2019 BMW 8-Series Convertible Drops Its Top To Welcome Spring

Spring has finally sprung and BMW is celebrating by dropping the top on the 8-Series Convertible.

Looking large and luxurious, the heavily camouflaged prototype follows in the footsteps of the 6-Series Convertible as it features a sporty front fascia with a prominent grille. The model has also been equipped with a long hood and slender headlights with integrated daytime running lights.

Moving further back, we can see a rakish windscreen and stylish two-tone alloy wheels which are backed up by a high-performance braking system with blue calipers. The model has also front fender vents, wraparound taillights and a four-tailpipe exhaust system which is tucked behind two chromed finishers.

Of course of the most notable feature is the retractable soft top which has finally been lowered now that temperatures are more seasonable. This reveals the convertible will be offered with a rear windscreen that can be installed behind the front seats. The front headrests also appear to have vents in them so it’s possible that BMW will offer a competitor to Mercedes’ airscarf system.

Speaking of the interior, the latest spy photos show the model will have a three-spoke steering wheel and a freestanding infotainment system. The latter resides above chromed air vents and new switchgear in a slanted center stack. We can also see a large iDrive controller and leather seats with contrast stitching.

Like a number of upcoming models, the 8-Series Convertible will be offered with a new digital instrument cluster and an upgraded infotainment system running BMW Operating System 7.0. The latter system has improved menus, additional customization settings and a more intuitive layout.

The 8-Series is expected to be unveiled on June 15th and it will be offered with an assortment of different engines. Choices remain unconfirmed but are slated to include a 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder with around 335 hp (249 kW) and a 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8 developing approximately 455 hp (339 kW).

BMW has also confirmed plans for a high-performance M8 which will use the same engine as the M5. However, is expected to even more powerful as rumors have suggested it could produce between 616 hp (459 kW) and 641 hp (478 kW).

There have also been rumors about a plug-in hybrid variant as well as a range-topping model with a V12 engine.