BMW Malaysia has just unveiled the latest high-performance models to augment their Malaysian BMW M line-up, the M8, in Coupe and Gran Coupe flavours.

The fully imported M8 models will set you back for a cool RM 1,452,960.88 for the Coupe and RM 1,455,145.25 for the Gran Coupe (both with SST discount, valid until 31 December 2020). These are on-the-road prices without insurance.

Performance

The M8 is powered by a 4.4-litre, twin-turbo V8 churning out 600 PS and 750 Nm. The power unit teams up with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic.

Drive is channelled to the road via the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. 0-100 km/h is dispatched in 3.3 seconds for both models, and top speed is 250 km/h (limited).

The M xDrive system is the same one seen in the F90 M5, which means it's biased to the rear wheels with fully-variable torque split. It can also be switched to rear-wheel drive mode on demand, if tail-out action is your thing.

True to BMW M tradition, the rear differential is an Active M differential, which ensures power gets transferred onto the tarmac effectively.

Exterior

On the exterior, the two models feature M-specific front apron, along with decorative mesh, double slats and M8 designation on the BMW kidney grille.

BMW Laserlights with high-beam assistant are also standard across the range.

Exterior mirrors also get the M twin-stalk design. Towards the rear, both models sport the M rear spoiler, as well as M-specific rear diffuser and M Sport exhaust system with twin tailpipes and chrome trims.

Other highlights include the carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) that saves weight and lowers the vehicles’ centre of gravity. Both models also get 20-inch M light alloy wheels in double-spoke style 810 M Bicolour with staggered tyres, wrapped around M compound brakes.

Interior

Moving to the interior, you get leather upholstery swathing large parts of the interior. The seats are finished in Merino leather and the front seats are electrically adjustable with memory function. 

Onto the cockpit itself, BMW Live Cockpit Professional features a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, and a 10.25-inch Control Display and a full-colour Head-Up Display with additional M-specific displays.

It can be operated via voice control, the iDrive Touch Controller with its rotary/push button, touchscreen or the Gesture Control system.

The M Mode selector button on the centre console enables direct access to the settings for the engine, dampers, steering, M xDrive and braking system so they can be tailored to personal preferences. The sound level of the M Sport exhaust can also be tailored via the Sound Control button next to the gear selector lever. 

As befitting a car of this price, both models get a full suite of ADAS which includes ACC with stop/go function, Driving Assistant Professional, Parking Assistant Plus, Lane Keeping Assistant with side collision protection, Lane Change Assistant, Crossing-traffic Warning and Reversing Assistant.

Colours

There are 7 colours available for both models, Alpine White, Brands Hatch Grey, Marina Bay Blue, Motegi Red, Black Sapphire, Donington Grey and Barcelona Blue. Both interiors will be furnished with the Merino Leather offering in either Black or Silverstone.