BMW Malaysia has launched two high-performance sports coupes: the BMW M8 Coupe and M8 Gran Coupe. The two models have finally made it to Malaysian shores one year after they were debuted in Portugal.
Though the M8 Coupe and M8 Gran Coupe share many similarities, the former is a two-door vehicle while the latter has four-doors and is longer by 9″.
Pricing and availability
According to BMW, the two models are now available at all authorised BMW dealerships nationwide. The official Malaysian pricing (on-the-road without insurance) for the two coupes are as follows:
BMW M8 Coupe – RM1,452,960.88
BMW M8 Gran Coupe – RM1,455,145.25
They come with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty with a free scheduled service programme. With BMW’s Balloon Financing Plan, the M8 Coupe and M8 Gran Coupe can be owned with a monthly instalment plan starting from RM16,578 and RM16,598 respectively (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a five-year tenure).
With BMW Individual tailoring, owners are also able to personalise their M8 Coupe and M8 Gran Coupe. During the launch, BMW showcased an exclusive M8 Coupe with a BMW Individual Frozen Bluestone exterior that costs an extra RM30,000.
Customers are able to book the new BMW M models on BMW’s website at RM5,000 and be in the running to bring home a new BMW i8 Coupe.
Features and specs
Both M8 models are powered by an S63 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, claimed to be BMW’s most powerful engine ever. It is said to produce 600 hp and 750Nm of torque between 1,800 rpm and 5,600 rpm.
The engine is mated to an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission that delivers power to all four wheels via an M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This allows the car to split torque between the front and rear wheels to suit different driving conditions.
Standard distribution is 4WD with a rear bias and there is also a 4WD Sport mode that delivers more torque to the rear wheels. In addition, drivers have the choice to deliver full torque to the rear wheels alone in 2WD mode.
They are also able to configure the car’s powertrain, suspension and steering system between ‘Comfort’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport+’ modes.
So just how fast can the new M8 models go? BMW said they are both able to complete the century sprint in just 3.3 seconds. It has an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h though you can take it further up to 305km/h with the optional M Driver’s Package.
On the outside, both the M8 Coupe and M8 Gran Coupe carry many M-specific design elements from twin-spar door mirrors, flared aluminium wings with M gills, an M rear spoiler, rear diffuser, exhaust system with twin tailpipes and chrome trims. The cars also feature large 20″ Double-spoke style 810M Bicolour light-allow wheels.
In front, the two M8 Coupes feature an aggressive front bumper that is flanked by a kidney grille with double slant inserts. This is complemented by BMW’s Laserlight system.
Another notable highlight of the two cars also is the inclusion of a carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof that reduces the overall weight of the car. Inside, the cars come standard with full Merino leather upholstery as well as M Sport seats. There is also a full-leather dashboard and trim panels.
Completing the sporty look is a red starter button and a new electronic gear lever that is embossed along with M-coloured stitching. Apart from that, you get the BMW Live Cockpit Professional system that comprises of a 12.3″ digital instrument cluster and a 10.25″ touchscreen display. There is also a full-colour Heads-up Display.
Both vehicles can be operated using the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant’s voice control system. The M8 is equipped with a full range of safety features that include Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, Lane Keeping Assistant, Lane Change Assistant, Crossing-traffic Warning and Reversing Assistant.
Other highlights include the Digital key, that allow you to unlock and start the car with a compatible Samsung smartphone.
Finally, the two M8 Coupe models are available in seven colours: Alpine White, Brands Hatch Grey, Marina Bay Blue, Motegi Red, Black Sapphire, Donington Grey and Barcelona Blue.
To find out more about the BMW M8 Coupe and M8 Gran Coupe visit their respective product pages on BMW’s website.