.jpg)
BMW has unveiled the new 2018 8-Series, reviving the model for the 21st century since production of the original 8-Series ended in 1999.
.jpg)
Classed as a Grand Tourer, the new 8-Series was teased in concept form earlier this year with the M8 Gran Coupe. While the production version has its differences, the spirit of the concept is represented well with a long, low-slung body and aggressive styling to emphasise the new 8-Series’ sportiness.
.jpg)
The styling follows BMW's new design language, with an emphasis on the kidney-grille shape and raked back headlights, a stark difference to the original 8-Series that had a slim, low-slung bonnet and pop-up headlights:
.jpg)
The original BMW 8-Series of the 1990s
.jpg)
While no Australian arrival date has been announced yet, the new 8-Series is expected to go on sale in Europe late this year, and should arrive to Australian shores after that.
.jpg)
In Europe, there will be two variants of the 8-Series: the high-powered petrol version named the M850i xDrive, and a diesel-version named the 840d xDrive.
.jpg)
The flagship petrol variant packs a 4.4L twin-turbo V8, churning out 390kW of power and 750Nm of torque – enough to complete the 0-100km/h sprint in just 3.7 seconds.
.jpg)
Meanwhile, the diesel version offers up 235kW and 680Nm of torque from its 3.0L inline-6 turbo engine. With a 0-100km/h time of 4.9 seconds, the 840d xDrive is more of a grand tourer than an all-out sports car, although both models do offer BMW’s all-wheel-drive system for improved stability and handling.
While the new 8-Series has all the hallmarks of a serious performance car, it also has some business focused features for road warriors – namely integrating with Microsoft Office 365 and Skype for Business. That means that you’ll be able to access your email account from the car and manage appointments and contacts. You can also have your emails read out to you, and give voice commands to send new messages while on the move.
.jpg)
Microsoft Office 365 users can also use Skype for Business in the car - upcoming Skype meetings are automatically detected and you can join the teleconference while you drive.
.jpg)
Pricing and availability for the new 8-Series has yet to be announced.
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
11 Dec 2017
Total posts 50
I’ve always felt as though cars are the final frontier of FF programs. Obviously QF have had various partnerships previously (ie Trivett), but an expansion into lux car brands could easily benefit both parties.
Emirates Airlines - Skywards
30 Nov 2015
Total posts 729
I remember the old pop up head lights. Nothing looked so clapped out as when one went bung and one wouldn't go down. Yuck.
Virgin Australia - Velocity Rewards
14 Mar 2017
Total posts 152
The original 8 was a design masterpiece that had presence even at the time, and made its competitor, the Mercedes 560SEL, look dated (though it took them a few years to catch it in the engine department).
Virgin Australia - Velocity Rewards
14 Mar 2017
Total posts 152
Whoops. That should have been SEC, in case anyone cares.
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
02 Jul 2011
Total posts 1374
Hi Guest, join in the discussion on BMW unveils new 8-Series