2020 BMW 8 Series Review

The 2020 BMW 840i fills in the lower end of the revived 8 Series lineup, which debuted last year with the high-performance, V8-powered M850i model.

Like the M850i, the 840i is available as a two-door coupe or convertible. Both offer a gentler entry into 8 Series ownership with a turbocharged six-cylinder engine (335 horsepower, 368 lb-ft of torque) and a sub-six-figure price.

BMW says the 840i will dash from 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, while the all-wheel-drive 840i xDrive shaves a few tenths from that at 4.4 seconds. Convertible models basically split the difference.

The inline-six engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission that can network with the navigation system to anticipate traffic and road conditions, such as downshifting when approaching an intersection or holding gears through a twisty section of road.

Both models come with an adaptive suspension and an electronically locking rear differential. All-wheel-drive models send all engine torque to the rear wheels when all-wheel traction isn't needed, preserving BMW's classic big-coupe, rear-wheel-drive feel.

Standard interior features include a Harman Kardon surround-sound system, wireless device charging and BMW's Live Cockpit, which combines a 12-inch customizable gauge cluster behind the steering wheel with a 10-inch touchscreen center console display. BMW's iDrive controller is still present and offers haptic feedback when selecting functions and commands, while driver aids include front collision warning and automatic emergency braking.

There are, of course, plenty of options to further empty your wallet and thus negate the 840i's lower price of entry. Music aficionados can opt for the 12-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system upgrade, while handling enthusiasts may enjoy rear-wheel steering for making tighter lines through winding roads. Harried commuters will appreciate stop-and-go adaptive cruise control and the Traffic Jam Assistant, which adds active steering for a semi-automated driving experience.

Buyers opting for the convertible models may consider optional neck warmers, which should go to work within the 15 seconds it takes the fabric soft top to raise or lower.

The 8 Series' diminutive rear seat is more conceptual exercise than anything useful, so it's a bit less of a competitor to large luxury coupes such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe. Instead, the 8 Series acts more as an alternative to several sporty luxury coupes.

Now that the price starts under $100,000, the 8 Series matches more directly with starting prices for the Porsche 911. Pricewise, the 2020 840i also stacks up against the Lexus LC 500 and mid- to higher-trim Jaguar F-Type models. Dollar for dollar, all give you a little more engine, but the 8 Series offers a bit more day-to-day usability.