• High performance two- and four-door sports sedans to complement local BMW M line-up in 2020 in Competition-only guise
• The all new BMW M8 Competition is the fastest BMW ever offered, accelerating from 0-100km/h in 3.2 seconds
• Blends outstanding performance with distinctive styling for a unique combination of racing flair and exclusivity
• Powered by a formidable high-revving eight-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology that produces 460kW and 750Nm

BMW M8 Competition pricing*

BMW M8 Competition Coupé                            $332,900*

BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupé                   $326,900*

The first ever BMW M8 Competition Coupé and Gran Coupé models are set to take the BMW 8 Series range to an even higher level of performance with both models available in New Zealand by Q2, 2020.

The two and four-door sports sedans benefit from the most powerful engine ever developed by BMW M for a production model: the 4.4-litre V8 with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology that has a peak output of 460kW.

Regardless of the driving style, the all new BMW M8 Competition Coupé and Gran Coupé provide a race car-like feel and feature an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic for precise shifts.

The powertrain, chassis and aerodynamics were tested extensively at BMW Group’s proving grounds, the Nürburgring-Nordschleife and other race circuits.

In addition, both models incorporate the celebrated M xDrive all-wheel-drive system that seamlessly transfers the engine’s power to the road via a centrally controlled interaction with the rear axle-mounted Active M Differential.

The M xDrive system has a rear-biased configuration in its default 4WD mode. Drivers can access a Setup menu to select 4WD Sport mode, which sends an even higher proportion of drive to the rear wheels. Deactivation of DSC brings 2WD mode into play, with drive fed exclusively through the rear wheels.

During vehicle development, track use demand prompted the implementation of model specific chassis technology, as well as the use of extremely stiff mountings connecting the chassis to the body.

The M8 Competition Coupé and Gran Coupé both include electronically controlled dampers and electromechanical M Servotronic steering, while a new M-specific integrated braking system enables two brake pedal settings to suit specific driving styles and situations.

Adjustment of the brake pedal functionality is accessible through the Setup function, where settings for the engine, dampers and steering can also be personalised.

Two individually composed variants of the M Setup can be stored and called up using the buttons on the steering wheel. The M Mode button on the centre console also allows driver assistance systems and the instrument cluster/Head-Up Display to be configured as required.

Drivers can select TRACK mode in addition to ROAD and SPORT modes depending on their preference.

The BMW M8 Competition Coupé and Gran Coupé are characterised by M design elements which leave no doubt as to the model’s extraordinary high-performance abilities.

The dramatic new exterior styling of both models displays a dynamically stretched silhouette, muscular shoulders and a distinctive standalone rear-end design.

The two models complement these aspects with larger air intakes at the front, aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors, a rear spoiler and CFRP roof.

The wheelbase of the M8 Competition Gran Coupé is 200 millimetres longer than that of the two-door BMW M8 Competition Coupé, allowing for exceptional levels of space in the rear compartment. The rear seat design evokes a sport-focused feel with individual character and integrated head restraints.

Other interior design highlights of the M8 Competition Gran Coupé include exclusive M Sport front seats with integrated illuminated M8 badging and bi-colour leather trim. The instrument cluster, Control Display and Head-Up Display also provide the driver with M-specific readouts.    

Equipment and options

Standard equipment:

• M xDrive
• M Sport Exhaust System
• M Carbon Engine Cover
• 20" M light alloy wheels Star-spoke style 813 M Bicolour with Performance Tyres
• M Sport Differential
• M Steptronic Sport transmission
• Tyre Pressure Indicator
• Tyre Repair Kit
• Alarm System
• Automatic Operation of Tailgate
• Comfort Access
• Soft Close Doors
• BMW Display Key
• M Carbon roof
• Floor Mats in Velour
• Warning Triangle & First Aid Kit
• Active Seat Ventilation in the Front Seats
• Lumbar Support
• Interior Trim Carbon Fibre
• M Seat Belts
• Heat Comfort package, front, incl. Seat Heating, Steering Wheel Heating and Heated Armrests
• High-Beam Assist
• Driving Assistant Professional
• BMW Laserlight
• Parking Assistant Plus
• Intelligent Emergency Call
• Teleservices
• ConnectedDrive Services
• Connected Package Professional
• Drive Recorder
• Wireless Charging
• BMW Live Cockpit Professional
• BMW Night Vision with person recognition
• DAB Tuner
• Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System
• M Sport Seats
• M Rear Spoiler
• BMW Individual High-Gloss Shadow Line
• BMW Individual Headliner Alcantara Anthracite
• M Competition Package
• M Driver's Package
• BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line with Extended Contents
• Chinese Language Display (NCO)
• BMW Individual Full Leather 'Merino' Upholstery
• BMW Individual Metallic Paintwork

