BMW previews 600-hp M8

G'day, M8.

BMW is moving full-speed ahead as it expands the 8 Series family. We've seen the coupe model already, and we'll get our first in-the-metal look at the convertible variant at the upcoming 2018 Los Angeles auto show. In the meantime, the Munich-based firm has released preliminary information about the range-topping M8.

Power for the M8 comes from an evolution of the standard 8's twin-turbocharged, 4.4-liter V8 engine. In this application, it delivers 600 horsepower to the four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission and the same xDrive all-wheel drive system found in the latest M5. That means the M8 is all-wheel drive in its standard configuration and, at the flick of a switch, rear-wheel drive when the driver wants it to be.

BMW M promises it went to great lengths to make the M8 lighter and more rigid than the 8 Series. Modifications made to the steering, braking, and suspension systems ensure the flagship M car handles as well as it accelerates, both on and off the track.

The prototype depicted in BMW's images is fully camouflaged, but we can tell it gets an M-specific body kit that adds larger air intakes chiseled into the front bumper, a spoiler on the trunk lid, and a new rear bumper. 19-inch light alloy wheels will come standard and 20-inch units will be available at an extra cost.

The 2020 BMW M8 will make its debut in the coming months, and it will go on sale all around the world in 2019. BMW has confirmed plans put the M8 emblem on the convertible variant of the 8 Series, and on the four-door Gran Coupe model that hasn't been revealed yet. When all is said and done, the 8 Series family will include three body styles: a coupe, a convertible, and a sedan.