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Germany - BMW's new 8 Series Coupe, in the final stage of the series production process, is set to go on sale later in 2018, the key focus being the M850i xDrive Coupe.
The 8 Series Coupe will go on sale during the course of 2018.
Redefined and powerful
It uses a completely redeveloped V8 engine, four-wheel drive technology, an active rear axle differential lock, adaptive M suspension Professional with active roll stabilisation and Integral Active Steering.
The eight-cylinder power unit, whist having the same weight as its predecessor engine, improves power by 50kW to 390kW. Maximum torque has increased by 100Nm to 750Nm and is available from 1 800rpm.
Gallery: 2018 BMW 8 Series
The eight-cylinder engine delivers its power to an extensively further developed 8-speed Steptronic sport transmission characterised by expanded spread and further shortened shift times.
Likewise, the function of the electronically controlled dampers, the stability control system DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) and the four-wheel drive system are precisely oriented to the selected driving mode.
Image: Newspress
The rear wheel-focused setup of the new xDrive system is perceptible in every driving mode, whilst particularly ambitious drivers benefit from the active differential lock in the rear axle transmission, which provides for maximum traction when accelerating out of bends.
A low centre of gravity and high stiffness values for body and suspension form the basis for the 8 Series Coupe’s highly dynamic handling characteristics.
WATCH: BMW's new 8 Series Coupe track testing in Italy
In the case of the M850i, both agility and direct steering behaviour are additionally assisted by standard Integral Active Steering and active roll stability.
Made for street and track
Jos Van As, head of BMW Suspension, said: "The new 8 Series will be available exclusively with mixed tyres. This gave us the possibility when coordinating the suspension control systems to exploit the potential of the wide rear wheels to attain particularly sporty handling characteristics.
"Also, the higher camber values on all wheels and specifically tuned elastokinematics result in the realisation of exceptionally high cornering speeds prior to the intervention of the electronics. So those who wish can drive on the racing track with active DSC, too."
Image: Newspress
