All-new BMW 8-series debuts at the 2018 24 Hours of Le Mans

MANILA: The unveiling of the all-new BMW 8-series at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June 2018 marks its official debut in a grand manner. This sophisticated macho-looking 8-Series Coupe was displayed publicly a day before at the 24 Hours of Le Mans race commenced at the Circuit de la Sarthe, France. The German luxury automaker has also revealed vital information concerning its features.

The all-new BMW 8-series will come with two engine options; diesel and petrol. The diesel model will derive its power from a 3.0-litre, six-cylinder, turbocharged TwinPower motor that can generate a top power of 315 hp and give 680 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the range-topping M850i xDrive version will be powered by the 4.4-litre, twin-turbo, V8 petrol engine and will be capable of producing a maximum power of 523 hp and yield a peak torque reading 750 Nm.

Both the engine options are equipped with an enhanced 8-speed automatic Steptronic Sport gearbox. It is being speculated that the German luxury automobile manufacturing company will implement hydraulic control optimization to ensure smarter gear changes and boost its performance. The vehicle is also set to get the company’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system and would be coupled with a rear-biased setting, facilitating optimum channelisation of the power to the rear wheels.

This is the first model of the revised BMW 8-Series lineup and is believed to throw a tough challenge and compete with Audi R8, Mercedes-AMG GT four-door coupe and other similar performance-oriented cars.

The BMW 8-Series look macho with its renovated single surround front grille in hexagonal pattern complemented with slender headlamps. It features LED tail-lights and an optional carbon fibre ‘double bubble’ dip in the roof, front and rear spoilers.

On the inside, a host of safety features are available like Lane and Steering Assist, Active Cruise control, Parking Assist, Lane Keep Assist, etc. There are certain other features like a 12.3-inches driving instrument display, an improved central touchscreen display and a lot of other features that would please the tech savvy. Steering wheel, instrument panel, and doors are wrapped in fine leather.

No information on its price estimation and launch date have been provided yet. It might be ready for sale in early 2019. It is also speculated that it might get a price tag of over Php 650,000.