BMW’s new 8-series Convertible has made its public debut at the Los Angeles motor show. The 8-series coupe, on which the drop-top is based on, was unveiled earlier this year. BMW aims to take on the Mercedes S-class Cabriolet as well as the Bentley Continental GT Convertible with its new model.
The 8-series Convertible is powered by a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbo-diesel engine in the 840d xDrive, which produces 320hp and 681Nm of torque, as well as a 4.4-litre turbo-petrol V8 in the M850i xDrive, which is rated at 530hp and 748Nm of torque. These engines will be paired with an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission made by ZF. As the names suggest, both engines will get BMW’s xDrive four-wheel-drive system. Despite the new 8-series Convertible being positioned above the old 6-series Convertible, the former is 56mm shorter at 4,843mm in length, while its width and height are 1,902mm and 1,339mm, respectively.
Design-wise the 8-series Convertible looks the same as the Coupe, with the only difference being the retractable soft-top roof. On the inside, the 8-series Convertible comes in a 2+2 configuration. The split folding (50:50) rear seats adds a bit of practicality by increasing cargo space. The rest of the cabin is in-line with the rest of the new generation of BMWs, both in terms of layout and features on offer. BMW has also provides a retractable mesh screen that can be used to reduce wind buffeting.
The 8-series Convertible will go on sale internationally by the end of this year, with deliveries early next year. However, BMW has made no statement regarding an India launch. The 8-series Convertible will also get a base petrol engine next year as well as a range-topping M8 variant with the 4.4-litre turbo-petrol in a higher state of tune.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Uday Singh
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