Bmw 8 Series
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a grand tourer that combines luxury with genuine sports car performance? The BMW 8 Series might be exactly what you’re looking for. This flagship coupe represents BMW at its most ambitious, delivering supercar levels of performance wrapped in a luxurious package that’s surprisingly practical for everyday use. It’s the car for drivers who want to make a statement without compromising on comfort or capability.

From the moment you see it, the 8 Series commands attention. Its low-slung silhouette and aggressive styling give it a presence that rivals like the Aston Martin DB11 or Bentley Continental GT struggle to match. The cabin is equally impressive, featuring BMW’s latest technology wrapped in premium materials that justify the substantial price tag. You get the sense that every detail has been carefully considered to create a truly special driving environment.

Driving the 8 Series is an intoxicating experience. The powerful engines deliver effortless acceleration, while the sophisticated chassis provides remarkable composure whether you’re cruising on the motorway or attacking a winding country road. It manages to be both a relaxed grand tourer and a focused sports car, adapting its character to suit your mood. While it commands a premium price, you’re paying for cutting edge technology, exceptional build quality, and performance that can genuinely challenge dedicated supercars.

What's the BMW 8 Series Like to Drive?

The BMW 8 Series is designed to deliver supercar performance with grand touring refinement. The range includes several powertrains, from the 840i with its turbocharged 3.0-litre straight six producing 335 horsepower, up to the range topping M850i with its twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 generating 523 horsepower. Even the entry level model feels genuinely quick, reaching 60mph in just 5.2 seconds, while the M850i demolishes the sprint in an astonishing 3.6 seconds. This puts it firmly in supercar territory for acceleration.

Where the 8 Series truly excels is in its ability to change character depending on your driving mode. In comfort settings, it glides serenely with minimal road noise and a supple ride quality that makes long journeys effortless. Switch to Sport Plus mode and the coupe transforms into a focused performance machine with sharper throttle response, firmer suspension, and an exhaust note that becomes genuinely addictive. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you confidence to explore the car’s considerable capabilities on challenging roads.

How Comfortable Is the BMW 8 Series?

Step inside the 8 Series and you’re immediately surrounded by luxury that rivals the finest executive saloons. The dashboard features BMW’s latest iDrive infotainment system on a large touchscreen, complemented by a digital instrument cluster that’s both informative and beautifully presented. The seats are works of art in themselves, offering multiple adjustment options and heating, cooling, and massage functions on higher specifications. Materials throughout are exceptional, with soft leather, real carbon fibre, and brushed aluminium creating an ambience worthy of the premium price tag.

Despite being a two door coupe, the 8 Series offers surprising practicality. The rear seats are actually usable for adults on shorter journeys, though they’re best reserved for children or occasional passengers. Wind and road noise are remarkably well controlled, creating a serene environment that makes the 8 Series as comfortable on long motorway cruises as it is thrilling on twisty back roads. Standard equipment is generous, including wireless phone charging, premium audio systems, and advanced driver assistance features that take the stress out of traffic and parking.

The BMW 8 Series is a remarkable achievement that successfully combines supercar performance with genuine grand touring capability. It delivers thrilling acceleration and handling when you want it, yet transforms into a refined and comfortable cruiser for longer journeys. The interior quality and technology are exceptional, justifying its position as BMW’s flagship coupe. Build quality feels solid and the driving experience is genuinely special, whether you’re commuting through traffic or exploring challenging mountain roads. The main considerations are the substantial running costs and limited rear seat space. Fuel consumption can be heavy if you enjoy the performance, and maintenance costs reflect the car’s sophisticated engineering. However, for drivers who can accommodate the running costs and don’t need maximum practicality, the 8 Series is difficult to fault. It offers an intoxicating blend of luxury and performance that few cars can match, making it an easy recommendation for those seeking the ultimate grand touring experience.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

BMW 8 Series Running Costs

As a flagship luxury grand tourer, the BMW 8 Series comes with premium running costs that reflect its positioning. Fuel economy varies significantly depending on which engine you choose and how you drive it. The 840i can return around 35mpg in careful hands, while the thunderous M850i will struggle to exceed 25mpg in real world conditions. Insurance costs are substantial, with most variants sitting in high insurance groups due to their performance potential and expensive repair costs.

The initial purchase price is where the 8 Series demands serious consideration. New examples command well over £75,000, though used models offer better value as depreciation works in buyers’ favour. Running costs extend beyond fuel, with premium tyres, high specification brake components, and complex electronics meaning maintenance bills can be significant. However, BMW finance deals can help spread the cost, and the 8 Series holds its value better than many luxury cars thanks to its desirability and limited production numbers.

Is the BMW 8 Series Practical for Everyday Use?

For a high performance coupe, the BMW 8 Series offers impressive practicality that makes it genuinely usable as a daily driver. The 420 litre boot is generous for the class, easily accommodating weekend luggage for two people or a substantial weekly shopping trip. The rear seats fold down to extend cargo space when needed, and the wide opening makes loading larger items relatively straightforward. Storage throughout the cabin is thoughtfully designed, with door bins, cup holders, and centre console compartments providing space for everyday essentials.

Where the 8 Series shows its limitations is in rear passenger accommodation. While the back seats are more spacious than many two door coupes, they’re best suited to children or occasional adult passengers on shorter journeys. Access requires occupants to climb through the front doors, which can be awkward. However, for couples or small families who prioritise style and performance over maximum practicality, the 8 Series strikes an excellent balance. It’s far more usable than dedicated sports cars while offering most of the convenience of a luxury saloon, making it an appealing choice among used BMW cars.

The BMW 8 Series stands as a testament to what’s possible when engineering excellence meets luxury craftsmanship. It successfully delivers supercar performance in a package that’s refined enough for daily use, wrapped in stunning styling that commands respect wherever it goes. The combination of cutting edge technology, exceptional build quality, and genuine practicality sets it apart from more focused sports cars.

You choose the 8 Series because you want the ultimate expression of BMW’s capabilities without compromising on comfort or usability. Its ability to seamlessly transition between relaxed cruising and thrilling performance makes every journey memorable. If you’re looking for a grand tourer that offers the perfect blend of luxury and excitement, the BMW 8 Series should be at the very top of your list, especially with cars under £50,000 offering excellent value in the used market.