MUNICH: The rumour mill has been turning about BMW's 8 Series making a comeback to rival Mercedes-Benz's S-Class coupe and cabriolet model range.
The word is that the 8-Series has been earmarked for launch by 2020 and will use the G14/G15 internal codes to take its place alongside the current generation G11/G12 (long wheelbase) 7-Series.
There's also mention that the new 8 Series will effectively replace the current 6 Series models, which will then begin its training to take on the Porsche 911 and Mercedes-AMG GT - leaving the upcoming 5 Series GT to carry on Bavaria's Gran Coupe legacy.
Apparently, there's also unconfirmed reports of the Munich-based carmaker having submitted applications for the trademarking of the 825, 830, 835, 845, 850, M850 and M8 names.
As Automobile Magazine reported, the 8 Series will use the German carmaker's latest Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform that uses high-strength steel, aluminum and carbon fibre for significant weight savings like in the current 7 Series.
Furthermore, there's also mention that there will not be a four-door 8 Series variant for fear that it may cannibalize sales of the 7-Series.
BMWBlog says that a 650hp 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 could reside under the hood of the range-topping models, as well as a 450hp 3.0-litre inline-six and a four or six-cylinder plug-in hybrid for powertrain options.
But, with all the speculations bouncing through the interweb, we hope that BMW doesn't depart too far from the original 8 Series (E31) after it was retired in 2000.
Lets hope some, if not, most of its elements - other than its nomenclature, makes it to the present such as the lack of a B-pillar, sleek 0.29Cd design, long hood, 4+4 seating and maybe those pop-up headlights once more as an ode to the original.
*BMW 8 Series renders from BMWBlog.
BMW 8 Series
BMW 850Ci
The BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupe concept's (below) design cues could also find its way onto the upcoming 8-Series as well.
