Updated 2022 BMW 8 Series range features subtle styling tweaks

A range-wide overhaul for BMW’s 8 Series Coupe, Convertible and four-door Gran Coupe models has been unveiled as part of a mid-life refresh for the brand’s high-end luxury line-up.

Subtle styling tweaks and the addition of more technology and equipment are the key changes, with all 8 Series bodystyles now coming as standard with an M Sports body package.

This includes aerodynamically optimised design features finished in the chosen body colour (of which four new options are available) at the front, rear and on the side skirts, plus a gently redesigned front bumper with larger intakes lower down that are now sectioned off by horizontal struts.

At the rear there’s a new diffuser insert finished in Dark Shadow metallic, while 20-inch M alloy wheels cover an M Sport braking system with blue calipers. As with other high-end models in the German firm’s range, the new 8 Series features illumination for the car’s kidney grille as part of BMW’s “Iconic Glow” package.

The grille also features redesigned U-shaped bars and gets a small M logo on the V8-engined M850i models, while tri-colour stitching on the steering wheel marks out this version’s interior. Adaptive LED headlights with cornering functionality are fitted as standard, while laser lights are offered as an option.

Inside, there’s an enlarged 12.3-inch central infotainment screen running BMW’s latest operating system to go with the digital dash, plus Individual Merino leather is included to boost the 8 Series line-up’s status as BMW’s luxury halo car.

Standard kit in the UK includes BMW’s full keyless go tech, the M Technology Package, heated seats, the brand’s Driving and Parking Assistant, a Harman Kardon stereo, a head-up display, gesture control, adaptive M suspension, a sports exhaust and two-zone climate control. 

Buyers who opt for the M Sport Pro package will benefit from its different 20-inch alloy wheels and larger brakes, Shadowline exterior trim, M seatbelts, plus BMW’s Visibility and Technology Plus packs; the former adds laser lights and the latter more driver assistance tech, plus a Bowers and Wilkins stereo. 

Opt for the Ultimate pack, which adds a whole host of extras, and rear-wheel steering features, but only on 840i models. The fixed-roof cars also feature a carbon fibre roof.

The regular Coupe, Convertible and Gran Coupe bodystyles are each available with a choice of two engines separate from the M8 Competition variant of each. The range starts with the 840i, a 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder petrol model producing 328bhp and 500Nm of torque returning between 31.4mpg and 34.4mpg, and emitting 186g/km to 207g/km of CO2, depending on body style.

Topping the regular 8 Series range is the M850i xDrive powertrain, a 523bhp, 750Nm 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol model that will sprint from 0-62mph in 3.8 seconds in Coupe form. An eight-speed automatic gearbox is standard on all models.

BMW outlined to Auto Express that beyond these two engine choices there are no plans for any further models, which means that the 48-volt mild-hybrid 335bhp 3.0-litre six-cylinder 840d xDrive diesel will not return with this facelifted line-up.

The newly updated 8 Series range is on sale now, priced from £72,225 for the 840i Gran Coupe, with the 840i Coupe coming in at £74,725. The 840i Convertible starts from £81,725. Deliveries begin in March.

What does the facelifted BMW 8 Series have to compete against? Check out our in-depth review of the Bentley Continental GT here...