2018 BMW 8 Series faces real-world UK test

The new BMW 8 Series will sit at the top of the firm's range and is set to rival the likes of the Bentley Continental GT and Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe when it goes on sale later in the year.

It will be closely related to the 7 Series and is expected to be introduced alongside the X7 and X2 in a bid to claw back sales from arch rival Mercedes-Benz.

Before that, BMW engineers have taken to the challenging roads of Wales to test the new car ahead of its official reveal in June.

Test mules are currently in Wales, with BMW bods concentrating on tweaking the drive and suspension systems of the M850i xDrive Coupe.

Using a redeveloped 4.4-litre petrol V8 engine, the M850i prototype models produce 530PS, while 750Nm of torque is available at 1800rpm. Although performance figures are yet to be confirmed, BMW says it “offers exactly the right balance between performance and emotion”.

While a low centre of gravity and stiff body will help the 8 Series appeal to enthusiastic drivers, electronically controlled dampers contribute towards an adaptability and comfort that BMW is keen to promote. Wider rear wheels also contribute towards a driver-focussed suspension setup.

By testing the new 8 Series on Welsh roads, the manufacturer says it can obtain customer-relevant characteristics in as close to real-world conditions as possible. Orders will open later in 2018 with prices expected to start at around £70,000.