The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe is a marvel of modern automotive engineering. This high-performance luxury vehicle is the epitome of BMW’s commitment to excellence, combining the comfort and elegance of a premium sedan with the raw power and agility of a sports car. The M8 Gran Coupe is part of the BMW M Performance, a lineup known for its high-performance vehicles.
The M8 Gran Coupe is not just a car; it’s an experience. From its sleek, aerodynamic design to its powerful engine and advanced driving technologies, every aspect of the M8 Gran Coupe is designed to deliver a superior driving experience. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or navigating through city streets, the M8 Gran Coupe delivers a smooth, responsive ride that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe is a car that commands respect on the road. Its powerful engine, coupled with BMW’s advanced driving technologies, ensures a driving experience like no other. With its striking design and luxurious interior, the M8 Gran Coupe is a car that’s sure to turn heads wherever it goes.
Exterior Design of the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe
Body and Design
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe is a testament to modern design and engineering. Its exterior design is characterized by a powerful, sweeping four-door body with wide flanks and sharp, creased modern lines. The rear track measures 65.4 inches, which is 1.5 inches wider than the M8 Coupe, giving it a more robust stance.
Windshield and Roof
The design of the M8 Gran Coupe diverges from the M8 Coupe from a-pillar back, with modifications made to increase interior space and deliver a vehicle with a commanding presence. The windshield has less rake than the Coupe, allowing the roofline to rise to a higher point above the front seats. This design choice provides increased headroom for both front and rear passengers.
The roof merges seamlessly into the rear trunk lid, with fin-like transitional lines creating the visual impression of a long and flowing body. The rear glass is mounted at an increased rake to enlarge the trunk opening and also serves as a fixed part of the body’s structure. This design increases torsional rigidity and reduces noise entering the cabin.
Unique Features
A unique feature of the M8 Gran Coupe is the subtle flying buttress design of the rear glass surround. The finishing folds of the metalwork are done by hand, allowing for a truly elegant design to be delivered to each owner.
The M8 Gran Coupe comes standard with an M Carbon Roof. This feature helps to lower the vehicle’s weight and center of gravity, leading to improved agility. A multi-functional antenna is integrated into the rear glass, eliminating the need for the traditional roof-mounted shark fin antenna.
Front Design of the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe
The front of the 2020 M8 Gran Coupe is adorned with standard Icon Adaptive LED Headlights with Laserlight. These flank the one-piece hexagonal BMW kidney grille surround, which frames active air intake slats. Large openings on either side of the front bumper give the low-slung front end an aggressive appearance. The Hofmeister kink in the expansive C-pillar ties the flowing side profile lines of the Gran Coupe to heavily sculptured rear fenders and trunk lid. Slim LED rear lights stand high above quad, electric, flap-controlled 100mm exhaust.
Lightweight Materials
An intelligent mix of lightweight materials helps to reduce weight in the BMW M8 Gran Coupe. Aluminum construction is used for the doors, hood, roof, front bulkhead, engine subframe, and rear bumper support. The trunk lid is made from dent-resistant plastic while the cabin dashboard support is made from magnesium and parts of the center driveline tunnel are made from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic.
Exterior Design for the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe boasts a striking exterior design that exudes sophistication and power. Its long, sweeping roofline and muscular contours give it a dynamic silhouette that’s both elegant and sporty. The M8 Gran Coupe’s bold front end, featuring BMW’s iconic kidney grille and aggressive headlights, makes a strong first impression.
Interior Design Features for the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe’s interior design is a blend of luxury and performance, offering exclusive features that set it apart as a top-tier model in BMW’s lineup.
2011 Porsche 911 Turbo S Coupe: A Timeless Classic
Steering and Control
The M leather steering wheel is equipped with M shift paddles and programmable red M1 and M2 buttons. These buttons allow for customization of various modes, including engine, suspension, steering, xDrive, and braking system settings. A newly designed gear shift lever with a red accent is conveniently located next to the red start/stop button in the center console.
Seating
The 2020 M8 Gran Coupe comes standard with exclusive M Sport seats, featuring illuminated M badging below the headrest area. The M8 Competition models take it a step further with M seatbelts that feature highlight stitching in BMW Motorsport colors.
Driver’s Tools
The M8 Gran Coupe is equipped with M-specific displays for the instrument cluster and Head-Up display, providing the driver with all the necessary tools to fully enjoy the driving experience. The seating surfaces feature 3D quilting, adding a touch of luxury for all passengers.