Alloy wheels:

Standard fitment:

20" M light alloy wheels Star-spoke style 813 M Bicolour with performance tyres

F: 9.5J × 20, 275/35 R 20 R: 10.5J × 20, 285/35 R 20

Forged alloy

No cost option 1:

20" M light alloy wheels Star-spoke style 811 M Bicolour with performance tyres

F: 9.5J × 20, 275/35 R 20 R: 10.5J × 20, 285/35 R 20

No cost option 2:

20" M light alloy wheels Double-spoke style 810 M Jet Black with performance tyres

F: 9.5J × 20, 275/35 R 20 R: 10.5J × 20, 285/35 R 20

Paint finishes:

No cost options:

Non-metallic

-        Alpine White

Metallic

-        Black Sapphire

-        Brands Hatch Grey

-        Sonic Speed Blue

-        Marina Bay Blue

-        Donington Grey

-        Barcelona Blue

-        Motegi Red

BMW Individual Metallic

-        Dravit Grey

-        Almandine Brown

-        Aventurine Red

BMW Individual Special Metallic Paintwork

-        Frozen Bluestone ($2,600)

-        Brilliant White ($2,000)

-        Frozen Brilliant White ($2,600)

-        Frozen Cashmere Silver ($2,600)

-        Frozen Dark Silver ($2,600)

-        Frozen Dark Brown ($2,600)

-        Frozen Arctic Grey ($2,600)

-        Frozen Marina Bay Blue ($2,600)

-        Pure Metal Silver ($10,400)

Interior trims:

No cost options:

-        Carbon Fibre

-        BMW Individual Piano Finish Black

-        Fine-Wood Trim Ash Grain Grey Metallic High-Gloss

-        BMW Individual Fine-Wood Trim Ash Black Silver Effect High-Gloss

Upholstery:

No cost options:

-        Silverstone, Black interior colour

-        Sakhir Orange, Black interior colour

-        Midrand Beige, Black interior colour

-        Taruma Brown, Black interior colour

-        Black, Black interior colour

BMW Individual Full Leather 'Merino' Upholstery:

No cost options:

-        Ivory White / Night Blue, Ivory White interior colour

          Includes BMW Individual Headliner Alcantara in Night Blue

-        Ivory White / Tartufo, Tartufo interior colour

          Includes BMW Individual Headliner Alcantara in Ivory White

BMW M Carbon Ceramic Brakes with matte gold brake calipers and ‘M’ logo $16,500

BMW M Carbon Exterior Package $10,300*

Includes:

-        Front Apron: Air intake inserts, front left and right

-        Mirror Caps

-        Rear Spoiler

-        Rear Diffuser Insert

Performance and efficiency

* Recommended Retail Pricing is shown and includes GST, but excludes on-road costs. Customers are advised to contact their nearest BMW dealer for all pricing enquiries.

Condition Based Servicing

All maintenance requirements for the BMW M8 Competition Coupé and Gran Coupé are controlled by the Condition Based Servicing (CBS) system.

With CBS, sensors and advanced algorithms monitor and calculate the conditions in which a vehicle is used, including mileage, time elapsed since its last service, fuel consumption and how a vehicle is driven. Based on the information captured, maintenance requirements are determined, identifying whether an annual vehicle inspection or oil service is due.

Selected BMW service and maintenance costs can be covered by a single, one-off advance payment with BMW Service Inclusive (BSI), which is available in two packages: Basic or Plus.

Please find attached on location pictures and footage of the International Media Launch of the new BMW M8 Competition Coupe and the new BMW M8 Competition Convertible in Faro, Portugal.

