The Next-Gen BMW 8 Series Will Be Radically Different
The first-generation BMW 8 Series was an exceptional sports car, which is particularly remembered for its V-12 engine. BMW tried to continue this success story in 2018, but the sales figures for the Coupe (G15), Convertible (G14), and GranCoupe (G16) couldn’t satisfy the Bavarian brand. For this reason, there have been repeated rumors about changes within the BMW 8 Series over the recent years. And, these rumors are now getting new food.
The Next 8 Series Will Only Come As A GranCoupe
BMW
Rear three-quarter view of 8 Series GC
According to bmwblog.com, the next-generation 8 Series (G77) will enter production in 2026. It will continue to be based on BMW’s CLAR rear-wheel-drive platform, which is basically designed for any type of powertrain. Unlike the current generation, however, it could only be launched in purely electric form, and only as a GranCoupe at that.
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Related: 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe Driven
This news doesn’t come as a complete surprise, as there have always been rumors about changes to the 8 Series. High development and production figures coupled with falling sales are making coupes and convertibles increasingly unprofitable and are now ensuring that only the best-selling model in the 8 Series – the Gran Coupe – will remain in the BMW lineup.
The Next 8 Series Will Be An All-Electric Car
BMW
Front-quarter view of 8 Series Concept
The much more exciting news, however, is that the new 8 Series will be launched as an all-electric car. These rumors are surprising precisely because BMW is likely to earn a comparatively high margin, especially with the high-displacement and high-horsepower models of the 8 Series.
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In particular, the M850i with 530 horses (390 kW), and, of course, the M8 with up to 625 horses (460 kW) are a revelation in terms of driving dynamics despite their weight and are, therefore, among the best sports cars in the BMW lineup. It will be exciting to see whether a purely electric 8 Series can translate this enthusiasm into the future.
Coupe and Cabrio Are Likely To Live On As The 6 Series
BMW
Rear three-quarter view of BMW 8 Series convertible
For the Cabrio and Coupe of the 8 Series, the future is their past. As with the first generation, they are likely to be replaced by a new 6 Series into which, according to rumors, the 4 Series Coupe and Cabrio will also be merged.
The 8 Series GranCoupe as a purely electric tourer is likely to close the gap between the significantly larger 7 Series and the new 5 Series. With a length of around 5.20 meters, it would be an ideal competitor for the Mercedes EQS, which is also available as an all-electric AMG version. So, we can already look forward to a future duel between these two four-door sports cars.
