When a BMW model features the number 8, it’s guaranteed to deliver all the exhilarating driving dynamics you could wish for. The all-new 8 Series is another fine example of that theory. Available in coupe, convertible or saloon body styles and with the choice of petrol or diesel engines, this flagship model oozes class throughout.

The good

Styling, handling and economy

The bad

Cost with extras factored in

Tech Specs

Price from

£69,340

Combined Fuel up to

46.3mpg

0-62 from

3.2 seconds

max speed up to

155mph

co2 from

160g/km

Test Drive

BMW 840d xDrive Coupe (2020)

When BMW throws the number eight into the mix during the naming process of one of its models you just know it’s going to be a little bit unique and the old Z8 and current i8 are testament to that theory.

So, when the new 8 Series was launched it had a whole lot of sporting heritage to live up to and it does just that.

Customers can choose from coupe, convertible or saloon body styles, but whatever the choice this elegant flagship model oozes quality and is guaranteed to put a smile on any driving purist’s face.

We opted for the two-door coupe model powered by a punchy, yet relatively frugal 3.0-litre, six-cylinder diesel engine delivering 320PS of power and a whopping 680Nm of torque.

Approach from any angle and the low-slung, 840d Coupe looks spectacular thanks to its muscular stance, super-slim laser lights, long bonnet, twin trapezoidal exhausts, BMW’s iconic kidney shape grille, 20-inch alloys and blue brake calipers.

Step inside and it’s pure sophistication and quality through and through with a driver-orientated centre console and new multifunction leather sports seats that are power-operated with memory settings. There is a wealth of on-board technology to explore via BMW’s excellent iDrive system, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system, sat nav, full smartphone connectivity and a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster with a map as its focal point.

Our car had a starting cost of £75,155, which is competitively priced to take on rivals such as the Mercedes S Class, but as is the way with premium car makers, the list of optional extras soon sees the costs rise. The test model boasted the likes of an M Sport Technic Package that introduced lots of M focused kit, those optional laser lights, a Technology Package, a Premium Package that added soft close doors and a number of other extras – the result was a final price-tag of £90,085.

But when it comes to performance and handling, the BMW 840d drives as good as it looks and it looks awesome. The official 0-62mph sprint time is 4.9 seconds, but it feels much faster as you sit quite close to the ground. The top speed is limited to 155mph and, according to official figures, this car can deliver combined fuel economy of 40.4mpg with carbon emissions of 185g/km.

Out on the winding country lanes, the road holding is ultra-grippy and the car features BMW’s all-wheel drive xDrive system for added grip in more adverse driving conditions. It’s beautifully balanced and poised at all times meaning it can be driven confidently into sharp bends and the perfectly weighted steering is an absolute delight offering ample feedback.

The acceleration through the eight-speed automatic gearbox is both smooth and responsive and there are paddles for added driver fun along with drive modes that alter the characteristics of the car.

On fast moving motorways, the 840d cruises effortlessly at national speed limits with barely a sound from the engine or road surface filtering through into the luxurious cabin surroundings. And the highly efficient suspension system does a valid job of smoothing out the bumps and dips along the way.

It’s also agile enough to weave through busy city centre traffic although you will need to seek out a decent sized parking space as this Beamer measures more than 4.8 metres in length. The visibility is generally good thanks to the very long side windows, but the view through the typically coupe-styled narrow rear screen isn’t the best.

And also like most coupe models, back seat passengers will soon find the limited leg room unbearable while those up front have oodles of space to stretch out.

When it comes to storage, the boot can accommodate 420 litres of kit and there are many convenient compartments scattered throughout the car, such as a lockable glovebox, a deep central cubby box, practical cup holders, door pockets and some handy trays.

All in all, when you factor in the extensive list of top class safety kit and driver assist aids built into this model, the BMW 840d has quite a unique appeal. After all, few rivals can offer the combination of breath-taking styling, awesome driving dynamics and economical running costs all in one package.

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