2023 BMW 8 Series

BMW’s sedans and SUVs regularly earn CR’s recommendations for packing industry-leading comfort and technology into vehicles that are agile, quick, and even fuel efficient. Among luxury brands like Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Lincoln, and Land Rover, BMW’s SUVs often rank near the top of their category. Models like the X5 are remarkable for having powertrains that accelerate quickly while also managing above-average fuel efficiency. Some BMWs can be bought as plug-in hybrids, with useful electric-only range, or in performance trims, with more powerful engines and stiffer suspensions. BMW’s growing roster of EVs also generally rank high in our tests. Like most luxury cars from European manufacturers, BMWs fall on the expensive side of our assessments of maintenance and repair costs, but some specific models are a good option to buy used. However, shoppers considering a preowned BMW should opt for warranties or budget for repairs.

The 8 Series returns as a luxury four-door coupe or convertible. The 8 is a resurrected series that was BMW's flagship coupe in the 1990s, designated as the 840i and 850i. It's meant to compete with other six-figure boutique cruiser-type cars, offering a mix of pampering, high tech, power, and exclusivity. For 2019, the 8 has a turbocharged V8 engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. We found that combo to be super-slick, punchy, and relatively fuel-efficient in the 7 Series we tested. The 8 Series promises a combination of luxury and high tech wrapped in a sporty, stylish silhouette.