Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 8 Series |
| Generation | 8 Series (G15) |
| Type (Engine) | 840d (320 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.2-7.6 l/100 km (32.7 – 30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1-5.4 l/100 km (46.1 – 43.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9-6.2 l/100 km (39.9 – 37.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 154-164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 174.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 371.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 320 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Torque | 680 Nm @ 1750-2250 rpm (501.54 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B57D30B |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1830 kg (4034.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2370 kg (5224.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l (14.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4843 mm (190.67 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Height | 1341 mm (52.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2822 mm (111.1 in.) |
| Front track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1642 mm (64.65 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 121 mm (4.76 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| 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 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
The BMW 8 Series G15 840d xDrive Steptronic, produced from 2018 to 2020, marked BMW’s return to the large luxury coupe segment after a nearly twenty-year absence. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the G15 8 Series lineup, it aimed to deliver a balance of performance and efficiency, appealing to buyers seeking a grand tourer with the benefits of diesel power. Built on the G15 platform, it shared many components with the flagship 7 Series sedan. The combination of BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission made it a capable and comfortable vehicle for long-distance travel.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The core of the 840d is BMW’s B57D30B 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine. This engine is part of BMW’s modular engine family, renowned for its robust construction and advanced technology. It features a cast iron block, an aluminum cylinder head, and four valves per cylinder. The B57 utilizes a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A key feature of the 840d is its twin-turbocharger setup – a smaller turbocharger for quick response at lower engine speeds and a larger turbocharger for increased power at higher RPMs. An intercooler cools the compressed intake air, further enhancing performance. The engine produces 320 horsepower at 4400 rpm and a substantial 680 Nm (501.54 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2250 rpm. This torque output is a defining characteristic, providing strong acceleration in almost any gear.
The engine is paired with BMW’s eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth and quick shifts, contributing significantly to the 840d’s refined driving experience. The Steptronic transmission offers both automatic and manual shift modes, allowing the driver to take control when desired. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, providing excellent traction in various weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 840d xDrive Steptronic delivers a refined and powerful driving experience. The abundant torque from the diesel engine provides effortless acceleration, making it well-suited for highway cruising and overtaking. While not as overtly sporty as the gasoline-powered 840i, the 840d offers more than adequate performance, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 4.7 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, and the xDrive system provides confident handling in a variety of conditions. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, with taller gears for relaxed cruising. Compared to the 840i, the 840d offers superior fuel economy, but sacrifices some of the high-revving excitement of the gasoline engine. Compared to the 850i, it provides a more economical option with a focus on torque rather than outright horsepower.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 840d xDrive Steptronic came standard with a comprehensive list of features, befitting a luxury grand tourer. Standard equipment included leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats with memory function, a premium sound system, a large infotainment screen with iDrive controller, navigation, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included upgraded leather, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and various cosmetic enhancements. Interior trim options included wood, aluminum, and carbon fiber accents.
Chassis & Braking
The 8 Series G15 features a sophisticated chassis designed for both comfort and handling. The front suspension utilizes a double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link setup. This configuration provides a smooth ride and precise control. The 840d is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system is augmented by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control. The steering is an electric power steering system, offering precise and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 840d was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined driving experience, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. The diesel engine was noted for its quiet operation and impressive fuel economy. However, some critics found the 840d to be less engaging to drive than the gasoline-powered 840i. In terms of fuel economy, the 840d significantly outperformed the 840i, making it a more practical choice for long-distance drivers. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the B57 engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.
Legacy
The BMW 8 Series G15 840d xDrive Steptronic represents a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and efficiency. The B57 diesel engine has proven to be a robust and reliable powertrain, and the 840d continues to be a desirable used car option for buyers seeking a grand tourer with strong torque and good fuel economy. Its sophisticated technology and refined driving experience ensure its place as a notable model within the modern BMW lineup.
