Journalists usually concentrate on the latest models or whatever around the corner. Today we do things differently by taking a break from the infinite news cycle to emphasize a BMW that might have forgotten some. Yes, the 8 -series series still lives in 2025. Better, you have until Friday to check them at the Auto Shanghai Show in China.
The 8er has rarely exceeded our radar lately outside the Skytop M8 base, partly because the entire line-up has a foot in the grave. Some versions will be stopped later this year, with the remaining models face the ax in 2026. In the meantime it is as usual. BMW shows the convertible (G14) as one of the 42 cars at its massive stand in Shanghai.
The wild color combination of this 840i cannot hide the fact that the 8s of the old guard belong. That sounds negative, but it’s actually a plus. At least in my book. The appearance shows that an attractive car never gets out of fashion even after seven years of production with only minimal changes. Similarly, the interior could look out of date compared to the latest models from BMW, but I say that it does the right balance between screens and buttons.
The 8 series could mark the beginning of the end for gas-fueled convertibles. According to reports, BMW is already pulling the plug on the Z4 in 2026. In addition, the 4 Series cannot live to see another generation with combustion engines. Nevertheless, it is difficult to imagine that the German luxury brand of this segment gives up completely.
An electric convertible seems likely to be in the new class era. According to reports, an i4 convertible (Na3) could arrive before the end of the decade, possibly in 2028. In the meantime, it is still time to grab one of the three gas-powered models from BMW with an electrically folding fabric roof. Personally, we would probably sacrifice a bit of practicality and decide a Z4 M40i with a manual, but it is difficult to surpass the elegance of the 8.
Although the second generation’s 8s never really go over, the fact that their days are numbered makes us sad. The decision to pull the plug is understandable because BMW can earn more money in other segments. Having three converted pieces is exaggerated in an SUV era. So get one while you can.
