BMW says the new 8 Series coupe and convertible range will arrive in New Zealand showrooms in March.
The M850i xDrive coupe will cost $259,400 plus on-road costs, while the convertible will be $272,200 plus on-road costs.
BMW New Zealand says both models will set a benchmark within the luxury sports segment of the market.
The BMW 8 Series convertible. Picture/Supplied.
The models are powered by a 4.4 litre V8 twin-turbocharged petrol engine, which generates peak power of 390kW, with an M5-matching 750Nm of torque.
BMW says the coupe accelerates from zero to 100 kp/h in just 3.7 seconds, while the convertible completes the sprint in 3.9 seconds.
Both models have the latest generation eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission. This is fitted with a wide-ratio gear set to ensure relaxed high speed driving and improved efficiency. They also have shift paddles fitted.
Featured in the new 8 series is the BMW Live Cockpit Professional, a 12.3-inch customisable instrument cluster with the BMW Head-Up Display.
The operating system 7.0 connects the driver’s displays with the infotainment system, enabling the overlay of information from the control display onto the instrument cluster.
Connectivity is improved withi an upgraded BMW ConnectedDrive system, with a range of digital services such as Wireless Apple CarPlay, Connected Package Professional with Real Time Traffic information and Digital Key which enables access to the car via smartphone.
The BMW 8 Series coupe interior. Picture/Supplied
At the centre of the BMW 8 Series is a Carbon Core centre transmission tunnel. Utilising this carbon fibre structure reduces weight and adds rigidity, allowing optimised suspension geometry and improving both ride and handling characteristics, says BMW.
The convertible variant is also built with a stiff body and chassis structure that features specific bracing. For enhanced passenger safety, the convertible also includes a strengthened windscreen frame and integrated rollover bars that deploy upon sensing impact.
M Performance-tuned Adaptive M Suspension Professional features active anti-roll stabilisation as standard, for flatter cornering. It also deploys Integral Active Steering, which aids low-speed agility as well as high-speed stability.
The BMW 8 Series Convertible roof operates automatically via the touch of a button. It completes the opening or closing in 15 seconds, and can be activated at speeds of up to 50km/h.
As with all New Zealand-new BMW vehicles a five year warranty, three year service inclusive programme and five year roadside assist coverage is fully included.