The novel but predictable transformation of the M5 has left many individuals clamoring for the previous-generation mannequin. The “F90” is gone now, changed by a a lot heavier and electrified “G90.” It seems that almost everybody on the Web appears to dislike it. Nonetheless, it’s prudent to attend for journalists and early adopters to share their impressions on how the M5 drives. Solely then can we formulate a extra educated opinion.
However let’s say you’ve already made up your thoughts and may’t fathom the concept of an M5 that weighs 5,390 kilos. Nicely, I’m right here to remind you that the M8 Gran Coupe is a major 910 lbs lighter, tipping the scales at “solely” 4,480 lbs. It avoids cumbersome electrification by counting on the confirmed “S63” engine. This previous twin-turbo, 4.4-liter V8 is progressively being phased out by BMW in favor of the newer “S68.”
In my opinion, it has a extra refined design in comparison with the new M5, and retaining the previous-generation dashboard is a major benefit. The M8 Gran Coupe is from the “previous guard” of BMWs, so it nonetheless presents a good variety of conventional controls. Whereas this may increasingly appear conventional, I choose standard buttons over having to rely virtually totally on a display. Moreover, the digital instrument cluster is neatly built-in into the dashboard, slightly than protruding like a sore thumb.
I perceive that the M8 Gran Coupe can’t straight substitute the previous M5. The “F93” is extra of a grand tourer, making it softer and with an emphasis on luxurious. Nonetheless, should you suppose the brand new M5 is compromised from day one as a result of its plug-in hybrid setup, this swoopy sedan may very well be a extra becoming various.
BMW M8 Gran Coupe Gross sales Aren’t Nice
Judging by gross sales, the M8 Gran Coupe hasn’t gained traction. BMW doesn’t launch separate numbers for M fashions, however the second-generation 8 Collection failed to satisfy expectations. By way of September 2024, deliveries dropped by 7.4% in the US, falling to only 4,058 models. It’s price noting that these figures embody all flavors of the 8er: Coupe, Convertible, Gran Coupe, and their M8 counterparts. So sure, M8 GC gross sales probably aren’t excessive.
Granted, the M8 Gran Coupe is pricey. A base 2025 BMW M5 is $123,275 earlier than choices, whereas an M8 Gran Coupe begins at $140,975. This $17,700 distinction was much more pronounced when the previous M5 was round. Earlier than being discontinued, you would’ve purchased an “F90” for as little as $111,895—although ‘low’ is relative on this section. Nonetheless, there are in all probability some good offers available, contemplating an M8 Gran Coupe doesn’t precisely fly off the cabinets.
There’s nonetheless time. We’re listening to BMW received’t finish manufacturing of the “F93” till October 2025, however the order books are prone to shut a number of months beforehand. Even after that occurs, you need to nonetheless have the ability to discover one in inventory for just a few months, albeit possibly not in your most popular spec. As soon as it’s gone, it’s gone for good. A 3rd-generation mannequin isn’t deliberate, no less than not with combustion engines. There is likely to be a totally electrical 8 Collection Gran Coupe in 2029 on the Neue Klasse platform.
The BMW V8 Sedan Lives, For Now
If you happen to’re open to plug-in hybrids, the V8 sedan nonetheless has a few years forward. The G90 M5 is anticipated to remain in manufacturing till February 2031. BMW M has pledged to maintain the eight-cylinder engine in its lineup till no less than the top of the last decade, so there may be substance to this report. If solely BMW would launch a brand new M550i earlier than it’s discontinued, it could be a welcome addition. Must you need an M sports activities sedan with a bigger V8 that avoids electrification, time is operating out.
We mustn’t ignore the 760i if a V8 BMW sedan with out hybridization is what you’re after. Nonetheless, BMW isn’t promoting it in Europe as a result of stricter emissions laws. It will’ve made sense for the M760e to have a V8 as nicely, even in PHEV guise, however it’s solely obtainable with a six-cylinder mannequin.
Seeing the glass half full, the M8 Gran Coupe’s demise received’t mark the top for M sedans with pure combustion engines. The M3 “G80” is reportedly sticking round till February 2027, when manufacturing is rumored to finish. Higher but, a next-generation mannequin internally codenamed “G84” is supposedly coming in 2027 or 2028 with an inline-six engine.
