The BMW 8 Series Convertible was born for 2019, the first convertible and the second generation of the 8 Series after nearly 20 years in hibernation. But for 2020, the offering has expanded and now includes three derivatives - a rear-wheel-drive 840i with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six developing 335 horsepower, an all-wheel-drive version of the same dubbed the 840i xDrive, and a semi-M AWD monster called the M850i - pushed along by a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 with 523 hp on tap.
As the range-topper of BMW’s convertible lineup, all models are highly equipped. From the 840i you’ll find 14-way heated power-adjustable sports seats upholstered in Vernasca leather - upgraded to Merino leather on the M850i - a heated steering wheel, heated front armrests, and dual-zone climate control. It rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and lights the way with full-LED adaptive headlights while boasting amenities like a head-up display, 12.3-inch digital instrumentation cluster, soft-close doors, Harman Kardon audio, and the latest iDrive 7 software on a 10.25-inch infotainment display. The 840i xDrive adds an extra driven axle and rear-wheel steering, both of which are carried over to the M850i xDrive. The range-topper gets more power, a throatier soundtrack, and aggressive styling courtesy of the standard M Sport kit. Adaptive M suspension handles corners better, aided by the M Sport differential and M Sport brakes. It rides on 20-inch alloy wheels, and occupants get an extra layer of comfort with ventilated multi-function seats. Regardless of trim, though, all receive a power-folding soft-top roof for a good old-fashioned wind in your hair experience.