Extended Center Console
The extended center console in the M8 Gran Coupe is unique to the four-door 8 Series models. It extends from the front cabin into the rear space, dividing the individually-styled right and left seats while still allowing for the rear center seat space to be used when needed. The rear console offers passengers individual right and left climate controls, air vents, a storage tray, and USB-C ports.
Ambient Lighting
The standard ambient light feature emphasizes the forward-pointing lines inside the car to a striking effect. Indirect illumination of the contour lines running along the center console and the door shoulders using precisely positioned LED optical fibers creates an exclusive mood.
The Exclusive 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe First Edition
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe First Edition is a limited-edition model that takes the already impressive M8 Gran Coupe to new heights. With only 50 units available for the U.S. market, the First Edition is a truly exclusive offering that combines the performance of the Competition model with unique design elements inspired by the M8 Gran Coupe Concept vehicle.
Enhance Your Driving Experience with BMW Accessories
Exterior Features of the First Edition
The M8 Gran Coupe First Edition is finished in Individual Diamant Green Metallic, a color exclusive to this limited edition model. This unique color, combined with GOLDBRONZE accents on the BMW Kidney grille, side air breather trim, door mirror and window-surround trim, exterior badging, and door sill plates, gives the First Edition a distinctive and eye-catching appearance.
Adding to the First Edition’s unique look are exclusive 20-inch Forged M Star-Spoke wheels finished in GOLDBRONZE. These wheels not only enhance the car’s aesthetic appeal but also contribute to its performance by reducing unsprung weight.
Interior Features of the First Edition
Inside, the M8 Gran Coupe First Edition is just as impressive. The interior is finished in BMW Individual Ivory White/Tartufo Full Merino leather, providing a luxurious and comfortable environment for both the driver and passengers. The First Edition also features Individual Piano Black trim, adding a touch of elegance to the interior.
One of the most distinctive features of the First Edition’s interior is the “First Edition 1/400” inscription on the center console door. This serves as a constant reminder of the car’s exclusivity and the fact that you’re driving one of only 400 First Edition models produced worldwide.
Availability of the First Edition
The production of the limited U.S. M8 Gran Coupe First Edition cars began in March 2020. With only 50 units available for the U.S. market, the First Edition is a rare and exclusive model that offers a unique blend of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. Whether you’re a BMW enthusiast or a collector of rare cars, the M8 Gran Coupe First Edition is a model that’s sure to impress.
M Power and Performance: Unleashing the Beast Within the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe is more than just a luxury sports car; it’s a testament to BMW’s engineering prowess. At the heart of this beast lies a high-revving 4.4-liter S63 M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine that pushes the boundaries of performance.
Engine Specifications and Performance
The M8 Gran Coupe’s engine is a marvel of modern engineering. It produces a staggering 600 hp at 6,000 rpm and 553 lb-ft of torque between 1,800 and 5,600 rpm. But for those who crave even more power, the M8 Competition models feature an uprated power unit that churns out an impressive 617 hp at 6,000 rpm and 553 lb-ft of torque between 1,800 and 5,860 rpm.
The engine features two turbochargers, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, direct injection, and upgraded cooling and oil supply systems. The turbochargers are strategically positioned within the V of the engine block to improve thermal efficiency and response. The cross-bank exhaust manifolds reduce the distance the exhaust gases need to flow to reach the turbochargers, thereby improving turbocharger and throttle response.
Advanced Cooling and Oil Supply Systems
The M8 Gran Coupe’s advanced cooling system comprises two separate water circuits – one for the intercoolers and one for the engine and turbochargers. An electric cooling pump ensures that the turbochargers receive sufficient coolant flow even after the engine has been turned off. The car also features additional engine oil and transmission oil coolers to withstand the higher thermal demands of track driving.
The oil supply system has been upgraded with a secondary front chamber in the oil pan, accessed by a map-controlled oil suction pump. This ensures an effective oil supply during extreme lateral and longitudinal forces, keeping the engine running smoothly even under high-performance conditions.
Unique Features of the Competition Model
The Competition model of the M8 Gran Coupe not only produces more horsepower but also increases the torque band by 260 rpm. The engine mounts on these models are more rigid compared to the standard M8 Gran Coupe, improving power transmission throughout the driveline and providing more immediate turn-in during cornering.
The Competition models are also equipped with the M Sport exhaust, which enhances the sound emanating from the two twin-100 mm exhaust tips, giving the car a more aggressive and sporty sound. An M Sound Control button in the center console allows the driver to select the exhaust note that suits their preference.