Spielberg. BMW M GmbH presents the new spearhead to the MotoGP Safety Car fleet: the BMW M8 MotoGP Safety Car. The 625 hp lead car is based on the BMW M8 Competition (combined fuel consumption: 10.6 – 10.5 l/100 km*; combined CO₂ emissions: 242 – 238 g/km*), which made its world debut at the BMW Group #NextGen at BMW Welt in Munich at the end of June. The new BMW M8 MotoGP Safety Car will make its first appearance this weekend, at the MotoGP Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring in Austria.

Innovative high-performance automobiles for the safety of the top tier of motorcycles is the principle that has guided BMW M GmbH for more than 20 years as partner of MotoGP organiser Dorna Sports and ‘Official Car of MotoGP’. The Munich-based company has provided the official MotoGP Safety Car fleet since 1999 and the BMW M8 MotoGP Safety Car is the latest highlight in a long line of high-powered lead cars.

“The BMW M8 and the BMW M8 GTE were developed in parallel, and these racing genes distinguish the BMW M8 models in all areas,” said Markus Flasch, President of BMW M GmbH. “That’s why it was a logical step for us to choose the BMW M8 Competition as a basis for our new MotoGP safety car. Even in its production version, this high-performance automobile is suited to the racetrack. With its innovative technical features, it is yet another example of our quest to keep pushing the limit upwards. With the BMW M8 MotoGP Safety Car, we are really excited to present a new, powerful lead car for the top tier of motorcycle racing.”

The M power under the bonnet comes from the most powerful engine ever developed for a BMW M GmbH car. The high-revving V8 unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology develops 460 kW/625 hp. The high-performance power unit teams up with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, and the engine’s power is channelled to the road via the M xDrive all-wheeldrive system. One of the features that stands out in particular is a newly developed integrated braking system, an M-specific version of which presents the driver with two different brake pedal feel settings.

The precise interaction between powertrain, chassis technology and aerodynamics has been carefully honed over the course of intensive testing at the BMW Group’s test track near Miramas in southern France, the winter testing centre in Arjeplog, Sweden and the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit, along with other race circuits. Experience collected from the development of the BMW M8 GTE racing car also played a role in the configuration process. The performance-focused character of the engine, transmission and chassis allows the new BMW M8 Competition to power from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.2 seconds.

Painstaking manual work at the BMW M Manufaktur in Garching converted the high-performance base car into the BMW M8 MotoGP Safety Car, preparing it to appear as the course car in the world’s fastest motorcycle racing series. This process included the addition of numerous BMW M Performance Parts, many of which are available as retrofit parts for the BMW M8 production model. These emphasise the sporty appearance of the Safety Car and meet all the functional requirements for aerodynamics, cooling and lightweight construction. The transformation of the BMW M8 Competition to a MotoGP Safety Car was completed by the inclusion of special racing features and the necessary safety equipment.

Modifications for the BMW M8 MotoGP Safety Car.

• BMW M Performance titanium sport exhaust system*
• BMW M Performance carbon tail pipe finisher*
• BMW M Performance floor mats
• BMW M Performance carbon engine cover
• BMW M Performance carbon rear diffusor
• BMW M Performance steering wheel pro (with M Performance carbon cover and M Performance shift paddles)
• BMW M Performance carbon air breather side grill
• BMW M Performance carbon side skirts
• BMW M Performance logo decals
• Bonnet with ‘motorsport lock’
• Fuel suction pump
• Battery master switch
• Flashing corona headlight rings
• LED lights on the roof with bracket
• Front grille LED flasher
• RECARO racing seats with Schroth belts
• Roll cage
• Fire extinguisher with bracket
• Michelin Cup tyres
• Red foiled kidney grille
• Front spoiler with frozen black paint finish
• BMW floating hub cap
• BMW valve caps with M logo
• BMW M8 GTE rear wing
• Side skirts foiled black
• MotoGP livery
• Customised carbon flaps
• Light control panel

* not available in Europe

For more information about BMW M GmbH and the involvement as the ‘Official Car of MotoGP’, see: www.bmw-m.com

The new BMW M8 Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 10.6 – 10.5 l/100 km (26.6 – 26.9 mpg imp); CO₂ emissions combined: 242 – 238 g/km) and new BMW M8 Competition Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 10.6 – 10.5 l/100 km (26.6 – 26.9 mpg imp); CO₂ emissions combined: 242 – 238 g/km), plus the new BMW M8 Convertible (fuel consumption combined: 10.8 – 10.6 l/100 km (26.2 – 26.6 mpg imp); CO₂ emissions combined: 246 – 241 g/km) and new BMW M8 Competition Convertible (fuel consumption combined: 10.8 – 10.6 l/100 km (26.2 – 26.6 mpg imp); CO₂ emissions combined: 246 – 241 g/km).

