BMW M8 Gran Coupe Debuts As A Sleek Four-Door Coupe With Up To 617 HP

BMW has taken the wraps off the new M8 Gran Coupe.

Set to arrive in the United States early next year, the high-performance model follows in the footsteps of the M8 Coupe and Convertible. As a result, the car is powered by a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine that produces 592 hp (441 kW / 600 PS) and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque.

The engine is connected to an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission which sends power to a rear-biased and defeatable all-wheel drive system. This setup enables the M8 Gran Coupe to rocket from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 3.3 seconds, before hitting a limited top speed of up to 190 mph (305 km/h) when equipped with the optional M Driver’s Package.

Buyers looking for more performance can order the M8 Competition Gran Coupe. It features an upgraded engine that develops 616 hp (460 kW / 625 PS) and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque. Thanks to the extra power, the dash to 62 mph (100 km/h) is cut to 3.2 seconds. However, the top speed remains unchanged at 155 mph (250 km/h) and 190 mph (305 km/h) with the M Driver’s Package.

Of course, the performance upgrades don’t end there as the M8 has been equipped with a double-wishbone front axle that has “specially designed swivel bearings, torque arms and control arms.”  The updates continue out back as the five-link rear axle has M-specific forged links and “extremely stiff” anti-roll bars.

Elsewhere, the car has been equipped with a shear panel and a tower-to-bulkhead strut to increase torsional strength up front.  Likewise, there’s a steel X-brace and an aluminum transverse strut to beef things up in the rear.

Other performance-oriented features include an Active M Differential, an M Servotronic steering system and an M-specific adaptive suspension.  There’s also a high-performance braking system and optional carbon-ceramic brakes.

In terms of styling, the front end carries over from the coupe and convertible.  As a result, the model has a black kidney grille which resides above aggressive air intakes.

The sporty styling continues further back as the Gran Coupe has aerodynamic mirrors, a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic roof and 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels.  Other highlights include an aggressive rear bumper, a trunk-mounted spoiler and a four-tailpipe exhaust system.

For a more exclusive look, customers can order an optional M Carbon exterior package.  It adds an assortment of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic components including mirror caps, a rear diffuser, a rear spoiler and inserts for the front air intakes.

Moving into the cabin, drivers will find an assortment of M-specific touches.  These include M Sport seats, an M leather steering wheel and a unique gear selector.

The model also has a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch infotainment system and a head-up display.  Other highlights include carbon fiber trim, ambient lighting and a wireless smartphone charger.

Buyers looking for something even more exclusive can get the M8 Gran Coupe First Edition.  Production will be limited to 400 units – 50 are coming to the US – and it features a BMW Individual Aurora Diamond Green metallic exterior with Gold Bronze accents. The model also has unique wheels, special door sill plates and Taruma Brown Merino leather.

In the United States, the M8 Gran Coupe will start at $130,000.  The more powerful Competition variant costs an extra $13,000 and that’s before the $995 destination charge.