The BMW M850i xDrive, part of the G16 LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) facelift introduced in March 2022, represents the performance pinnacle of the 8 Series Gran Coupe range. Positioned as the flagship model, it combines luxurious appointments with potent power delivery. The “LCI” designation signifies a mid-cycle refresh, bringing updated styling, technology, and refinements to the already sophisticated 8 Series platform. This variant specifically utilizes a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine paired with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, targeting drivers seeking a grand touring experience with exceptional performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 8 Series |
| Generation | 8 Series Gran Coupe (G16 LCI, facelift 2022) |
| Type | M850i (530 Hp) xDrive Steptronic Sport |
| Start of production | March, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 10.7-11 l/100 km (22 – 21.4 US mpg, 26.4 – 25.7 UK mpg, 9.3 – 9.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 243-251 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 | 3.8 kg/Hp, 263.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 373.1 Nm/tonne |
| 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 | 2010 kg (4431.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2600 kg (5732.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 5082 mm (200.08 in.) |
| Width | 1932 mm (76.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1407 mm (55.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3023 mm (119.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1671 mm (65.79 in.) |
| Front overhang | 953 mm (37.52 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1106 mm (43.54 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.6 m (41.34 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives all four wheels. |
| 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 |
| Tires size | 245/35 R20; 275/30 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 20; 9J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the M850i lies the N63B44D engine, a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8. This engine is a direct descendant of BMW’s long-standing tradition of high-performance V8s, but incorporates significant advancements in fuel injection, turbocharging, and thermal management. The engine utilizes direct injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chambers for improved efficiency and responsiveness. Two twin-scroll turbochargers, positioned within the V of the engine, minimize turbo lag and provide a broad torque curve. The engine also features Valvetronic technology, which allows for precise control of valve lift and timing, optimizing engine performance and fuel economy. The eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission is specifically tuned for the M850i, offering quicker shift times and more responsive operation than the standard Steptronic unit. It features paddle shifters for manual control, allowing the driver to select gears as desired. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability in all conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The M850i delivers a driving experience characterized by effortless power and refined comfort. The 530 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque provide exhilarating acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of just 3.7 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine’s power delivery, providing smooth and seamless gear changes. The xDrive system ensures optimal traction, even under hard acceleration. While not as overtly track-focused as the M8 Competition, the M850i offers a more than capable performance for spirited driving. Compared to lower-powered 8 Series variants, such as the 840i, the M850i provides a significantly more potent and engaging driving experience. The increased torque allows for effortless overtaking and strong acceleration in any gear. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, while still maintaining excellent body control.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The M850i xDrive comes standard with a comprehensive array 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 intuitive interface and voice control, is also standard. Optional extras include carbon fiber trim, extended leather upholstery, and a head-up display. The M850i also benefits from BMW’s Active Driving Assist Professional, which includes features such as adaptive cruise control with stop & go, lane keeping assist, and automatic lane change.
Chassis & Braking
The M850i utilizes a sophisticated chassis design to deliver a balance of comfort and handling. The front suspension features a double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link setup. Adaptive dampers are standard, allowing the driver to adjust the suspension stiffness to suit their preferences. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The M Sport brakes, available as an option, offer even greater stopping performance. The steering is electrically assisted, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The M850i xDrive was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. Some critics noted that the car’s size and weight could make it feel less agile than some of its competitors. However, the M850i consistently ranked highly in comparisons against other grand touring cars, such as the Porsche Panamera and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, is respectable for a vehicle of this performance, averaging around 22-21.4 US mpg. Reliability has been generally good, although some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system.
Legacy
The N63B44D engine, while complex, has proven to be a robust and reliable powerplant when properly maintained. The M850i xDrive represents a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and technology. On the used car market, these models hold their value relatively well, particularly those with low mileage and a well-documented service history. The G16 8 Series, and the M850i in particular, is considered a modern classic, offering a grand touring experience that is both exhilarating and refined.