Acceleration and Top Speed for the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe
The wide and flat torque curve of the S63 engine allows the BMW M8 Gran Coupe to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. The M8 Gran Coupe Competition model, with its increased power, accomplishes the sprint in an even quicker 3.0 seconds.
The BMW M8 Gran Coupe models have an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph, which can be increased to 190 mph with the optional M Driver’s Package. Besides the increased top speed, the M Driver’s Package also includes an invitation to M School driver training at one of the two BMW Performance Center driving schools, either in Greer, SC, or Thermal, CA. This allows drivers to fully explore the capabilities of their M8 Gran Coupe in a safe and controlled environment.
M Eight-Speed Steptronic Transmission with Drivelogic: The Powerhouse Behind the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe’s Performance
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe’s impressive performance is not just due to its powerful engine, but also its advanced transmission system. The car features an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission that works in harmony with the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system to deliver a smooth, responsive, and exhilarating driving experience.
Transmission Operation and Drivelogic System
The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission can be operated via the new center console-mounted gear selector lever or with the M shift paddles on the steering wheel. This gives drivers the flexibility to choose between automatic and manual modes, depending on their preference and the driving conditions.
The M8 Gran Coupe’s transmission also features a Drivelogic system, which allows the driver to select the comfort and speed of gear shifts. With the push of a button, drivers can choose from comfort-oriented gear shifts for a smooth, relaxed drive, to sport and track-focused shifting for a more dynamic and engaging driving experience.
Intelligent Networking and Adaptive Shift Parameters
One of the most impressive features of the M8 Gran Coupe’s transmission is its ability to adapt shift parameters to the current driving situation. This is achieved through intelligent networking with the standard Navigation system, which enables the transmission controller to take the planned route into account.
For example, when approaching an intersection, the system can downshift early to use engine braking to slow the car down. This not only enhances driving comfort but also improves fuel efficiency. Similarly, the intelligent controller can avoid unnecessary gear shifts between two corners that follow in quick succession, allowing for a quicker and smoother drive-through.
The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic is a key component of the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe’s superior performance. It not only ensures a smooth and responsive ride but also enhances driving comfort and efficiency, making the M8 Gran Coupe a truly remarkable luxury sports car.
M xDrive All-Wheel Drive and Active M Differential: Enhancing the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe’s Performance
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe’s performance is further enhanced by its M xDrive intelligent rear-biased all-wheel-drive system and Active M differential. These advanced systems work together to distribute the engine’s power and torque effectively, increasing the car’s performance to near-supercar levels.
M xDrive All-Wheel Drive System
The M xDrive system makes the most use of the M8 Gran Coupe’s power and torque. The engine’s torque is distributed between the front and rear wheels via the transfer case’s electronically-controlled multi-plate clutch. This rear-biased system only sends torque to the front wheels when extra traction is required, providing the driver with a traditional rear-wheel-drive experience and the added traction of all four wheels when the engine’s full power output is required.
The M xDrive system’s added traction also reduces the need for the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system to intrude, reducing power losses and ensuring a smooth, responsive ride. This makes the M8 Gran Coupe not just fast, but also incredibly stable and safe to drive.
Active M Differential
The Active M differential further enhances the M8 Gran Coupe’s performance by handling power distribution in the rear axle. This ensures optimal power distribution and superior handling, whether you’re on the track or the open road.
Tailoring Your Driving Experience
The M xDrive system allows the driver to tailor their driving experience via several available modes. The default 4WD mode focuses on providing maximum traction and controlled handling. The 4WD Sport mode sharpens the M8’s response and agility further while sending more power to the rear wheels during dynamic driving.
For experienced drivers, deactivating DSC allows for 2WD mode, which activates a unique rear-wheel-drive-only mode. This gives drivers the opportunity to truly unleash the M8 Gran Coupe’s performance potential and experience the thrill of driving a high-performance rear-wheel-drive car.
The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and Active M differential are key contributors to the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe’s exceptional performance. They not only enhance the car’s speed and power but also improve its stability and handling, making the M8 Gran Coupe a joy to drive in any situation.
The 2022 BMW ALPINA B8 Gran Coupe
Chassis, Suspension, and Steering: The Foundation of the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe’s Performance
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe’s performance is built on a foundation of advanced chassis, suspension, and steering systems. These systems have been carefully engineered and rigorously tested to meet the demands of both track driving and comfortable street capabilities.
Chassis and Suspension
The chassis and suspension of the M8 Gran Coupe have been developed and tested at locations such as the BMW Group test track in Miramas in southern France, the winter testing center in Arjeplog, Sweden, and the famous NĂĽrburgring Nordschleife circuit. This rigorous testing ensures that the car delivers exceptional performance in a wide range of conditions.
