BMW 8 Series vs Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The BMW 8 Series is the third element of BMW’s flagship trinity. Just as the 7 Series is the top sedan in BMW’s lineup, and the X7 is the top SUV, the 8 Series lords over lesser coupes and convertibles in the BMW hierarchy.

The 8 Series nameplate dates back to 1990, when BMW launched the first generation in the form of a wedge-shaped coupe with pop-up headlights. After that version—known as the E31—went out of production, the 8 Series took a long hiatus, returning in its current G15 form for the 2019 model year.

The 2023 BMW 8 Series gets some small updates for the new model year, including exterior styling tweaks and an enlarged touchscreen. More paint colour and wheel design options round out what’s new.

In Canada, available variants include the M850i xDrive with standard all-wheel drive (AWD), and high-performance M8 Competition in coupe, convertible, and four-door Gran Coupé body styles. An Alpina B8 version of the Gran Coupé (launched for the 2021 model year) also returns. The vehicle shown is a U.S. specification 840i Gran Coupé; note this powertrain is not offered in Canada.