For many automotive enthusiasts, the mention of the BMW 8 Series evokes a distinct sense of nostalgia and admiration. Imagine if you could instantly recall the cars that defined your earliest automotive passions; for some, the original BMW 8 Series from the 1990s undoubtedly makes that list. It was a revolutionary grand tourer, celebrated for its striking, avant-garde design and the promise of potent performance. Consequently, when whispers of its return began to circulate, expectations within the automotive world soared. The question on everyone’s mind was clear: could the 2019 BMW 8 Series truly live up to the iconic legacy of its predecessor?
The video above provides an initial glimpse into this exciting revival, offering a hands-on review of the new generation. As you will discover, our reviewer, Mark Takahashi, explores whether this modern interpretation successfully captures the essence that made the original a one-hit wonder of its time. This detailed article aims to complement that visual experience, diving deeper into the nuances of the 2019 BMW 8 Series, examining its design, performance, technology, and practicality, all while acknowledging the high benchmark set by its heritage. We will expand upon the initial impressions shared in the video, providing a comprehensive analysis for enthusiasts and potential owners alike.
Reviving a Legend: The 2019 BMW 8 Series Design
The exterior design of the 2019 BMW 8 Series immediately commands attention, showcasing a contemporary interpretation of classic BMW aesthetics. At the front, the familiar twin kidney grilles are proudly displayed, now wider and more assertive, flanked by sleek, swept-back LED headlights. This distinctive face unmistakably identifies the car as a product of the Bavarian marque, yet it possesses a fresh aggression suitable for a flagship coupe. The long, sculpted hood is a definitive power statement, hinting at the robust engine residing beneath, while the purposeful lines along the side maintain a clean and elegant profile.
Moving along the vehicle’s side, one observes a masterclass in coupe styling, characterized by subtle creases that seamlessly blend into the bodywork, creating a sense of fluid motion. A particular design highlight is the aggressive flare that emerges from the roof pillar, providing a dynamic tension that enhances the car’s athletic stance. This combination of understated elegance and muscular presence contributes significantly to the car’s visual appeal. As mentioned in the video, this careful balance of elements suggests that the 2019 BMW 8 Series is destined to be a design that ages gracefully, maintaining its sophisticated charm for years to come, much like its esteemed ancestor.
Exterior Aesthetics: A Nod to Heritage
The original BMW 8 Series from the 1990s was renowned for its pillarless windows and distinct wedge shape, a design language that was revolutionary at the time. The 2019 iteration, while embracing modern aerodynamics and safety standards, still manages to capture some of that distinctive spirit. The long wheelbase and short overhangs create classic sports car proportions, reminiscent of grand touring coupes that prioritize both speed and comfort for long journeys. Furthermore, the selection of premium materials and meticulous panel gaps underline the vehicle’s luxury status, ensuring every angle conveys a message of precision engineering and high-end craftsmanship.
The car’s visual impact is further enhanced by its assertive yet refined character, striking a delicate balance between outright aggression and sophisticated elegance. The design communicates dynamism without resorting to excessive ornamentation, allowing the purity of its lines to speak for themselves. Therefore, whether viewed stationary or in motion, the 2019 BMW 8 Series projects an aura of exclusivity and performance. This careful consideration of design elements ensures that the new 8 Series not only stands out in the crowded luxury segment but also pays appropriate homage to its iconic lineage.
Unleashing Performance: Driving the New BMW 8 Series
Stepping onto the Estoril Circuit in Portugal, the 2019 BMW 8 Series truly comes alive, showcasing its formidable performance capabilities. The vehicle’s standard adaptive dampers, a crucial component for dynamic handling, continuously adjust the suspension’s stiffness based on driving conditions. This allows for a supple ride during cruising and a firm, responsive setup when pushed hard on a track, effectively blurring the lines between a comfortable grand tourer and an agile sports car. Furthermore, the inclusion of rear-wheel steering, also standard, provides an additional layer of agility; at lower speeds, the rear wheels turn opposite to the front for enhanced maneuverability, while at higher speeds, they turn in the same direction, improving stability and confident lane changes.
