BMW has chopped the top off of its 8 Series and created a gorgeous convertible. The good news is that it's coming to South Africa in early 2019. Let's find out more.
The striking BMW 8 Series family has been joined by a convertible version. We knew it was coming as there were a handful of pre-production units floating around which our spy photographers snapped and our render done by our in-house artist was pretty much spot on.
BMW claims this open-top sports car "explores the highest reaches of dynamic flair, emotionality and exclusivity." The BMW 8 Series convertible is a two-door, four-seater grand tourer and is assembled alongside its coupe sibling in Dingolfing, Germany. From launch, there are two engines; a petrol and a diesel, but the South African market will only be receiving the fire-breathing M850i xDrive derivative. This 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine produces a stonking 390 kW and 750 Nm, giving it serious performance credentials. BMW claims its new convertible can hit 100 kph in a claimed 3.9 seconds. Power goes to BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive setup, via the latest version of the 8-speed Steptronic Sport gearbox, with gearshift paddles located on the steering wheel.
The soft-top roof is electrically operated and can open and close in 15 seconds at speeds of up to 50 kph. BMW is offering a wind deflector as standard, with neck warmers available as an option for those customers who wish to experience open-top motoring in cold conditions. Most convertibles lose their practicality thanks to the roof mechanism, but BMW claims that its new 8 Series Convertible retains a usable amount of storage space thanks to a folding rear seat backrest which folds down in 50:50 fashion. With the roof closed, the storage capacity is rated at 350 litres.
BMW SA says its new 8 Series Convertible will go on sale in the first quarter of 2019.
Further Reading:
Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe (2018) International Launch Review
BMW 8 Series Concept Revealed [with Video]
BMW M8 Gran Coupe Concept Shown in Geneva [w/Video]
Rendering: BMW M8
BMW 8 Series Convertible Launch Video
