium and magnesium. BMW say this has an ‘almost’ lift-free body.
The convertible does have additional underbody bracing to create an extremely stiff body and chassis structure, coupled with extra protection for roll overs such as a strengthened windscreen and roll over bars behind the rear seats that pop out when the car senses and accident.
850i comes with Adaptive M Sport suspension, Active Steering and an M Sport Diff as standard. All available as an option for the 840d. The M Sport package differs between the 840d and 850i
840d M Package includes front apron with with extra large air intakes, side skirts and rear apron. 19″ M light alloys, M Sport brakes, multifunction seats, M leather steering wheel and illuminated door sills with M logo.
850i M Package includes a front spoiler extension, 20″ M light alloys with performance tyres with some exterior elements in Cerium grey, interior trim in stainless steel mesh and illuminated door sills with model designation.
More options such as M Carbon Exterior, Mirror Covers, Tailpipe in covered Carbonfibre Reinforced Plastic and a Chrome Line Exterior.
Being the convertible, a pop up wind deflector is fitted as standard with neck warmers in the front seats optional.
Adaptive LED headlights and rear lights come as standard with laser light being an option
Inside equipped with BMWs Live Cockpit Professional boasting a head up display and a 10.25″ screen powered by BMW OS 7.0 with Sat Nav. BMW Digital key allows you to lock and unlock the car and remote start the vehicle.
Aesthetically, I believe this is an instance where the convertible looks more appealing than the Coupe. The ‘deck’ look of the convertible with surrounding hoop design gives the 8 Convertible that touch of class that should be expected from a car designed to be a long distance cruiser.
It’s just a shame we now have to wait until next summer to enjoy drop top sunshine cruising.