The M8 Gran Coupe is equipped with double-wishbone front and five-link rear suspensions with unique bushings, swivel bearings, and strut tie bars. These components ensure accurate wheel location and reduced torque steer. Acting forces are directed through the control arms and wishbones into the suspension sub-frames and from there into the rigid body of the vehicle. This design provides handling and agility without compromising comfort.
Adaptive M Suspension
The standard Adaptive M Suspension uses data from body movement, road surface conditions, and steering input to adjust each damper individually within milliseconds using electromagnetic valves. This ensures that the M8 Gran Coupe is both track-capable and comfortable on the road.
The Adaptive M Suspension offers three settings that allow the suspension responses to be fine-tuned to the driver’s needs. Comfort mode smooths out road imperfections while still providing excellent handling. Sport mode sharpens the vehicle’s responses and is suitable for fast road conditions. Sport Plus is designed for maximum capabilities on race track circuits.
Competition Model Enhancements
The Competition models of the M8 Gran Coupe feature firmer suspension settings to further improve steering and lateral responses. They also have stiffer engine mounts, increased front negative camber for increased cornering ability, and rear toe-link ball joints instead of rubber bushings for more precise rear wheel tracking.
M Servotronic Steering
The electromechanical M Servotronic steering provides speed-sensitive power assistance with a variable steering ratio. This design provides more straight-line stability, sharper turn-in response, and excellent accuracy in corners. When the wheels are sharply turned, the variable steering rack’s teeth are positioned closer together, so smaller steering inputs are required. This makes the M8 Gran Coupe feel nimble on winding roads and easily maneuverable in tight parking spaces. The steering feels can be varied between Comfort and Sport modes, which allow for varying degrees of steering feedback and effort.
The advanced chassis, suspension, and steering systems of the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe contribute significantly to its exceptional performance. They ensure that the car is not only fast and powerful but also stable, agile, and comfortable to drive in a wide range of conditions.
M Mode Setup Button and M Views: Customizing the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe Driving Experience
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe introduces a new level of customization to the driving experience with the M Mode setup button and M Views. These features allow drivers to adjust various settings to suit their driving style and conditions, enhancing both performance and comfort.
M Mode Setup Button
The M8 Gran Coupe features a new single setup button, located in the center console, which provides control over the engine, suspension, steering, and xDrive settings. This is a significant change from past M cars, which operated these settings via individual control buttons. The new setup button also allows for control over the integrated braking system and its Comfort and Sport modes.
Pressing the setup button brings up the setup screen on the center display, allowing various settings to be chosen and saved to the steering wheel-mounted M1 and M2 buttons. Available settings include engine characteristics (Efficient, Sport, and Sport Plus), suspension characteristics (Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus), steering characteristics (Comfort and Sport), braking characteristics (Comfort and Sport), and 4WD settings (4WD, 4WD Sport, and 2WD).
M Mode Button and M Views
The M Mode button on the center console allows for the individual configuration of driver assistance settings, instrument cluster, and Head-Up display settings. The M8 Gran Coupe offers Road and Sport settings, while the Competition model adds an additional Track setting. Changing the mode allows for different information to be presented to the driver on the digital instrument screen and in the Head-Up display. The intervention levels of the driver assistance systems can also be reduced or turned off completely.
In the default Road mode, all standard and optional driver assist systems are fully operational, and full information displays are available in the digital instrument display and Head-Up display. Sport mode, activated by pressing the M mode button, allows the driver to adjust or turn off various assistance systems. The M View is activated for both the instrument cluster and Head-Up display, with a focus on performance-related information.
Track mode, available on the M8 Gran Coupe Competition model, is designed for use on closed tracks. In this mode, driver assistance system intervention is turned off, and the audio system and center control display is also turned off to allow the driver to concentrate on the road ahead.
The M Mode setup button and M Views in the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe offer a high level of customization, allowing drivers to tailor the car’s performance and handling to their preferences. These features enhance the driving experience, making the M8 Gran Coupe a truly driver-focused vehicle.
Brakes, Wheels, and Tires: The Groundwork of the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe’s Performance
The performance of the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe is not only about its powerful engine and advanced suspension. The car’s brakes, wheels, and tires also play a crucial role in its exceptional performance, providing the necessary stopping power, grip, and stability.
M Compound Brakes
The M8 Gran Coupe models are equipped with standard M compound brakes featuring drilled, vented brake disks measuring 395 mm in front and 380 mm in the rear. The front fixed, six-piston calipers, and rear floating, single-piston calipers provide excellent braking stability under the heaviest of loads.
