The BMW Serie 8 debuts an entry-level petrol variant alongside the 840i name

When a brand launched a new generation of a model that had already offered sporty variants, it always generated great anticipation. However, over the years we have seen marketing strategies change, something that BMW demonstrates with its new way of launching the variants of the new Serie 8. The flagship of the coupé family made its appearance in this era with the M850i badge -the prelude to the recently presented M8- and with the 840d, a range of engines that seemed rather limited. However, the Bavarian brand has not only just added the Gran Coupé body style to its Serie 8 to broaden that range, but has also introduced the 840i engine.

This badge represents the cheapest and most modest version of the petrol engines, and it will quickly come under the spotlight of potential Serie 8 buyers. The Coupé, Gran Coupé and Cabrio bodies can all be paired with this engine, as can the xDrive all-wheel drive, which is optional on all three configurations.

However, even though BMW has chosen this designation to introduce the smallest engine in the petrol range, the sporting character is still very much present. Behind this badge we find an engine that matches the Serie 8 and, although it does not offer the outrageous performance of the twin-turbo V8 that powers the M8, it will continue to provide its drivers with a high level of fun.

To be more precise, the 840i will feature a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder block capable of producing 340 CV and 500 Nm of torque. With these figures, the xDrive-equipped Serie 8 Coupé can reach 100 km/h in a not-at-all-unimpressive 4.7 seconds, a time that rises slightly in the Gran Coupé -4.9 seconds- and the Cabrio.

An initial outlay of 101,900 euros will be required if we opt for the 840i Gran Coupé, making it the cheapest option in the Serie 8 family. This cost rises to 105,200 euros with the Serie 8 Coupé and, in turn, increases to 114,000 euros if our choice is the 840i Cabrio.

In this way, BMW seems to have completely consolidated the new Serie 8 with the exception of the upcoming M8 Gran Coupé, a variant that will aim to go head-to-head with models such as the Porsche Panamera or the Mercedes-AMG GT four-door. Without a doubt, the 840i will become one of the most attractive options for Serie 8 customers, since they will be able to enjoy a more than acceptable value for money in terms of performance and fun.