The BMW M850i xDrive, part of the G15 LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) facelift introduced in March 2022, represents the performance pinnacle of the 8 Series Coupe range. Positioned as the flagship model, it offers a blend of grand touring comfort and potent performance. The LCI brought subtle styling revisions and updated technology, but the core powertrain remained largely unchanged from the pre-facelift model. This variant caters to buyers seeking a luxurious, high-performance coupe with all-weather capability thanks to its xDrive all-wheel-drive system. It sits above the 840i in the lineup, offering a significant power upgrade and more focused driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 8 Series |
| Generation | 8 Series Coupe (G15 LCI, facelift 2022) |
| Type | M850i (530 Hp) xDrive Steptronic Sport |
| Start of production | March, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 10.5-10.8 l/100 km |
| Combined fuel consumption (US mpg) | 22.4 – 21.8 |
| Combined fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 26.9 – 26.2 |
| Combined fuel consumption (km/l) | 9.5 – 9.3 |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 239-245 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 530 Hp @ 5500-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 120.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 750 Nm @ 1800-4600 rpm (553.17 lb.-ft. @ 1800-4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N63B44D |
| Engine displacement | 4395 cm3 (268.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2395 kg (5280.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 465 kg (1025.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l (14.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 4851 mm (190.98 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1346 mm (52.99 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2822 mm (111.1 in.) |
| Front track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1642 mm (64.65 in.) |
| Front overhang | 953 mm (37.52 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1076 mm (42.36 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission Steptronic Sport |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/35 R20; 275/30 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 20; 9J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the M850i is BMW’s N63B44D 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine, a staple in BMW’s performance lineup for years, utilizes direct injection and a sophisticated valvetrain (Double-VANOS variable valve timing and Valvetronic throttle control) to deliver a broad torque curve and impressive power output. The twin-turbocharger setup consists of two, twin-scroll turbochargers positioned within the V of the engine, minimizing turbo lag and maximizing responsiveness. The engine is paired with BMW’s 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission. This transmission features quicker shift times and more aggressive programming compared to the standard Steptronic unit, enhancing the driving experience. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear axles, optimizing traction and stability in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The M850i delivers a remarkably refined yet exhilarating driving experience. The 530 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque provide effortless acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of just 3.7 seconds. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth and decisive shifts. While not as raw or track-focused as some dedicated performance cars, the M850i offers a compelling balance of comfort and performance. The xDrive system provides excellent grip, particularly in inclement weather, inspiring confidence. The steering is precise and well-weighted, although some drivers may find it lacks the ultimate feel of more focused sports cars. Compared to the 840i, the M850i offers a significantly more potent power delivery and a more engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The M850i comes standard with a comprehensive list of luxury and technology features. Standard interior appointments include premium leather upholstery, multi-contour seats with massage function, a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, and a large 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The iDrive 7 infotainment system, with its rotary controller and touchscreen interface, provides access to a wide range of features, including navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Optional extras include carbon fiber trim, extended leather upholstery, and a head-up display. The LCI facelift brought updated interior trim options and enhanced driver assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The M850i features a sophisticated chassis designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension utilizes a double-wishbone design, while the rear employs an independent multi-link setup. Adaptive dampers are standard, allowing drivers to adjust the ride quality to suit their preferences. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The M850i also features BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, which helps to maintain stability during cornering and emergency maneuvers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The M850i was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. Some reviewers noted that the car’s size and weight could make it feel less agile than smaller sports coupes. Fuel economy, while respectable for a V8-powered car, is not a strong point, with combined fuel consumption around 22-23 mpg. Compared to rivals such as the Porsche 911 and Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe, the M850i offers a unique blend of performance, luxury, and technology.
Legacy
The N63 engine family, including the N63B44D found in the M850i, has proven to be relatively reliable, although preventative maintenance is crucial. Common issues include oil leaks and cooling system failures, particularly on earlier iterations of the engine. The 8 Series Coupe, and specifically the M850i, has established itself as a desirable grand tourer in the used car market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and technology continues to appeal to buyers seeking a sophisticated and capable coupe.