The new models draw the energy for their exceptional performance exploits from the most powerful engine ever developed for a BMW M GmbH car. The high-revving V8 unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology develops 441 kW/600 hp in the new BMW M8 Coupe and new BMW M8 Convertible, and 460 kW/625 hp in the Competition models. The high-performance power unit teams up with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, and the engine’s power is channelled to the road via the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The model-specific chassis technology has been designed and tuned with the specific demands of track use in mind. One of the features of the chassis that stands out in particular is a newly developed integrated braking system, an M-specific version of which presents the driver with two different brake pedal feel settings. The new range-topping models from BMW M GmbH will celebrate their world premieres as part of the BMW Group #NextGen event taking place at BMW Welt in Munich on 25 – 27 June 2019.

The precise interaction between powertrain, chassis technology and aerodynamics has been carefully honed over the course of intensive testing at the BMW Group’s test track in Miramas in southern France, the winter testing centre in Arjeplog, Sweden and the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit, along with other race circuits. Experience collected from the development of the BMW M8 GTE racing car also played a role in the configuration process. The performance-focused character of the engine, transmission and chassis allows the new BMW M8 Coupe and new BMW M8 Convertible to power from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.3 / 3.4 seconds. The new BMW M8 Competition Coupe sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.2 seconds, the new BMW M8 Competition Convertible in 3.3 seconds.

Fast responses, a thirst for revs, and sustained power delivery: V8 engine with signature M performance traits.

The high-revving V8 engine presents a compelling blend of razor-sharp responses, a feverish appetite for revs and sustained power delivery across an extraordinarily wide rev band. The M TwinPower Turbo technology of the 4.4-litre unit includes a pair of turbochargers – positioned in the “V” between the cylinder banks and boasting optimised efficiency – and indirect charge air cooling, plus a direct fuel injection system working with maximum pressure of 350 bar. Another technological highlight is the cross-bank exhaust manifolds.

In the new BMW M8 Coupe and new BMW M8 Convertible, the engine serves up peak torque of 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) between 1,800 and 5,600 rpm – and goes on to deliver maximum output of 441 kW/600 hp at 6,000 rpm, en route to the 7,200 rpm cut-off. The power unit in the Competition models sustains its peak torque up to 5,800 rpm and develops maximum output of 460 kW/625 hp at 6,000 rpm, its race-derived, high-revving instincts taking an even more prominent lead. The most powerful variant of the V8 teams up with a special engine mounting for a more rigid connection with the vehicle structure. This results in even crisper engine response and also has a positive effect on the immediacy of turn-in and the transmission of engine noise into the cabin.

A sophisticated cooling system ensures optimum operating temperatures at all times, both in everyday use on urban routes and when the cars are stretching their legs on the track. The central cooling module, for example, is flanked by two high-temperature water circuits. And the system also features an additional engine oil cooler and separate transmission oil cooler. The particular challenges of track driving are reflected in the design of the oil supply system. The oil sump has a smaller front chamber, which steps in when extra capacity is needed. An additional suction stage allows the map-controlled oil pump to draw lubricant from the smaller chamber. This ensures a reliable supply of oil at all times, even under extreme lateral and longitudinal acceleration.

Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and M xDrive.

Power transfer is via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. The Drivelogic button on the newly designed selector lever allows the driver to select from three modes with specific shift characteristics for particularly efficient, sporty or ultra-dynamic driving. There are also M gearshift paddles on the steering wheel.

