In a poignant tribute to its legacy, BMW is unveiling a distinctive Edition M Heritage model, signaling the anticipated conclusion of the 8 Series grand touring coupe's production. This exclusive release, celebrating the iconic design language of the original 8 Series from the 1990s, comes with a carefully curated selection of classic paint finishes, ensuring a memorable farewell for the esteemed vehicle line.
The Edition M Heritage, built upon the M850i xDrive Gran Coupe platform, is a limited offering with only 500 units available. Enthusiasts will appreciate the homage paid to the E31-generation 8 Series, produced between 1990 and 1999, through a vibrant palette of exterior colors including Bright Red, Mauritius Blue, Cosmos Black, Oxford Green, and Daytona Violet. Beyond the striking paintwork, each model boasts a carbon fiber roof adorned with M tri-color stripes and unique 20-inch alloy wheels. The M Sport Professional package, typically an optional upgrade, is standard on this edition, incorporating performance enhancements such as advanced braking systems and sophisticated black exterior accents. The interior features M Sport seats upholstered in luxurious Alcantara and black Merino leather, accented with a diamond stitch pattern. Alcantara extends to the headliner, dashboard, and door panels, complemented by matte carbon fiber trim on the dashboard and signature M tri-color stitching throughout. Distinctive touches include a cupholder cover and doorsill plates engraved with \"M850i Edition M Heritage\" and its individual production number, from 1/500.
Mechanically, the Edition M Heritage retains the formidable powertrain of the standard M850i xDrive Grand Coupe, featuring a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine that delivers 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. This power is seamlessly transferred to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.9 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. BMW emphasizes that the Edition M Heritage arrives fully equipped, leaving no room for additional options; premium features like the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System and the Driving Assistance Professional Package are included as standard. The only decision left to the buyer is the exterior color. This exclusivity contributes to its elevated price point of $131,575, which includes a destination charge, making it approximately $23,000 more expensive than a conventional M850i Gran Coupe. Production is slated to commence in late 2025, with initial deliveries expected in early 2026.
This special edition symbolizes more than just the end of a production run; it embodies BMW's commitment to innovation while honoring its rich heritage. It serves as a reminder that every ending can be a celebration of past achievements and a stepping stone towards future advancements, encouraging us to appreciate the journey and the legacy left behind, always striving for excellence and positive evolution.