2019 BMW M850i – Video Review

A pinnacle of BMW styling, power, and technology. Truly worthy to wear the 8 Series badge.

While it has come a long way since its very first introduction in 1989, the BMW M850i remains one of those cars made only for the affluent. It is smaller in length than the 7 series and even the 6 series. However, the 8-series BMW styling can only be directly compared with the Gran Coupe. Sculpting in the double-bubble style racing roof, with a gaping air intake in the frontend and subtle swivels in the hood, the BMW M850i provides a design unlike any other in the BMW line-up.

In terms of performance, the M850i has shed the V12 -engine option from 1989 and replaced it with its twin-turbocharged and intercooled dual overhead cam 32-valve V-8 engine. This is propelling the driver to 100km/h from a standstill in 3.7 seconds thanks to its launch-control program, 523 horsepower, and 553 lb-ft of torque. Controlling that power the M850i series is the equipped adaptive steering control, and awd control. The technology seamlessly displaces power to each of the four wheels as needed in order to maintain control through corners, and launch off a standstill. During testing, this car experienced less than ideal weather conditions, and surprisingly, the M850i felt solid on every type of puddle, corner, and bump. To top it off, the counterbalanced wheels with 245/35R-20s up front and 275/30R-20s out back improves its handling.

The BMW M850i starts at $124 000, but given all the optional packages including executive package which includes a crystal gear shift, professional driver assistance, and optional carbon-fiber roof the price quickly climbs to $136 860. Buyers are going to have to consider spending the extra dollars to climb from a 6 series to 8 series for more-or-less prestige status. In any regard, the BMW M850i was a pleasure to drive, for a more in-depth analysis, please check out our video review:

Key Features:

  • Starts at $124 000
  • Engine: twin-turbocharged and inter-cooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block, and heads, direct fuel injection producing 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft
  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting mode
  • Dimensions: Wheelbase: 111.1 inches / Length: 191.2 inches / Width: 74.9 inches / Height: 53.0 inches / Trunk volume: 12 cubic ft / Curb weight: 4643 lb
  • Fuel consumption (combined): 11.5L/100km
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