Article: BMW M-Division Working On New 8-Series

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 As has been expected for some time, BMW is indeed working on a new 8-Series to sit atop the BMW range. Expected to look much like the CS Concept, the coupe-shaped sedan is now reportedly being developed by BMW's special M-division. After all, the 8-Series will be going up against the likes of the Porsche Panamera and Aston Martin Rapide. But don't expect to see it wearing the tri-color 'M' badge. In an interview with Drive.com.au, BMW M president Ludwig Willisch explained: �It�s a car that doesn�t have any resemblance to the other cars built by BMW AG, so it was decided to give the project to us.�

Interesting he should claim it "doesn�t have any resemblance to the other cars," because most are suggesting the car will be at least somewhat based on the chassis of the new 2009 BMW 7-Series. Though the powerplant is still a mystery, everything from a 550 HP 6.0-liter V12 based on the M5's V10, to the next generation M5's alleged twin-turbo V8 has been suspected. Either way, we won't be seeing the 8-Series on the road for at least a couple years still.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: It's good to see BMW's M-division developing an actual car in addition to the rumored X5 and X6 M-models. However, this new 8-Series is nothing like the original coupe from the '90s. That first car was a spiritual successor to the E24 6-Series, but this new car doesn't hearken back to anything.

[Source: jalopnik.com]