BMW 8 Series Final Edition: A Glorious Farewell to the Grand Coupe Legacy
In the ever-evolving world of luxury automobiles, few nameplates evoke the same sense of prestige, elegance, and performance as the BMW 8 Series. Introduced in the late 1980s as a premium grand tourer, the 8 Series has undergone several reincarnations, most recently revived in 2018 as a modern-day fusion of power, luxury, and style. Now, as BMW prepares to retire this legendary nameplate once again, it marks the occasion with a special Final Edition — a limited-run celebration of one of its most iconic vehicles.
The new BMW 8 Series Final Edition is more than just a farewell. It represents the culmination of what BMW has mastered over the decades: the seamless integration of driving pleasure with refined aesthetics. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this special edition so remarkable, why it matters in BMW’s portfolio, and how it stacks up against competitors in its swansong moment.
A Look Back: The BMW 8 Series Legacy
Before exploring the Final Edition, it’s important to understand the legacy it commemorates. Originally launched in 1989, the first-generation 8 Series (E31) stood apart for its futuristic design, pop-up headlights, and V12 engine — traits that made it a symbol of 90s automotive extravagance. After a long hiatus, the name was revived in 2018 as the G15 generation, bringing a fresh take on BMW’s flagship coupe.
Offered in Coupe, Convertible, and Gran Coupe body styles, the modern 8 Series impressed with a choice of turbocharged inline-six and V8 engines, a rich suite of luxury features, and a presence that could rival Aston Martin or Mercedes-Benz AMG models.
But with changing market demands and the rise of electrification, BMW is sunsetting the 8 Series once again. The Final Edition stands as the ultimate homage.
The Final Edition: Features and Design Highlights
The BMW 8 Series Final Edition is exclusively available in Gran Coupe form, which means a four-door coupe silhouette that blends grand touring with family practicality. This variant was chosen likely because it’s the most popular and versatile of the lineup.
BMW has confirmed that the Final Edition will come in several unique paint options including Frozen Pure Grey, Frozen Deep Grey, and Sapphire Black — shades that subtly amplify the 8 Series’ elegant contours. The Shadow Line exterior package comes as standard, adding black accents to the kidney grille, window surrounds, and tailpipes, lending the car a more assertive stance.
On the inside, the Final Edition doesn’t hold back. Expect a cabin wrapped in BMW Individual Merino full leather, featuring contrast stitching, “Final Edition” badging on door sills, and optional carbon fiber or piano black trims. It’s a tailored, opulent environment that reminds drivers and passengers alike that this is no ordinary BMW.
Performance: Powertrains That Roar
While the Final Edition doesn’t receive any mechanical enhancements, it continues to offer impressive performance. Buyers will likely have a choice between the 840i, which houses a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, and the M850i xDrive, equipped with BMW’s potent 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8.
The 840i delivers around 335 hp and 500 Nm of torque, making it a smooth cruiser with respectable pace. The M850i, however, is the real performer, boasting 523 hp and capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.
With adaptive suspension, rear-wheel steering, and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the 8 Series Gran Coupe remains one of the most capable and comfortable long-distance tourers in its class.
Technology: Innovation Meets Elegance
The Final Edition comes equipped with the latest BMW iDrive 8 system, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen. The interface is sleek, fast, and loaded with features such as:
- BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Over-the-air software updates
- Real-time traffic and navigation services
For audiophiles, an optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround system transforms the cabin into a concert hall, while safety is bolstered by features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and 360-degree cameras.
BMW 8 Series Final Edition: Specifications Chart
| Feature | BMW 840i Gran Coupe | BMW M850i xDrive Gran Coupe |
| Engine | 3.0L Inline-6 Turbocharged | 4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8 |
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 523 hp |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 750 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h Acceleration | 5.2 seconds | 3.9 seconds |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drive Type | Rear-wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive (xDrive) |
| Paint Options | Frozen Grey, Black Sapphire | Frozen Deep Grey, Special M Colors |
| Interior Trim | Merino Leather | Merino Leather + Optional Carbon |
| Infotainment | iDrive 8, 14.9″ Touchscreen | iDrive 8, 14.9″ Touchscreen |
| Audio System | Harmon Kardon / B&W Optional | Bowers & Wilkins (Optional) |
| Wheels | 19” Standard / 20” Optional | 20” Standard |
| Estimated Starting Price (USD) | $91,000+ | $105,000+ |
A Limited Swan Song Before the Shift to EVs
BMW hasn’t officially confirmed what will replace the 8 Series, but sources suggest that it may be rolled into the upcoming electric Neue Klasse lineup, possibly with a luxury EV grand tourer on the horizon. This Final Edition serves as both a conclusion and a collector’s dream.
What makes the Final Edition special isn’t just the added trim or unique paint jobs; it’s the symbolic weight of an era ending. This car is a piece of history — a bridge between the traditional combustion-powered luxury GTs and the futuristic electric offerings BMW is poised to deliver.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the BMW 8 Series Final Edition?
A: It is a limited special edition of the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe, marking the end of production for the current-generation 8 Series.
Q2: Which body style is the Final Edition available in?
A: The Final Edition is only offered in the Gran Coupe variant (four-door coupe).
Q3: Does the Final Edition get performance upgrades?
A: No, it retains the same engines as the standard 840i and M850i, but adds unique design features and luxury enhancements.
Q4: How many units will be made?
A: BMW has not disclosed exact production numbers yet, but it is expected to be a limited-edition model, available in select markets only.
Q5: Is the Final Edition available in M8 trim?
A: As of now, BMW is only offering it for the 840i and M850i Gran Coupe versions.
Q6: Will the 8 Series be replaced?
A: While not officially confirmed, BMW may replace it with a new electric model under the Neue Klasse platform.
