2025 BMW 8-Series Review, Pricing, and Specs (2024)

Overview

The BMW 8-series follows the blueprint for two-door grand touring cars of the 2020s: generously sized on the outside, with sweeping, aggressive lines, and tight on the inside for rear-seat passengers. It's first-class, high-speed ground transportation for two, like the Mercedes-AMG SL-class and the Lexus LC the 8-series competes against. The 8-series comes as both a coupe and convertible and is powered by either a stout turbocharged inline-six or an optional twin-turbo V-8. The interior design is crisp and elegant with high-quality materials throughout, commensurate with the near six-figure starting price. Whether you're considering the convertible or the coupe, the 8-series's ride is sporty. In the more aggressive drive modes, it offers plenty of driving verve, although the high-performance M8(reviewed separately) is the one for all-out speed rips and back-road dancing. BMW also builds a four-door version of the 8-series called the Gran Coupe (also reviewed separately), which offers much the same behind-the-wheel experience with the benefit of far more rear-seat passenger space and a larger trunk.

What's New for 2025?

Nothing. The 8-series coupe and convertible slip into 2025 without any significant updates.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

We prefer the prodigious power of the all-wheel-drive-only M850i, with its 523-hp twin-turbo V-8. We also like the drama of the regal and more immersive droptop version, even if it comes with a nearly $10K surcharge. The 8's cabin is lavishly appointed, with attractive accents and leather covering almost every surface, and it can be mixed and matched to suit each owner's preferred aesthetic. We're particularly fond of the Cognac Merino leather and Aluminum Dark Trace interior trim combination. Among the options we'd select are the glass controls for an even ritzier interior, and the neck warmers in the front-seat headrests­ to allow us to enjoy longer periods of top-down driving in our four-season state.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

BMW's biggest coupe and convertible start off with a 335-hp turbocharged inline-six-cylinder. These 840i models pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either rear- or all-wheel drive (called xDrive in BMW parlance). While we haven't driven an 8-series coupe or convertible with the turbocharged inline-six, we have sampled an 8-series Gran Coupe with that engine and can report no surprises: it's quick (60 mph in 4.7 seconds) and delivers on BMW's reputation for building silky-smooth and responsive sixes. Speed freaks will likely want the M850i, which is amply motivated by the 523-hp twin-turbo V-8, eight-speed automatic transmission, and standard all-wheel drive. This combination delivers impressive lunge for the Bimmer's size—we've seen a 60-mph time of 3.5 seconds in our testing—and provides a rich soundtrack in the sportiest driving mode. Likewise, the transmission transitions from relaxed to reactive based on the driver's right foot. Most importantly, the 8-series delivers on its grand-touring promises with a supremely quiet ride and surprising athleticism. Its steering response is direct and linear but filters out road imperfections and front-tire feedback. Although its adaptive dampers allow extra flexibility depending on the selected drive mode, in their stiffest setting they make the 8 remarkably stable during cornering. The car's powerful brake system further enhances the feeling of confidence.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The M850i is rated up to 17 mpg city and 25 highway according to the EPA, whereas the less powerful 840i has estimates of up to 23 mpg city and 30 highway. We tested the M850i coupe and convertible on our 75-mph fuel-economy route, where they achieved 29 and 26 mpg, respectively. While both body styles exceeded their EPA ratings, the coupe did so by 4 mpg whereas the soft top managed 1 mpg more. For more information about the 8-series' fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The 2025 8-series interior offers all the infotainment gadgetry and luxury features expected in a high-priced grand tourer. Every model has 14-way power-adjustable heated front seats, soft-close automatic doors, and customizable ambient lighting; more extravagant upgrades include glass knobs and switches, plus additional high-end materials. An 8-series can even be outfitted with unique BMW Individual options, such as a fancy white-and-brown color scheme. Although BMW does offer a pair of vestigial rear seats, they're not pleasant places for adults to spend time. The 8's low roofline also impedes headroom in the front seat and outward visibility isn't great, but that's the price of fashion. Interior cubby storage consists of a coverable tray at the front of the center console, a useful central bin, and adequate door pockets. We also managed to fit five carry-on bags in the coupe's trunk and another six with the back seats stowed, but the convertible held one bag less in each scenario.

Infotainment and Connectivity

A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen are standard on every 8-series. Unfortunately, the steering wheel controls aren't intuitive to operate. The infotainment system has a variety of ways to interact with it, including a useful rotary knob on the center console. It also features standard Apple CarPlay capability, wireless charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot—though Android Auto is absent. Those who want a more elaborate sound system can opt for the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround system.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2025 8-series offers a host of driver-assistance technology, including a semi-autonomous driving mode. For more information about the 8-series' crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
• Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology
• Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

BMW covers every 8-series with a competitive limited warranty. However, it flip-flops advantages with its Lexus rival. While the LC has an extra two years or 20,000 miles of powertrain protection, the 8 lineup includes an additional two years or 26,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles

More Features and Specs