BMW isn’t letting the 8 Series slip quietly into the night. Instead, the Bavarian marque is preparing a final flourish for its luxury grand tourer, as confirmed by M Division boss Frank van Meel during the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Speaking with German outlet Bimmer Today, van Meel revealed that a limited-run M850i special edition is on its way, marking one last celebration of the nameplate before production ends in 2026.
The announcement may not come as a complete surprise—BMW has long shown a fondness for commemorative farewells—but this time, it’s skipping the full-blown M8 and instead opting for the more accessible yet potent M850i. Currently available in Coupe, Convertible, and Gran Coupe forms, it remains unclear which body style will underpin the final edition. Given the premium positioning of the lineup, expect pricing to land firmly in six-figure territory. For context, the base M850i Coupe starts at $110,575 in the U.S., while the Convertible commands $120,275.
The Final Curtain Call?
The second-generation 8 Series has quietly entered its 2026 model year in North America, but the writing has been on the wall. Reports suggest that production will wrap up globally in 2026, with no direct successor confirmed. Whispers of a fully electric Gran Coupe on the horizon hint at BMW’s future direction, but for now, this special edition may serve as the 8’s swan song.
This isn’t the first time BMW has flirted with exclusive sendoffs. Earlier this year, the Skytop and Speedtop concepts, both based on the M8, stirred excitement—but van Meel was clear: this new limited edition is rooted in the M850i, not its M-badged sibling. That likely rules out a CS (Competition Sport) variant, a designation typically reserved for full-blown M models.
What to Expect
Details remain tightly under wraps, but based on BMW’s past “Individual” efforts, expect bespoke paint finishes, unique wheels, and a luxuriously trimmed interior. Exclusive badging, limited production plaques, and possibly some chassis tweaks could set this model apart from the standard M850i.
More broadly, BMW M has hinted at additional special editions coming before the end of 2025, though no all-new products are planned. Recent examples include 50th anniversary 3 Series models released in China and Australia—proof that Munich isn’t finished with its celebratory streak just yet.
As the 8 Series edges toward retirement, BMW is reminding enthusiasts that luxury and performance don’t have to go quietly. The upcoming M850i special edition may be the final chapter for this generation, but if history is any guide, it’s likely to be one worth remembering.
Source: Bimmer Today via YouTube