Our reviewer’s experience on the track, particularly in Sport Plus mode, highlights the car’s engaging driving dynamics. The seamless shifts from the automatic transmission are lightning-fast, complemented by perfect rev-matching, ensuring a smooth and exhilarating power delivery. Imagine if a car could anticipate your every command, providing instantaneous response without a hint of hesitation; this is the sensation delivered by the 2019 BMW 8 Series. The engine’s exhaust note, a deep and resonant growl, adds significantly to the visceral experience, even if partially augmented, proving that sound is an integral part of performance enjoyment. Consequently, reaching speeds over 200 kilometers per hour feels effortless, yet completely controlled.
Track Capability and Driver Engagement
While the 2019 BMW 8 Series might not be a dedicated track car due to its inherent weight, its performance on the Estoril Circuit was undeniably impressive. The braking system, tested at speeds up to 240 kilometers per hour, maintained excellent stopping power without a “wooden” pedal feel, inspiring confidence even under extreme conditions. Moreover, the sophisticated traction and stability control systems are remarkably well-calibrated, permitting a considerable degree of driver involvement before gently intervening. This allows for controlled slides and a playful interaction with the car’s limits, fostering a genuine connection between driver and machine. Therefore, the reviewer noted that only a slight reduction in stability control settings truly unlocked the car’s playful potential, demonstrating its remarkable balance.
The car’s neutral handling characteristics, free from excessive nose-heaviness or tail-happiness, mean it can be precisely pointed with a combination of throttle and brake inputs. This exceptional responsiveness makes it an ideal companion for exhilarating drives on winding roads, much like the picturesque California Highway 1 leading to Big Sur. This combination of high-tech assistance and pure driving enjoyment firmly positions the 2019 BMW 8 Series as a true driver’s car. It doesn’t just transport you; it invites you to participate actively in the journey, making every curve and straightaway an engaging experience that rivals its classic predecessors.
A Cabin of Craftsmanship: Inside the 2019 BMW 8 Series
The interior of the 2019 BMW 8 Series immediately conveys an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury and meticulous craftsmanship, effortlessly meeting the high expectations associated with a flagship BMW. Every surface, from the standard leather-covered dashboard adorned with exquisite stitching to the supple upholstery, speaks volumes about the quality of materials used. The tactile feedback from buttons and controls is consistently satisfying, affirming the premium feel throughout the cabin. Furthermore, the ergonomic layout is exemplary; all essential controls and infotainment features “fall into hand perfectly,” a hallmark of BMW’s driver-centric design philosophy, ensuring intuitive operation without distraction.
One minor yet notable point, as highlighted in the video, pertains to the slightly awkward reach for the seatbelt. While a small detail, the absence of a seatbelt presenter—a feature found in other luxury coupes—is a minor oversight in an otherwise flawlessly appointed cabin. However, once secured, the seatbelts themselves feature subtle yet stylish BMW M stripes, a testament to the brand’s attention to detail and a nod to its performance heritage. This level of intricate detailing elevates the interior beyond mere functionality, transforming it into a truly luxurious environment designed to cosset its occupants.
Innovative Technology and Premium Features
At the heart of the 2019 BMW 8 Series’ technological suite is the very latest iDrive infotainment system, known for its intuitive interface and versatile control options, including a rotary controller, touchscreen, gesture control, and voice commands. This iteration is particularly user-friendly, offering seamless integration of modern conveniences. A significant enhancement for tech-savvy drivers is the wireless Apple CarPlay functionality, which eliminates the need for a physical USB connection, allowing for a cleaner and more streamlined cabin experience. Imagine pulling up your navigation or favorite playlist without fumbling for cables; this is the convenience wireless CarPlay provides.
