Featured Car: 2024 BMW M8 Competition Coupé

The “Ultimate Driving Machine” is a moniker that BMW has owned for the past four decades. Some may doubt that slogan holds up to as much scrutiny as in the past, but that would be a shortsighted response to the fact the world of automobiles has changed dramatically from when that slogan was first published in print and projected itself on TV screens across North America.

As a young man at the time, my heart skipped a beat. This was the car brand that instantly rose to the top, quickly becoming the benchmark by which all other sports cars were judged. The 2024 BMW M8 Competition Coupé is proof the Munich based automaker is still intent on delivering a driving experience that is sure to put a smile on any drivers face who demands a high level of performance.

A 4.4L V8 gasoline-powered BMW M twin-turbocharged engine delivers 617 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque.

Matched to an 8-speed M Sport transmission, with sport and manual shift modes, it surges to 100 km/h in just north of 3 seconds. While there are other cars of this ilk that are faster, though not by much, it would be foolish to underestimate just how fast it feels from behind the steering.

The 2024 BMW M8 Competition Coupé is as comfortable on city streets as it is on the racetrack. M X-Drive and Active M Differential deliver maximum traction with a rear-wheel drive bias in an all-wheel drive system. Drivers can choose from multiple drive settings including 4WD, 4WD Sport and 2WD with DSC disengaged.

Of equal importance to acceleration is the ability to stop quickly and in a controlled manner. Standard 6-piston front M brakes have been upgraded on our test vehicle to the ultra-high performance M carbon ceramic brakes with gold calipers. A $10,900 (CAD) option, the price is not for the faint of heart. But when you are spending $160K+ to start, the additional cost and the added stopping power is worth strong consideration. During my time in the driver’s seat, I experienced no additional brake squeal or extended warm up time for the carbon ceramic brakes to reach maximum performance.

Completing the performance quotient, burnished 20” star-spoked alloy wheels are equipped with 275/35 ZR 20 front and 285/35 ZR 20 rear Michelin Pilot Sport tires for exceptional grip and drivability.

Considering its luxurious proportions, the M8 Competition Coupé drives smaller than you might first expect. There is plenty of room to stretch out in the front seats and just let the world go by while others stare in awe at your passing. It is not a lightweight at 1,950 kg (4,295 lbs.) but its sleek design cuts a svelte figure on the boulevard, backcountry road, or clipping the apex on a perfect lap at a racetrack, should the opportunity arise.

Inside, the journey of discovery continues with sculpted carbon fiber front seats covered in a striking combination of black Merino leather, black Alcantara side bolsters and diamond-quilted Midrand Beige inserts with matching beige stitching. The show-stopper here is the view from the side and back seats, yes I said back seats. It is by stepping away a few feet, or sliding into the back that the carbon craftsmanship takes center stage. And, unlike several other similarly designed seats I have spent quality time in over the years, these carbon buckets are easy on the body.

What has always separated BMW from the crowd is their attention to detail. This is on full display outside, especially in Marina Bay Blue Metallic. Every sculpted body panel is accentuated to achieve a visual feast for the eyes. There isn’t a bad angle on the M8 Competition Coupé, and it will stand up to the scrutiny of anyone who calls themself a lover of sports cars. A slogan that started oh so many years ago continues to resonate as a mission statement for Bayerische Motoren Werke GmbH, better known as BMW.

2024 BMW M8 Competition Coupé
Price as tested: $187,150.00
Configuration: Front engine/all-wheel drive
Engine/transmission: 4.4-litre 8-cylinder/ 8-speed automatic
Power/torque: 617 horsepower/ 553 lb-ft of torque
Combined fuel economy ratings (L/100 km): 13.5 L/100 km
Warranties: 4-years/80,000 km (basic)
Competitors: Audi RS7, Cadillac CTS-V Blackwing, Jaguar F-TYPE, Maserati GranTurismo, Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe, Porsche 911
Website: BMW Canada