Overview

Given their restrained exteriors, the 2022 BMW M8 coupe and convertible could be confused for regular 8-series models—but their conservative looks hide ridiculous performance . Although BMW also offers a similarly silky twin-turbo V-8 powertrain on the 523-hp M850i, enthusiasts know the ultimate expression of the company's driving ethos is reserved for full-blown M cars. Every M8 now has Competition credentials that include 617 horsepower, a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system, and chassis components enhanced for racetrack work. Despite vague brake-pedal feel and a heavy nose, the big, muscular Bimmers have moves; imagine Shaquille O'Neal performing ballet. Whether witnessing their wicked acceleration or luxuriating in their luscious interiors (small back seat notwithstanding), the 2022 M8 coupe and convertible are the quickest 8s for the richest customers.

What's New for 2022?

After skipping the 2021 model year in America, the M8 coupe and convertible return for 2022. The big change is that both are now only offered in Competition guise only, which means every version now has 617 horsepower and other equipment that was previously exclusive to the Comp variant. The M8 is also now available with lightweight M Carbon bucket seats as an individual option.

Since the M8 coupe costs considerably less and is better suited for racetrack action, we'd recommend it over the convertible. Both body styles come with a handsome number of standard luxuries, so we'd only select options that help unlock the M8's full performance potential. These include the M Carbon ceramic brakes, which BMW says reduce weight and are built to better withstand track abuse. To ensure owners are best prepared to handle the coupe's brute power, the M Driver's package includes one day of performance driving school. Even better, it raises the top speed limiter from 155 to 189 mph.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The M8 is powered by a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 that makes 617 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. The mighty mill pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system that can disengage power to the front axle. We've spent some time behind the wheel of the coupe and convertible M8 Competition where we marveled at their refined manners and right-now powertrain responses. Once we strapped our test gear to the coupe we were blown away by its ridiculously quick acceleration, reaching 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. Despite an exhaust note that doesn’t quite excite like rivals from Mercedes-AMG, the BMW is blindingly quick, and its automatic is brilliantly perceptive. Although the all-wheel-drive system is intended to provide rear-drive thrills, we found that provoking power slides is best left for the safety of an empty parking lot or a race track. The M8 didn't punish us on regular roads, thanks a compliant ride that belies its track-focused capabilities. However, don't mistake its pleasantness for weakness. The M8 chassis has tremendous levels of grip and telegraphs some feedback to the thick-rimmed steering wheel. The M8's combination of quickness and nimbleness makes it a compelling partner anytime the road opens up or turns twisty. Unfortunately, more than half of the coupe's 4251-pound curb weight is over the front axle, which could contribute to its reluctance to rotate more freely. Likewise, we found the braking system's adjustable pedal feel less-than-engaging.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The M8 coupe and convertible are expected to be equally fuel inefficient in the city and on the highway. That is to say they're all expected to earn 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. While we haven't tested any M8 on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, we'll evaluate its real-world mpg once we have the opportunity to do so. For more information about the M8's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

As with most BMW M cars, the M8's interior design and passenger space are virtually identical to the regular models'. Although the design doesn't strike us as very imaginative, the leather surfaces are beautifully stitched together and the trim pieces are appropriately upscale. Every M8 comes standard with luxurious features that include customizable ambient lighting, a 12.1-inch digital gauge cluster, heated and ventilated front seats, a Nappa leather-covered dashboard, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and wireless charging. Its cabin provides plenty of space for front-seat passengers but makes those banished to the small back seat feel like second-class citizens. Those who want an M8 and need to regularly shuttle more than two people will want to consider the much roomier, four-door M8 Gran Coupe. We managed to fit five carry-on suitcases in the trunk of a regular 8-series coupe, so we expect the M8 to provide the same amount of storage.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Nestled in the middle of the dashboard on every M8 is a 10.25-inch touchscreen that acts as the hub of BMW's iDrive 7.0 infotainment system. The main display is complemented by a rotary controller and physical buttons on the center console. The interface features crisp graphics and quick responses, but some of the menus are heavily packed and require the driver to take their eyes off the road. Still, the system's voice commands worked well, and it can even be optioned with gesture controls. Desirable standard features include Apple CarPlay (but not Android Auto), a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The coupe and convertible are available with myriad driver-assistance technology, which includes options such as self-parking assist and night vision. For more information about the M8's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
• Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology
• Available blind-spot monitoring