Adding a distinctive touch of opulence, the 8 Series offers an optional glass crystal shifter, which illuminates with an ‘8’ motif, creating a captivating focal point in the center console. This exquisite detail, along with the jeweled facets on various knobs and buttons, serves as both a conversation piece and a tangible representation of the car’s luxury pedigree. Complementing these aesthetic enhancements are practical features such as a wireless charging pad, conveniently located for easy access, and ample interior storage. The decent-sized center console bin, two cupholders, and moderately sized door pockets collectively ensure that personal effects can be securely stowed, contributing to a clutter-free and refined driving environment throughout journeys, whether short trips around town or extended tours through scenic landscapes like Portugal.
Balancing Act: Practicality in the BMW 8 Series
While the allure of a luxury sport coupe primarily revolves around performance and style, the aspect of practicality cannot be entirely overlooked. The 2019 BMW 8 Series, by its very nature, makes certain compromises in favor of its sleek design and dynamic capabilities. The most significant of these is the rear-seat comfort, or rather, the distinct lack thereof. Our 5’10” reviewer explicitly noted the severe constraints, with his head bumping against the headliner and knees pressing firmly into the back of the front seat, even with the front seat adjusted forward slightly. Imagine attempting a long journey with adult passengers in the back; it would be an uncomfortable experience, to say the least. This highlights that while technically a four-seater, the rear accommodations are best reserved for very short trips, small children, or perhaps extra luggage.
However, it is crucial to temper these observations with the understanding that this is a sport coupe, a vehicle segment not traditionally celebrated for its expansive rear passenger volume. Its design ethos prioritizes the driver and front passenger experience, emphasizing a sleek roofline and aggressive styling over voluminous rear headspace. Consequently, while the rear seating might be a deal-breaker for those requiring regular passenger transport, it is an expected trade-off for the car’s striking profile. Therefore, prospective buyers should carefully consider their specific needs regarding passenger space, recognizing that the 8 Series is designed more for exhilarating solo or dual adventures.
Cargo Versatility for Grand Touring
Despite its perceived impracticality, the 2019 BMW 8 Series surprises with a respectable amount of cargo space, proving to be more versatile than many might anticipate. The trunk offers almost 15 cubic feet of storage, a figure that is quite generous for a luxury coupe and certainly ample for a weekend getaway. To put this into perspective, imagine packing two standard carry-on suitcases, a duffel bag, and perhaps a small cooler; all would fit comfortably within this space. This capacity easily accommodates luggage for two individuals embarking on a several-day trip, making the 8 Series a legitimate contender for grand touring.
Adding to its utility, the rear seats are designed to fold flat, significantly expanding the available cargo volume. This feature transforms the trunk into a more flexible storage area, capable of accommodating longer items that wouldn’t fit otherwise. For instance, imagine needing to transport a golf bag or even a small set of skis; the fold-flat seats make such tasks entirely feasible. Thus, while the 2019 BMW 8 Series might fall short in rear passenger comfort, it compensates with practical cargo solutions, ensuring that its elegant form factor doesn’t completely sacrifice the functional demands of a luxury cruiser designed for adventurous spirits.
Your 8 Series Questions: Comparing Cool Across Decades
What is the 2019 BMW 8 Series?
The 2019 BMW 8 Series is a new luxury sports coupe, designed as a modern revival of the iconic grand tourer from the 1990s.
How does the 2019 BMW 8 Series look on the outside?
It features a contemporary design with wider twin kidney grilles, sleek LED headlights, and a long, sculpted hood. Its profile maintains classic sports car proportions, blending elegance with an athletic stance.
How does the 2019 BMW 8 Series perform when driven?
The car offers formidable performance with adaptive dampers and standard rear-wheel steering for agile handling. It provides fast, smooth shifts and an engaging driving experience, suitable for both comfortable cruising and spirited track use.
What is the interior of the 2019 BMW 8 Series like?
The cabin exudes luxury with premium leather, meticulous craftsmanship, and an ergonomic layout. It features the latest iDrive infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay, and optional high-end details like a glass crystal shifter.