Another factor in the enthralling performance of the new BMW M8 models is the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system with its rear-biased setup. The centrally controlled interaction between M xDrive and the Active M Differential ensures loss-free transfer of the engine’s huge power to the road. And via the Setup menu, the driver can choose between the default 4WD setting and 4WD Sport mode, which diverts a larger slice of engine power to the rear wheels. Deactivating DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) brings 2WD mode into the equation. The transfer of power exclusively to the rear wheels and absence of stabilising inputs from the control systems add up to a driving experience of singular purity for the experienced wheelman.

M-specific chassis with extremely rigid mounting.

The new BMW M8 models provide a fresh take on the characteristic M feeling that translates into unbeatable directional stability even in extremely dynamic situations, a linear build-up of transverse loads however strong the lateral acceleration, and neutral steering behaviour even at the limit. The chassis technology comprises model-specific components and a setup fine-tuned in intensive testing on race tracks. At the same time, the chassis also lives up to the expectations of luxury car customers when it comes to everyday and long-distance comfort.

The rear axle also incorporates purpose-designed components to meet the exceptional handling dynamics required of high-performance sports cars. The M-specific forged links are one of the factors in the fleet-footed agility of the M8, while the precise responses of the suspension and damping elements are partly down to the anti-roll bars’ improved rigidity. Handling properties are given a further boost by the front end’s high torsional strength, which has been achieved with a tower-to-bulkhead strut and a newly developed, exceptionally rigid shear panel with integrated side sill connection. A steel X-brace and an aluminium transverse strut are fitted for an even more stable connection between the rear axle and the body.

The new BMW M8 models are also equipped as standard with M-specific Adaptive suspension including electronically controlled dampers and electromechanical M Servotronic steering. The DSC system hooks up with the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and the Active M Differential and also offers M Dynamic mode. This mode allows a greater degree of wheel slip and combines with the M xDrive system’s rear-biased setup to deliver an exceptionally sporty drive complete with controlled drifts through corners. Standard specification also includes 20-inch M light-alloy wheels in twin‑spoke design and high-performance tyres (front: 275/35 R 20, rear: 285/35 R 20).

Integrated braking system with configurable pedal feel.

As an alternative to the M compound brakes specified as standard, the new BMW M8 can also be ordered with optional M carbon-ceramic brakes. Both variants are fitted in conjunction with an M-specific version of an integrated braking system. Thanks to this cutting-edge technology, the brake activation, brake booster and braking control functions are brought together within a compact module. The brake pressure required is triggered by an electric actuator, which means it can be generated more dynamically, pedal feel is optimised and the interventions from the stability control system are significantly faster and more precise.

The version of the new braking system developed for BMW M models also presents the driver with two pedal settings. The driver can choose between a more comfort-oriented and a particularly direct, instantaneous pedal feel.

Distinctive design as an expression of dynamism and exclusivity.

The exclusive aura of the new BMW M8 models is further enhanced by model-specific features geared to the functional requirements of high-performance sports cars. Large air intakes and the BMW kidney grille with familiar M double bars at the front end, lavishly flared front wheel arches, M gills in the front side panels, aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors, a rear spoiler and a rear apron with diffuser elements in a contrasting colour create a fitting visual showcase for the dynamic potential and exclusive status of the new M contenders. An M Carbon exterior package is offered as an option.

Character-defining features of the new BMW M8 Coupe include the double-bubble contour of its carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof, reminiscent of classic racing cars. Passengers in the new BMW M8 Convertible are protected from the elements by a high-quality fabric roof pulled taut over the cabin. The multi-layer soft-top opens and closes in 15 seconds at the touch of a button, even while on the move.

Interior: signature M cockpit and luxurious ambience.

The interior of the new high-performance sports cars brings together an M‑specific cockpit design and progressive luxury. Standard specification for the BMW M8 Coupe, BMW M8 Convertible and Competition models includes model-specific leather upholstery options, the BMW Display Key, the BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific content, the Driving Assistant, the Parking Assistant and the BMW Live Cockpit Professional (with navigation system and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant). Additional driver assistance systems are available as options to provide a further boost to comfort and safety.

The new Setup button on the centre console enables direct access to the settings for the engine, dampers, steering, M xDrive and braking system so they can be tailored to personal preferences and the situation at hand. Two individually composed variants of this M setup can be stored permanently with the driver’s preferred settings for the engine sound, gearshift characteristics of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, driving stability control and Auto Start Stop function. The overall vehicle configuration can then be called up at any time by pressing one of the two M buttons on the steering wheel.

