We have already seen the new BMW 8 Series Convertible in a few colors, even in Krypton Green Matte. Now, courtesy of BMW South Africa we have the new 8 Series Convertible in Sonic Speed Blue. The vehicle shown here is a BMW M850i xDrive carrying the 20-inch 728 M Bicolor light-alloy wheels. The colored accents in Cerium Gray point connoisseurs to the M performance roots of the M850i and visually distinguish the current top model of the 8 series from the weaker variants.
In the US, at launch time, the new 8 Series Convertible will initially only be available in the M850i xDrive variant, powered by a 4.4-liter V-8 making 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. BMW says that’s enough to launch from 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. That 0-60 time is 0.2 second slower than the coupe. In Germany, prices for the open M850i start at 133,700 euros, so the V8 sportsman is about 25,000 euros more expensive than a 840d convertible.
Without the roof, the 8 Series Convertible is low, sleek and muscular looking. With the roof up, it looks calm and sophisticated. The soft top roof itself is insulated with multiple layers of fabric that are designed to keep noise and temperature out while its up. But when the elements change, that roof can be stowed or risen in just 15 seconds, at speeds up to 30 mph. With the roof down, a wind deflector can be placed behind the front seats and stowed in the trunk when not in use.
Climbing behind the wheel is quite a treat; the convertible welcomes you with a premium cabin which inherits almost of all its elements from the coupe. The tech also comes from the coupe-brother, so you’re getting the same dual 12.3 inch screens, paired with the Glass Application in the M850i, and an M Sports steering wheel.
Pricing for the new BMW 8 Series Convertible in South Africa starts from R1,994,300.
