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The 8-Series was introduced more than two decades ago. Soon, it will make a comeback by bringing the 2023 BMW M850i trim as well, details are available below.
The coupe and convertible variants of the BMW 8-series lineup combine the best of luxury and excellent proportions. Although both are not as practical or as visually striking as their 4-door counterpart, the 8 Series Gran Coupe, they still make excellent cruisers, especially the high-spec trim of the M850i. Read below what’s offered by the 2023 BMW M850i as the newest model year.
Powertrain and Fuel Economy
The BMW 8-Series is offered with either a 6- or 8-cylinder turbocharged engine, in which both are paired with 8-speed automatic transmission. All variant features an all-wheel-drive system, that means including the M850i, except for the base rear-drive wheel 840i trim.
The 2023 BMW M850i is powered by a 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 engine that generates up to 523 HP and 553 lb-ft of torque. Featuring a more potent powertrain means there has to be at least a slight sacrifice for the fuel economy. The M850i acquires 17/25 mpg highway fuel efficiency ratings from the EPA which is a few figures less than the entry-level 840i that earns 23/30 mpg city/highway.
Albeit less efficient, the V8 engine offers a particularly thrilling exhaust sound that can come off as addictive to the performance vehicle enthusiasts and creates a more thrilling riding experience even though it is not as aggressive as the BMW M8. After all, the M850i bridge the gaps between the GT-natured 840i and the high-performing M8 Competition. As a result, the car provides just enough amount of adaptive suspension and a decent job at presenting a steadridesde despite road imperfections.
Exterior Upgrades
Both the coupe and convertible variants of the 8-Series receive a set of minor updates including mildly updated front fascia with a kidney grille that sports illumination. Both offer a new wheel appearance and five new metallic exterior paints, Frozen Pure Grey, Frozen Tanzanite Blue, Skyscraper Grey, Portimao Blue, and San Remo Green.
Following the more performance-oriented M8, the 2023 BMW M850i brings new aerodynamic side mirrors and an M badge. Now, an M Sport Package is available exclusively for coupe body style which offers a dark-toned grille, brake calipers, and spoiler.
In addition, the buyers of the upcoming M850i can opt for the classic M logo as a replacement for the roundel badges. This offer is made to celebrate the M performance division’s 50th anniversary.
Interior Features, Design, and Driving Assistance
As expected from a luxury grand touring model, the 8-Series as a whole provides a wide range of premium designs and features. Each 8-Series car, which means the 2023 BMW M850i included is equipped with fourteen-way electric-adjustable heated front-row seats, ambient lighting, and automatic soft-close doors. Some lavish options such as higher-end materials and glass control are also available, not to mention the automaker’s options.
Moreover, the M850i provides a 12.3” digital instrumental cluster and a 12.3” touchscreen infotainment display offered as standards. However, some may feel that the instrument panel is highly crowded and not exactly the most intuitive one when it comes to steering-wheel command operations. That being said, there are plenty of control methods to choose including the physical rotary knob.
Some standard features available on the M850i are a wireless hotspot, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and Apple CarPlay connectivity options. It is equipped with a Harman Kardon audio setup, but the system can be upgraded to the Bowers and Wilkins stereo setup.
To mention several standard driving features of the M850i are front cross-traffic warning, blind-spot warning system, and adaptive cruise control. The optional package called Active Driving Assistant Pro offers a lot more features including semi-self-driving.
The 2023 BMW M850i Pricing
As mentioned above, the BMW 850i is the type of car that takes both of the best parts of the 840i with its serenity and the M8 variant with its insane performance. It results in an excellently capable sports car that presents optimized comfort but is also great at the more challenging tracks.
The base trim of the BMW 8-Series alone already sits at the $85,000 – $94,400 range. Complete pricing details are still anticipated to be dropped by the manufacturer with a slight bump. However, it has been announced that the upcoming 8-Series, including the 2023 BMW M850i is entering production for the U.S. market in March 2022 and will be available at the dealership by the end of May 2022.