Another new feature is the M Mode button on the centre console, which the driver can use to adjust the driver assistance systems and the displays in the instrument cluster and Head-Up Display. M Mode allows the driver to activate ROAD and SPORT settings, while the Competition models also come with a TRACK setting designed exclusively for use on race circuits. Changing the mode alters the information presented to the driver on the screens, while the safety-enhancing interventions by the driver assistance systems – such as active braking or steering inputs – are reduced to a bare minimum or deactivated altogether.

Munich. The feeling of an M car is unmistakable – and now it can be tailored even more closely to the individual. BMW M GmbH is unveiling a new display and control system for the configuration of the powertrain, chassis and driver assistance systems on its high-performance sports cars. As well as additional scope for adapting the vehicle settings both to the situation at hand and to personal preferences using the Setup button, drivers will also enjoy the services of the new M Mode (activated at the touch of a button). The Setup button can be used to adjust the vehicle settings, while M Mode allows the displays and driver assistance systems to be tuned to the driver’s requirements. This extra individualisation and even more intuitive operation will be included for the first time in the new BMW M8 Coupe and BMW M8 Competition Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 10.6 – 10.5 l/100 km [26.7 – 26.9 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 242 – 238 g/km; provisional figures), and the new BMW M8 Convertible and BMW M8 Competition Convertible (fuel consumption combined: 10.8 – 10.6 l/100 km [26.2 – 26.7 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 246 – 241 g/km; provisional figures). With the help of these new features, drivers of BMW’s high-performance models for the luxury segment can enjoy their exceptional range of abilities – from supreme long-distance comfort to alluring track dynamics – in even greater depth.

The control system developed for BMW M models traditionally enables their powertrain and chassis technology to be configured in a wide variety of ways according to personal tastes and needs. Indeed, the driver can activate various settings for the engine, suspension and steering independently of one another. In models specified with the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the distribution of power between the front and rear wheels can also be tweaked. And now the new BMW M8 Coupe and new BMW M8 Convertible offer the ability to configure the braking system as required, too.

New Setup button enables intuitive operation with direct access to all powertrain and chassis systems.

The new Setup button on the centre console of the new BMW M8 Coupe and new BMW M8 Convertible enables direct access to all available setup options for five vehicle parameters. Pressing the button brings up a Setup menu in the Control Display, which offers an overview of the vehicle settings currently engaged. The driver can then activate their desired mode for the engine, suspension, steering, brakes and M xDrive – in a single step in each case – via the touchscreen or the iDrive Controller.

The engine characteristics can be adjusted by means of the EFFICIENT, SPORT and SPORT PLUS settings, while the COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT PLUS chassis options give access to the three profiles for the electronically controlled dampers. The driver can also choose between COMFORT and SPORT for both the M-specific electromechanical steering and the new braking system. When DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) is deactivated, the 4WD, 4WD SPORT and 2WD (for pure rear-wheel drive) settings for the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system also come into play. Two individually composed variants of this setup can be stored permanently with the driver’s preferred settings for the engine sound, gearshift characteristics, driving stability control and Auto Start Stop function. The overall vehicle configuration can then be called up instantly at any time by pressing one of the two M buttons on the steering wheel.

Premiere in the BMW M8: integrated braking system with precise pedal feel and M-specific configurability.

The M-specific version of a new braking technology paves the way for the configuration of braking characteristics, a feature available for the first time in the new BMW M8. The new system brings together the brake activation, brake booster and braking control functions within a compact module. The integrated braking system reduces weight by around two kilograms and employs a vacuum-free brake booster to enhance the car’s overall efficiency. The brake pressure required is triggered by an electric actuator, which allows it to be generated more dynamically and also ensures significantly faster and more precise interventions from the driving stability control system.

The integrated braking system also does an excellent job of allowing vehicle deceleration to be geared precisely to the driver’s requirements and of generating sublime pedal feel in any situation. Braking feedback to the driver is unimpaired by wet road surfaces, significant lateral acceleration or high brake temperatures, and this ensures precise metering of braking power at all times. The version of the new braking system developed for BMW M models also presents the driver with two pedal feel settings.

