BMW is set to discontinue production of the M8 coupe, with plans for phase-out commencing in early 2025. While the automaker has not officially cited a reason for this decision, dealers have been informed that no further orders will be accepted, paving the way for the final assembly of remaining units before the coupe is retired from the lineup.
This halt in production exclusively affects the M8 coupe, raising questions about the future of other coupe variants in the 8 Series, specifically the 840i and M850i xDrive models. However, it appears that the two-door convertible and four-door Gran Coupe are expected to remain in production beyond the 2025 model year.
### The M8 Coupe: A Distinctive Performance Benchmark
The M8 has been synonymous with high-performance luxury, especially in its Competition guise, which has come to be the only available version. Equipped with a formidable twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine, the M8 Competition delivers an impressive 617 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, distributed through an eight-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. Despite its heft, surpassing two tons, the coupe offers a thrilling driving experience.
In its segment, the M8 coupe occupies a unique position. The landscape of German all-wheel-drive performance two-doors is limited. The Mercedes AMG GT has transitioned towards electrification, while the Porsche 911 Turbo S opts for a different engine configuration with fewer cylinders. Jaguar has withdrawn from the market entirely, and the Lexus LC 500 leans towards a more leisurely driving experience.
### Sales Figures: Esoteric Insights
Understanding the popularity of the M8 coupe in 2024 proves challenging. BMW aggregates sales figures across models without specifying the breakdown by body style. However, their Q3 2024 report indicated that a mere 4,058 units were sold of the entire 8 Series lineup up to September. Historically, such discontinuations often correlate with underwhelming sales performance.
As a point of reference, rivals like Porsche had already sold more 911s by mid-2024, highlighting the waning demand for the M8. Pricing does not seem to deter Porsche enthusiasts, who customarily configure Turbo S models exceeding $300,000, while the 2025 M8 coupe starts at $140,975.
### Conclusion: A Fond Farewell
The 2025 BMW M8 Gran Coupe, priced slightly higher at $142,175, offers enhanced practicality, positioning it as a compelling alternative to the two-door coupe. The convertible variant commands an additional $10,000.
As the M8 coupe prepares to exit the stage, it is a bittersweet moment for sports car aficionados. While its departure reflects the changing tides in consumer preferences, the M8’s legacy endures in other forms, at least for now.
Source:www.autoblog.com
