Summary
The BMW M8 is the performance-enhanced version of the 8 Series, available as a two-door coupé or convertible and powered by a 617hp twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine. There is also a four-door executive car variant, called the M8 Gran Coupé, but we will have a separate page for this model, coming soon.
The M8 range is limited to one engine/trim choice here in the UK, as only the top-spec M8 Competition is available. While there is not much choice on offer, the M8 has been warmly received by the British motoring media – described by Auto Express as “a deeply effective car that delivers monstrous performance allied to a depth of sophistication that’s hard not to be impressed by.”
Carwow states its enthusiasm for the car’s “great looks”, and calls the M8 Competition “the absolute peak of BMW M engineering”.
Advantages aside, the car comes with a steep price tag. Reviewers question if it is really worth paying £130k for the M8 Competition when the BMW M850i model at the top of the 8 Series range is almost as quick and just as luxurious for £25k less.
As of February 2026, the BMW M8 holds a lowly New Car Expert Rating of E, with a score of 48%. It gets poor scores in every category we currently have data for, especially its running costs. We don’t have reliability data yet, nor safety data (which we’re not likely to ever get, as the M8 is unlikely to be assessed by Euro NCAP).
M8 highlights
- Impressive performance and handling
- Refined and well-built interior
- Attractive exterior styling
- Packed with useful on-board tech
M8 lowlights
- Cramped rear seats
- 911 and DB11 are more engaging on the road
- S-Class Coupé is more comfortable
- Very expensive to buy and own
Key specifications
Body style: Coupé and convertible
Engines: petrol
Price: From £133,020 on-road
Launched: Autumn 2019
Last updated: Spring 2022
Replacement due: TBA
Image gallery
Media reviews
Reviews, road tests and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.
Auto Express
Model reviewed: Competition (2023)
Score: 7 / 10
“The BMW M8 Competition is still an event to drive, but while it has all the potency and technical prowess you’d expect of an M car, it’s lacking in terms of traditional sports car driver engagement. New infotainment upgrades and a smart cabin help it in the luxury grand tourer stakes.”
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Model reviewed: M850i xDrive (2023)
Score: 8 / 10
“BMW’s facelift of the M850i might be minimal, but it’s still a well-rounded grand tourer.”
Read review
Model reviewed: Range review
Score: 7 / 10
“The new BMW M8 is a deeply effective car that delivers monstrous performance allied to a depth of sophistication that’s hard not to be impressed by.”
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Auto Trader
Model reviewed:
Score: 8.4 / 10
“The BMW M8 Competition is the most powerful, fastest and most luxurious car in the range and delivers an incredible driving experience – albeit at a cost.”
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Car
Model reviewed: Competition
Score: 6 / 10
“It may sound like we’re being quite harsh on this car, and we’re not – in isolation, this M6 replacement is a fine fast cruiser that can be fun to drive.”
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Model reviewed: Competition
Score: 6 / 10
“Whizzing in 3.3sec from 0 to 62mph and in 10.8sec from 0-125mph feels and is jolly quick.”
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Carbuyer
Model reviewed:
Score: 7.2 / 10
“The BMW M8 Competition Convertible is a heavyweight grand tourer with a price tag to match.”
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Carwow
Model reviewed:
Score: 7 / 10
“The BMW M8 is supercar quick, easy to drive for long periods and looks great.”
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Evo
Model reviewed:
Score: 7 / 10
“The BMW M8 is comfortable, quick and capable.”
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Parkers
Model reviewed:
Score: 8.8 / 10
“The BMW M8 is a large and luxurious grand tourer, but it’s pricey.”
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The Sunday Times
Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“The BMW M8 is the everyday performance GT.”
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Top Gear
Model reviewed: Competition
Score: 7 / 10
“The M8 is a really grand, grand tourer. It looks and operates as you’d expect of a peak BMW.”
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Safety rating
Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
No safety rating
As of February 2026, the BMW M8 has not been assessed by Euro NCAP. Due to its price and exclusivity, it is unlikely to be tested in the future.
Eco rating
Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP
No eco rating
As of February 2026, the BMW M8 has not been assessed by Green NCAP.
Due to its price and exclusivity, it is unlikely to have its emissions tested in the future.
Reliability rating
Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy
Total claims: 14
Average repair cost: £1087.62
Last updated: April 2025
Reliability score
All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims
As of April 2025 (our most recent data point), the BMW 8 Series family – which includes the M8 – has a poor reliability score of 41%, according to workshop and extended warranty data provided by our partner, MotorEasy.
However, it must be noted that this score is currently based on a relatively small number of vehicle records, so this score may fluctuate more than normal as more data becomes available.
Similar cars
If you’re looking at the BMW M8, you might also be interested in these alternatives
Aston Martin DB11 | Bentley Continental GT | Bentley Continental GT Convertible | Lexus LC | Mercedes-AMG GT | Polestar 1 | Porsche 911
Buy a BMW M8
If you’re looking to buy a BMW M8, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find the right car
Find your next used car with Motors. Find out more
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Lease a BMW M8
If you’re looking to lease a new BMW M8, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find a competitive deal
Personal contract hire deals from Leasing.com. Find out more
Personal contract hire deals from Carparison Leasing. Find out more
Personal contract hire deals from Select Car Leasing. Find out more
