The new BMW 8 Series Coupé demonstrates the full spectrum of its dynamic capabilities in the final phase of the production model's development. The tests currently being carried out in British Wales focus exclusively on the final tuning of all drivetrain and chassis systems, with the main focus being on the BMW M850i xDrive Coupé, a model that embodies the driving characteristics of the new sports luxury car in a particularly intense way. The completely redesigned eight-cylinder fork, state-of-the-art intelligent all-wheel drive, active rear differential, adaptive M chassis with active stabilizers and integral active steering with rear-wheel steering form a perfectly coordinated unit for fascinating sportiness and maximum comfort.
Among the most impressive features that the engine and chassis have in common is the wide range of their capabilities. The eight-cylinder power unit, which appears for the very first time in the BMW M850i xDrive Coupé, produces considerable torque and a carefully tuned baritone that is a suitable companion even for leisurely driving. On the other hand, in Sport and Sport+ modes, both the onset of power and the sound of the engine become sharper. The electronically controlled shock absorbers, the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) stabilization system and the all-wheel drive system are also precisely adapted to the selected driving mode. The new BMW xDrive all-wheel drive prioritizes rear-axle drive, which is noticeable in every driving situation. Particularly ambitious drivers will also use the active differential on the rear axle, which guarantees maximum traction when exiting corners.
"What has always impressed me when testing the BMW 8 Series Coupé is its adaptability," said Markus Flasch, project manager of the BMW 8 Series. will adjust the settings."
The dynamic driving characteristics of the new BMW 8 Series Coupé are based on a low center of gravity and high body rigidity, as well as a precisely tuned chassis. The controllability and precise steering response of the new BMW M850i xDrive Coupé is further advanced by the integral active steering with rear wheel steering and adaptive stabilizers supplied as standard. In addition, electronically controlled shock absorbers are able to ensure maximum stability at any time, so contact with the road is guaranteed even on not quite good surfaces.
“The new BMW 8 Series Coupé will be available exclusively with different tire sizes for the front and rear axles. This allowed us to use the potential of the wide rear tires when tuning individual chassis systems and thus achieve particularly sporty driving characteristics," comments Jos Van As, head of chassis component development. "Larger deflections of all wheels and specifically tuned elastokinematics also allow an unprecedentedly high cornering speed before the electronics intervene. So those who want can drive on the racetrack without restrictions even with the DSC system on.”
The new forked eight-cylinder is the embodiment of supreme and sporty performance and plays a decisive role in the driving characteristics of the BMW M850i xDrive Coupé. Despite weighing the same as the previous engine, the output of the new power unit has increased by 50 kW/69 hp to 390 kW/530 hp. Peak torque has increased by 100 Nm to a maximum of 750 Nm, available at 1,800 rpm. The eight-cylinder engine sends power through a further improved eight-speed Steptronic transmission, which features a wide gear range and even shorter shift times.
"The new V8 engine provides a precise balance between performance and emotion, which is also what makes the new BMW 8 Series Coupé such a special car," says Christian Billig, Head of Powertrain Integration. "The eight-cylinder engine gets along well with the improved Steptronic transmission during dynamic acceleration. At the same time, the sound of the sports exhaust reflects the onset of performance in an authentic way. Thanks to BMW xDrive and the active rear differential, the engine always transmits torque exactly where it can best be converted into driving dynamics.
With dynamic driving tests in Wales, the developers conclude an extremely extensive and intensive development program for the production BMW 8 Series Coupé. In addition to race circuits and closed test tracks, prototypes of the new model are also tested on public roads, which are closer to real use. They are the ideal complement to information gathered, for example, during winter testing in Arjeplog, Sweden, at the BMW Group's southern French test site in Miramas, at the Nürburgring Nordschleife test center or during initial tests on the race track.
The BMW 8 Series Coupé will go on sale during 2018. The number 8 in the model designation refers to the prominent position of the new model within the BMW product line. As in the case of the BMW Z8 and currently also the BMW i8, the number 8 marks a highly emotional and extremely sporty car. The BMW 8 Series Coupé will thus become a key part of the luxury model offensive that the BMW Group has set as part of its NUMBER ONE >NEXT strategy.
As these are prototypes, technical data such as fuel consumption, CO 2 emissions and the like will be released later this year.
