“To me this was a want car not a need car. It sets me apart from your day to day normal motor vehicle. I appreciate everything in this vehicle from looks, performance and especially overall fit and finish.”
2019 BMW 8 Series: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for 2019 is the return of the BMW 8 Series to the U.S. after a 20-year absence. This all-new generation launches as the V8-powered M850i xDrive Coupe, followed by the Convertible in spring 2019.
About the 2019 BMW 8 Series
2nd generation 8 Series revival (G15 coupe / G14 convertible), first U.S. model year.
BMW positions the 8 Series as its top-tier two-door grand-touring car: a dramatic-looking coupe or convertible that mixes strong straight-line performance, high-speed comfort, and upscale technology. It is not presented as a stripped-down track car; that role is left to the later M8. Instead, the 8 Series is meant to feel special on long trips and everyday drives alike, giving buyers a flagship-style cabin and serious V8 performance in a sleek, low-slung shape.
BMW positions the M850i xDrive as a fast, luxurious long-distance car with standard AWD and advanced handling hardware. Its 523-hp twin-turbo V8 is paired with an eight-speed automatic, while Merino leather, a digital instrument cluster, touchscreen navigation, and Laserlight headlights give the cabin and exterior a modern flagship feel. The Coupe emphasizes sleek grand-touring style, and the Convertible brings the same basic formula with an open roof.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The launch lineup uses a 523-hp twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and AWD.
Styling
The reborn 8 Series introduces an all-new two-door design. The Coupe arrives first, followed by the Convertible in spring 2019.
Safety
Standard driver-assistance features include collision and pedestrian warning with city braking, parking sensors, automated parking help, a system that retraces the car’s recent path in reverse, and surround-view cameras.
Tech
BMW’s new digital cockpit combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, navigation, and the latest iDrive interface. Laserlight LED headlights are also standard.
Structural
A new body structure and chassis underpin the revived 8 Series. The suspension uses a double-wishbone front layout and five-link rear layout, while rear-wheel steering is standard.
2019 BMW 8 Series specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Steptronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 17–18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25–26 mpg |
| Horsepower | 523 hp |
| Torque | 553 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 12.4–14.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 29.5 in |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |
| Alarm System | |
| Automatic High Beams | |
| Blindspot Sensors | |
| Lane Departure Warning | |
| Park Assist | |
| Rear View Camera | |
| 360 Camera | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Smartphone Interface | |
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Heated Steering Wheel | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Push-Button Engine Start | |
| Remote Start | |
| Ventilated Front Seats | |
Frequently asked questions
Why is the 2019 BMW 8 Series a significant model year?
The 2019 model marks the BMW 8 Series’ return to the U.S. after a 20-year absence. It begins an all-new generation rather than updating a model sold here the year before.
Which 2019 BMW 8 Series versions were introduced?
The 2019 lineup launches with the M850i xDrive Coupe, followed by the M850i xDrive Convertible in spring 2019. Both use the same V8, eight-speed automatic transmission, and AWD.
What engine does the 2019 BMW M850i xDrive use?
The 2019 BMW M850i xDrive uses a 523-hp twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD.
What new cabin technology does the 2019 BMW 8 Series have?
The 2019 BMW 8 Series has a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and BMW’s latest iDrive interface. This system is called BMW Live Cockpit Professional.
What driver-assistance features are standard on the 2019 BMW 8 Series?
The 2019 BMW 8 Series has standard collision and pedestrian warning with city braking, parking sensors, automated parking help, a system that retraces the car’s recent path in reverse, and surround-view cameras.
2019 BMW 8 Series Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2019 BMW 8 Series.
4.6
2019 BMW 8 Series
(69 reviews)
“The M850 Xi is an amazing car and should be a must test drive up against the 911 or any car of that class.”
“It is not as enjoyable as I was expecting. The seats are "[Name] the Tuna Seats" Look great but are very uncomfortable! The top takes up so much space in the trunk when down it makes using it with minimum expectations an effort. [I have to carry my golf clubs in the front seat].The tires are so fragile you are constantly concerned they will be damaged and the rims with them.”