TESTED 20.3.23, KENT ON SALE NOW
When BMW replaced the 6 Series with the 8 Series in 2018, it aimed to raise the profile of its coupé, cabriolet and four-door coupé trio. But while it proved a strong sporting coupé, it has always felt more like a 5 Series derivative than its name suggests. Just over four years on, the 8 Series has had an update that doesn't look like it will markedly change that.
The interior was always the issue, being impeccable in its quality but too plain and businesslike next to that of the Lexus LC or Porsche 911. That's just as true today, although you might prefer it to the tech-fest that is the new Mercedes-AMG SL.
The lack of major change inside is also a blessing in disguise. The screen is up from 10.25in to 12.3in but, unlike in the updated 3 Series, keeps the old iDrive software, so it's still a paragon of user-friendliness, with logical menus and plenty of shortcut buttons. It still looks modern, too, and physical climate controls are present and correct.
This story is from the March 29, 2023 edition of Autocar UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the March 29, 2023 edition of Autocar UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
MCLAREN ARTURA
A supercar that can do 1285 miles on one tank of fuel? Maybe after the update...
FORD RANGER RAPTOR
Stepping out of a tiny roadster and into the largest car on our fleet
BMW X6
Munich's fastest full-size SUV-coupé gets mid-life powertrain and chassis tweaks
Is Silence golden?
A Spanish firm has used its electric motorbike tech to create a miniature electric car' that we can buy in the UK. Matt Prior has a go
A DRAM WITHOUT DRAMA
The fabulously cultivated W12 engine that revitalised Bentley is retiring, at the same time as a very different type of Bentley arrives. Mark Tisshaw drives a Flying Spur up to Scotland for a first and last taste
BMW iX2
Sportier, more stylish alternative to the underwhelming IX] arrives in the UK
VOLKSWAGEN ID 5
More powerful motors, more efficient battery and improved ergonomics for EV
YANGWANG U8
The maker of the Seal and the Dolphin produces a car that can actually swim
MASERATI GRECALE FOLGORE
Big SUV relinquishes V6 engine as Italian luxury brand initiates electric transition
SKODA SUPERB ESTATE
Fourth-generation load-carrying stalwart sticks with tradition and retains its very conventional estate car form