COMFORT and SPORT modes alter the amount of pressure on the brake pedal required to slow the car. This allows the driver to choose between a comfort-oriented perception of the braking process and a particularly direct, instantaneous response to applications of the pedal. The new BMW M8 teams this innovative system with both the standard M compound brakes and optional M carbon-ceramic brakes.

Pure driving pleasure through innovation: the M Mode button.

In addition to the new configuration options opened up by the Setup button, the new BMW M8 also allows the gearshift characteristics of the eight-speed Steptronic transmission to be adjusted using the Drivelogic button on the selector lever and the engine sound to be varied via a separate button on the centre console. M Dynamic Mode – which raises the intervention thresholds for the driving stability control and allows controlled drifts – and DSC Off mode can also be initiated at the touch of a button.

A fresh addition to the new flagship models from BMW M GmbH is the M Mode button on the centre console. This can be used to alter the responses of the driver assistance systems and the screens in the all-digital instrument cluster and Head-Up Display. M Mode allows the driver to activate ROAD and SPORT modes, while the new BMW M8 Competition Coupe and BMW M8 Competition Convertible also come with a TRACK setting. These options enhance the hallmark M driving experience according to the situation at hand. Changing the settings alters the information presented to the driver on the screens, while the safety-enhancing interventions by the driver assistance systems – such as active braking or steering inputs – are reduced to a bare minimum or deactivated altogether.

In the default ROAD setting, all the standard and optional driver assistance systems are fully activated. A simple press of the M Mode button engages the SPORT setting, in which the active driver assistance systems (in the configuration set by the driver) now only transmit alerts on speed limits and overtaking restrictions. This mode disables all interventions in the braking and steering systems, aside from those made by the Collision Warning with braking function and the Evasion Assistant.

In SPORT mode, the driver benefits from M View in both the instrument cluster and the Head-Up Display. Here, only relevant information for sporty driving – i.e. an M-specific engine speed dial and the shift lights (which indicate the ideal time to change gear), a digital speed display and the gear currently engaged – is displayed in the cockpit. Information on coolant temperature, charge pressure, tyre condition, and longitudinal and lateral acceleration can be viewed in the right- and left-hand areas of the instrument cluster. The Head-Up Display read-out is concentrated around the engine revs and shift lights, navigation instructions and distance warnings, the gear selected and the vehicle speed, plus the speed limits and overtaking restrictions detected by the Speed Limit Info system. Pressing the M Mode button again returns the driver to the default ROAD mode.

An extended press of the M Mode button engages TRACK mode, which is available in the Competition models and designed exclusively for use on race circuits. The decision to activate this mode must be confirmed using the iDrive Controller. In this setting, all the comfort and safety functions of the driver assistance systems are deactivated. In addition, the audio system and Control Display are both switched off in order to focus the driver’s attention even more intently on the road ahead. TRACK mode allows drivers of the new BMW M8 Competition Coupe and new BMW M8 Competition Convertible to experience an ultra-pure, racing-car-inspired distillation of M feeling. Added to which, the instrument cluster and Head-Up Display also include M View, although TRACK mode blanks out the road sign detection and distance information. Pressing the M Mode button again takes the car out of the TRACK setting and back into ROAD mode.

• New BMW M8 (Fuel consumption combined: 10.8 – 10.7 l/100 km [26.2 – 26.4 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 246 – 243 g/km) in the final phase of the series production development process.
• Customary BMW M dynamic prowess, agility and precision enter a new dimension.
• Performance-oriented vehicle concept with minimised weight, low centre of gravity, even weight distribution, optimum wheelbase and wide tracks.
• M-specific optimisations further increase already high levels of rigidity in the body structure, chassis components and chassis mounting.
• M-specific suspension delivers exceptional directional stability, steering precision and cornering dynamics.
• High-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology produces north of 440 kW/600 hp. Fully variable transfer of power via M xDrive all-wheel-drive system with rear-wheel bias and 2WD mode.
• Market launch of the BMW M8 Coupe in the course of 2019. Further model variants: BMW M8 Convertible, BMW M8 Gran Coupe.