2026 BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe

2026 BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe Review
Pros
- Smooth and powerful engines
- Nimble handling for its size
- Surprisingly usable cargo space
- Luxurious and comfortable interior
Cons
- Low roofline compromises rear headroom, ease of entry and visibility
- Infotainment system takes some time to learn
What's new
- No significant changes for 2026
- Part of the first 8 Series Gran Coupe generation introduced for 2020
Overview
The 8 Series Gran Coupe is a sleek sedan with coupe-like styling. It is part of the 8 Series lineup that includes a traditional two-door coupe and convertible we review separately. The Gran Coupe is a more attractive alternative to conventional sedans like the 5 Series and 7 Series. But its low-slung design comes at a price, with rear seat headroom compromised due to the sloping roofline that gives the Gran Coupe its namesake look. As with the coupe and convertible models, the Gran Coupe backs up its sporty appearance with sharp handling and robust power.
Edmunds spotlight: 8 Series Gran Coupe, 5 Series or 7 Series?
Unlike most BMW sedans, the 8 Series Gran Coupe hasn't been redesigned or significantly updated since its 2020 release and is showing its age. The 5 Series was redesigned for 2024 and offers a more modern interior design and updated technology. It's significantly more affordable and is about the same length, offers a similar amount of passenger space, and has a larger trunk than the Gran Coupe. The 7 Series, which was redesigned for 2023, is also a more modern sedan. It's significantly larger and comes better equipped, but it doesn't cost much more. However, the 5 Series and 7 Series don't have the sleek styling and engaging driving dynamics of the Gran Coupe. If that's what you prefer, don't hesitate to buy one.
Competitors to consider
The 8 Series Gran Coupe has competitors from all major German luxury brands. The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT sedan is pricier but doesn't have any advantages beyond a snazzier interior. The Audi S7 is more affordable and more powerful. It also boasts an expansive cargo area. As with most Porsches, the Panamera is the most expensive of this group, but its 2024 redesign makes it the newest competitor. The Panamera also offers the most driving enjoyment and a few plug-in hybrid models. For a detailed review of the 8 Series Gran Coupe, check out our test team's Expert Rating below.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our Verdict
The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.Performance
Around turns, the 8 Series Gran Coupe is stable yet deceivingly quick. There's heaps of traction and you don't have to tiptoe around it either. Just mash it and go. The steering effort is light, and the 840i is easy to maneuver around town. The steering doesn't provide much feedback, but it's accurate and complements the accessible handling capabilities of this car. This is a well-sorted luxury sedan.
Comfort
The cabin is well insulated against wind and tire noise. You'll hear the six-cylinder when you rev it out. Unfortunately, it doesn't sound as sweet as the M850i's V8. The climate controls aren't very intuitive to use, and the air conditioning lacks the cooling power we'd want for really hot days. The optional seat ventilation is also pretty weak.
Interior
The lower roofline is a bit of a hassle when it comes to getting in and out of the car, particularly the back. It also slightly impedes rear visibility. But if you spring for the Driver Assistance package, the 360-degree camera system and parking sensors eliminate any need to guess.
BMW's iDrive isn't the most intuitive to learn, but once you've become acquainted, it works well and doesn't distract you from the road. The use of a dial controller and touchscreen provides good redundant control, unlike Audi and Porsche, which have gone full touchscreen.
Technology
Storage
In-cabin storage is a bit lacking, but the available areas including the center armrest and glovebox are usefully sized. If car seats are a part of your life, rest assured that the Gran Coupe has you covered. It has an abundance of backseat space and easy-to-access car seat anchors.
Fuel Economy
Value
BMW's warranty and ownership perks are better than most, too. The basic and powertrain warranties align with other German makes at four years/50,000 miles, with a generous 12-year rust-through warranty and roadside assistance for four years. BMW is also the only one in this class that offers complimentary maintenance for three years/36,000 miles.
Wildcard
Which 8 Series Gran Coupe does Edmunds recommend?




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