SPYSHOTS: BMW 8 Series Convertible hits the 'Ring

The forthcoming soft-top version of BMW’s flagship two-door, the 8 Series, has been spotted doing the rounds again at the perennial European proving ground for performance testing, the Nurburgring in Germany. Previously seen by our spy photographers whilst testing on-road, here we get another look at the upcoming open-top model.

The example seen here, like the ones previously spotted, is also all but fully uncovered save for the obvious BMW roundel badges, bootlid upper and rear quarter panels. This example is also likely to be the M850i variant, as suggested by the dark blue brake calipers front and rear, complemented by darkened kidney grilles as well as M Sport bumpers at each end.

As with the fixed-roof 8 Series, six- and eight-cylinder powertrain combinations will feature in the 8 Series Convertible, with the likely M850i variant pictured here powered by the firm’s 4.4 litre biturbo petrol V8 which outputs 530 hp and 750 Nm of torque, channeled to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, likely also to include an electronic differential lock.

This will be complemented by the 3.0 litre, twin-turbocharged diesel 840d, which produces 320 hp at 4,400 rpm and 680 Nm from 1,780 to 2,250 rpm in the coupe, and will also be paired to an eight-speed automatic and xDrive all-wheel-drive. As with the coupe, active anti-roll bars could be optional here as well.

The full suite of driver aids and connectivity equipment from the coupe should feature here in the convertible as well, namely Driving Assistant Professional, Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection, Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking to name but a few on the active safety front.

Digital connectivity via BMW Connected is expected as well, most likely featuring Open Mobility Cloud for mobile device connection with the car, the NFC-enabled Digital Key, Remote Software Upgrade and more. Given its minimal state of camouflage, this combination of a full electronics convenience suite with open-air conveyance should be not far from its debut; fancy one?

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