Loved seeing this car at the Rolex a few weeks ago:
Photo from https://twitter.com/ve_haynes21/status/1221156141918556160
BMW revived the 8 Series to an eager audience back in 2018 as a sleek two-door grand tourer. Since then, the series has spawned a convertible and a sedan, all of which can be had in M and non-M versions. We recently got tossed the keys to the $108,900 M850i xDrive Gran Coupe, the sedan option that sits a step below the full blown M8.
On initial impression, the new 850i is a sharp-looking, four-door coupe. While I am still struggling with the idea of a coupe having four doors, luxury car companies have moved to this seemingly nonsensical nomenclature, so I guess we will have to go with it.
Upon closer examination, the 850i is very big on the outside, but surprisingly small on the inside. How small inside? Think less head and shoulder room than an old E30 BMW from the ’80s.
Once you push the starter button (oddly located on the center console), the car does come to life with a viciously, and barely subdued rumble. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, and power is almost effortless. To say that this car is fast is a gross understatement. Out on the highway, the 850i is smooth and fast.
Other than an oddly terrible wind noise from the driver’s door window on our test model, this car was smoother and quieter than any BMW we have driven lately. We can only assume that the driver’s door window or seal was not adjusted correctly.
Considering the mass of this car, the handling was spot-on. Turn in was lightening quick, and the overall springing and damper tuning were among the best of any new BMW we have driven.
While this new BMW is truly stunning, we are not sure who wants or needs a $121,695.00 car that is hard to get in and out of and barely has room for an average family. If you can get over the price, this drivetrain would be much more compelling in a true sedan or even in an X5 SUV. While there certainly things I liked about this car, I would have to conclude for me, it’s a no, dog!
Two words, and I know that Tim used them: smooth and fast. Call this BMW’s salvo against the other four-door coupe from Audi and Benz, and it all makes sense.
And if you’re going to offer a four-door coupe, might as well make it wicked-fast, right?
While too small inside for a family of four, I see this as something for those who might occasionally need a back seat–plus, to be honest, the shape just looks cool.
Why not an M3 or M4 instead? Good question. But this offers a bit more comfort and, while important for some, more curb appeal.
Loved seeing this car at the Rolex a few weeks ago:
Photo from https://twitter.com/ve_haynes21/status/1221156141918556160
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