The BMW 8 Series G15 840i Steptronic, produced from 2020 to March 2022, represents a return to the luxury coupe market for BMW after a nearly two-decade hiatus. This model, built on the G15 platform, aimed to blend grand touring comfort with modern performance technology. The 840i served as a mid-range offering within the 8 Series lineup, positioned above the 830d and below the higher-performance M850i and M8 models. It targeted buyers seeking a sophisticated, powerful, and technologically advanced coupe experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 8 Series |
| Generation | 8 Series (G15) |
| Type (Engine) | 840i (333 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | March, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 9.3-9.5 l/100 km (25.3 – 24.8 US mpg, 30.4 – 29.7 UK mpg, 10.8 – 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.8-6.0 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.2 US mpg, 48.7 – 47.1 UK mpg, 17.2 – 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.1-7.3 l/100 km (33.1 – 32.2 US mpg, 39.8 – 38.7 UK mpg, 14.1 – 13.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 163-168 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp, 192.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 289 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 333 Hp @ 5500-6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 111.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1700-4000 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1700-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B58B30C |
| Engine displacement | 2998 cm3 (182.95 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | VALVETRONIC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2225 kg (4905.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 495 kg (1091.29 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 | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
INTRODUCTION
The BMW 840i Steptronic, launched in 2020, marked BMW’s re-entry into the large luxury coupe segment. It’s built upon the same CLAR (Cluster Architecture) platform as the 7 Series sedan and X5 SUV, prioritizing lightweight construction and a low center of gravity. The G15 generation 8 Series aimed to deliver a more driver-focused experience than its predecessor, the E31 8 Series, while offering a significantly more modern and technologically advanced package. The 840i, with its inline-six engine and automatic transmission, was designed to provide a balance of performance and comfort, appealing to buyers who desired a refined grand tourer.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 840i lies BMW’s B58B30C 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine is a member of BMW’s modular engine family, known for its smooth power delivery and efficiency. It utilizes direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and BMW’s VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and lift system. VALVETRONIC allows for precise control of valve timing and lift, optimizing engine performance and fuel economy across a wide range of driving conditions. The B58 engine produces 333 horsepower at 5500-6250 rpm and 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque between 1700 and 4000 rpm.
The engine is paired with BMW’s 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. This transmission features a torque converter and offers smooth, quick shifts. It includes features like launch control and adaptive shift programs that adjust shift points based on driving style. The transmission is longitudinally mounted, driving the rear wheels. The combination of the B58 engine and the 8-speed Steptronic transmission provides a responsive and refined driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 840i Steptronic delivers a refined and capable driving experience. The inline-six engine provides ample power for both relaxed cruising and spirited driving. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a comfortable ride. While not as overtly sporty as the M850i, the 840i offers a well-balanced chassis and precise steering, making it enjoyable to drive on winding roads. The rear-wheel drive configuration provides a traditional sports car feel, although it can require careful throttle control in slippery conditions. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 4.9 seconds, making it a quick but not overwhelmingly powerful grand tourer. The gear ratios are tuned for a blend of acceleration and fuel efficiency, with taller gears for highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 840i Steptronic came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats with memory function, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch central infotainment display with iDrive 7.0, navigation, Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a premium sound system. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, active roll stabilization, laser headlights, and a variety of interior trim options. The interior design emphasized luxury and craftsmanship, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The 840i features a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to balance comfort and control, offering a more compliant ride than the sportier M850i. The 840i is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The braking system provides strong and consistent stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features, enhancing safety and control. The car’s weight distribution is optimized for balanced handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 840i was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its refined engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted that it lacked the outright performance of its rivals, such as the Porsche 911. Compared to the 830d, the 840i offered significantly more power and a more engaging driving experience, but at a higher price point. Compared to the M850i, the 840i provided a more comfortable and relaxed driving experience, while sacrificing some performance. Fuel economy was respectable for a vehicle of its size and performance, averaging around 33 mpg combined.
Legacy
The BMW 840i Steptronic represents a modern interpretation of the classic grand tourer. The B58 engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant, and the 8-speed Steptronic transmission is known for its smooth operation. On the used car market, the 840i offers a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and technology. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of more mainstream vehicles, the 840i is generally considered to be a well-built and reliable car. Its sophisticated design and engaging driving experience continue to appeal to buyers seeking a premium coupe.
