BMW's new M850i xDrive Coupe sportscar (Photo: BMW Malaysia)
BMW’s release of the first generation BMW 8 series took the world by storm in 1989 by being the first BMW vehicle to be fitted with electronic drive-by-wire throttle and multi-link rear axle technology. Three decades later, The 8 inherits the baton to join the premium automaker’s portfolio of luxury cars.
Introduced in the BMW M850i xDrive Coupe variant, The 8 was honed on the race track, combining its powerful engine with the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system and award-winning BMW EfficientLightweight design measures. Available in Carbon Black metallic, Black Sapphire metallic, Sonic Speed Blue metallic, Barcelona Blue metallic, Sunset Orange metallic and Mineral White, matched with black, cognac or ivory white BMW Individual Merino full leather trim sports seats; the coupe premieres several new stunning features that make the sportscar instantly recognisable.
Priced at RM1.08 million, the M850i xDrive Coupe boasts outstanding performance, impeccable design and exceptionally advanced display and control technology, making it the epitome of modern luxury.
Formidable power
Alongside the introduction of the BMW M850i xDrive Coupe is the a new V8 engine that debuts a radically optimised 4.4-litre eight-cylinder unit in tandem with the BMW M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology which generates a top speed of 250 km/h. The coupe delivers a maximum output of 390kW/530hp on tap between 5,500 – 6,000 rpm, maximum torque of 750Nm over a 1,800 to 4,600 rev range and can do the century sprint in merely 3.7 seconds, all with a fuel consumption of 10.4 l/100km.
Paired with the latest-generation 8-speed Steptronic Sports Transmission, a sportier gear shift is produced from the increased ratio spread, new transmission management and optimised hydraulic control. Additionally, The 8 also comes with Integral Active Steering which reduces the car’s turning circle when manoeuvring, increases agility at moderate speeds and optimises poise and assurance when changing lanes and cornering at high speeds.
Impeccable design
Everything about The 8’s appearance exudes fine dynamism with a sporty edge. The car’s low-slung design, elongated silhouette with a slim window graphic, distinctive ‘double-bubble’ contouring and long wheelbase are the defining visual elements of the beauty’s proportions. The sleek vehicle also comes with the BMW Laserlight — the slimmest headlights of any BMW model to date.
A dramatic interplay of lines is notable throughout the design of the sportscar, including character lines which traces the flow of air exiting the Air Breathers on the side and lines pointing lengthways in the leather-lined interior to direct the gaze frontward. The BMW M850i xDrive Coupe is also equipped with active seat ventilation that sucks in cooled air from the interior and is then guided along the body to the seats’ built-in fans for effective temperature control of the seat cushions and backrests.
Innovative technology
Making its debut in The 8 is the perfect co-driver — BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, an intelligent digital character that responds to the prompt “Hey BMW”- that actively learns routines, habits, preferences and favoured settings to enhance the driver’s well-being. One can also personalise the digital assistant by giving it a name, such as “Hey Jamie” to lend greater individuality. With The 8’s built-in SIM card and unlimited data volume, drivers can summon a series of commands for navigation, music and even emergencies.
Also for the first time, The 8 features the BMW Digital Key that employs Near Field Communication (NFC) technology that locks and unlocks the car from a smartphone by simply holding the phone up to the door handle. Once inside, the engine can be started by placing the phone in the Wireless Charging or smartphone tray. The Digital Key enables the driver to share the key with up to five people via the BMW Connected App.
The 8 is priced at RM1,088,800.00 and will be available at all authorised BMW dealerships nationwide from Friday, Mar 15. Alternatively, visit here to pre-book your visit.