For those seeking even greater stopping power, the optional M Carbon ceramic brakes are available. These brakes increase the front brake disk diameter to 400 mm and, combined with the rear 380 mm disks, offer exceptional resistance to both heat and wear.
Integrated Brake-by-Wire System
The M8 Gran Coupes feature the latest version of BMW M’s integrated brake-by-wire system. This system combines braking activation, brake booster, and brake control functions into one compact module. This design saves almost 4.5 pounds over a conventional braking system and eliminates the vacuum-based components. The electric actuator ensures a faster and more precise brake response and pedal feel in all road and temperature conditions. The M integrated braking system offers two settings; Comfort and Sport, which can vary brake pedal feedback and response based on the driver’s preferences.
M Light-Alloy Wheels and High-Performance Tires
The new BMW M8 Gran Coupe models are equipped with standard M light-alloy wheels; 9.5 x 20 inches in front and 10.5 x 20 inches in the rear. Non-run-flat, high-performance tires in 275/35R20 front and 285/35R20 rear provide the grip needed to cope with the high levels of torque produced by the S63 engine.
The Competition models come standard with unique, forged 20-inch M light-alloy wheels with a gloss-milled 3D structure and bicolor design. These wheels generate unique light reflections that showcase the cars’ exclusivity.
The advanced brakes, wheels, and tires of the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe contribute significantly to its exceptional performance. They ensure that the car is not only fast and powerful but also stable, agile, and safe to drive in a wide range of conditions.
Safety and Driver Assistance for the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe
Safety Features
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe is equipped with a range of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. These include BMW’s Active Protection System, which prepares the car for an imminent collision by automatically pre-tensioning safety belts, closing windows and moonroof, and activating post-crash braking. The M8 Gran Coupe also features BMW’s Active Guard, which includes Frontal Collision Warning, City Collision Mitigation, and Lane Departure Warning.
In addition to these standard safety features, the M8 Gran Coupe also offers a range of optional safety features. These include the Driving Assistance Professional Package, which includes Extended Traffic Jam Assistant for limited access highways, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Active Lane Keeping Assistant with side collision avoidance, Steering, and Traffic Jam Assistant, and Automatic Lane Change.
Driver Assistance Features
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe is designed to make driving easier and more enjoyable with a range of driver assistance features. These include the standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional, which features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch central information display. This system provides all the information you need at a glance, from navigation and entertainment to vehicle status and driving data.
The M8 Gran Coupe also features BMW’s iDrive 7.0 system, which includes a touchscreen, iDrive touchpad Controller, voice control, and optional Gesture Control. This system allows you to easily control a range of functions, from navigation and entertainment to vehicle settings and driver assistance features. With the M8 Gran Coupe, you’re always in control.
Pricing and Availability
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe is a luxury sports car that offers an unparalleled blend of performance and luxury. But such a car comes with a price to match. The M8 Gran Coupe has a starting MSRP of $130,000, making it one of the more expensive models in BMW’s lineup.
However, for those who can afford it, the M8 Gran Coupe offers a driving experience that’s worth every penny. From its powerful engine to its luxurious interior, every aspect of the M8 Gran Coupe is designed to deliver a superior driving experience. The M8 Gran Coupe is available at BMW dealerships nationwide.
Conclusion
As we reach the end of our exploration of the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe, it’s clear that this vehicle is a remarkable blend of luxury, power, and advanced technology. It’s a testament to BMW’s commitment to creating vehicles that not only meet but exceed the expectations of the modern driver.
Recap of the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe’s Features
The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe boasts an impressive array of features. From its powerful V8 engine to its M xDrive all-wheel drive system, it’s designed for performance. The M8 Gran Coupe also features an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, providing both automatic and manual modes for a customizable driving experience. The car’s exterior design is striking, with a sweeping four-door body and sharp, modern lines. Inside, the M8 Gran Coupe offers a luxurious interior with exclusive appointments, including M Sport seats and a unique extended center console.
Final Thoughts on the M8 Gran Coupe’s Place in the Luxury Sports Car Market
In the realm of luxury sports cars, the 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe holds a prominent position. It successfully combines the elegance and comfort of a premium sedan with the raw power and agility of a sports car. This blend of attributes, coupled with BMW’s renowned engineering and design, makes the M8 Gran Coupe a compelling choice for those seeking a vehicle that delivers both luxury and performance. Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the M8 Gran Coupe promises a driving experience that’s both thrilling and refined.