BMW Bids Farewell to the 8-Series with E31 Hues and an Abundance of M Branding | Carscoops

      The limited-run 2026 BMW M850i Edition M Heritage features more M badges than the M8.

      BMW has introduced a special G15 8-Series limited to just 500 units globally.

      This model is based on the M850i xDrive Gran Coupe, which boasts a 523 hp twin-turbocharged V8 engine.

      The M Heritage Edition showcases classic E31 colors and comes fully equipped.

      As the G15 generation of the BMW 8-Series approaches the end of its lifecycle, having been launched in 2018, BMW is celebrating with a distinct limited-edition model, aside from the full M8 variant.

      The 2026 M850i Edition M Heritage is a limited production run of 500 units, featuring a comprehensive package and a nostalgic color scheme inspired by the original E31 8 Series. This special model serves as a fitting farewell to the brand's flagship grand tourer.

      This limited edition was unveiled at Pebble Beach, displayed alongside the stunning E31. Unlike the ’90s two-door coupe, the Edition M Heritage is based on the more versatile M850i xDrive Gran Coupe.

      **Classic Colors, Modern Package**

      A standout feature of this special edition is its vibrant paint options. BMW has revived five classic hues from the original E31 lineup: Bright Red, Mauritius Blue metallic, Cosmos Black metallic, Oxford Green metallic, and Daytona Violet metallic. These heritage colors are included in the overall price, alongside numerous features generally offered as optional upgrades.

      These nostalgic colors complement an M carbon roof featuring tri-color stripes and a set of 20-inch alloy wheels in a bi-color Orbit Grey finish. Additionally, the special edition incorporates the M Sport Professional package, which introduces dark accents, black calipers, and dark-tinted headlights.

      **Alcantara and Carbon Inside**

      The interior is adorned with Alcantara, covering the dashboard, door panels, and headliner. M Sport seats are dressed in Black Full Merino leather and Alcantara featuring a diamond pattern and non-illuminated M badges on the headrests.

      Heritage-inspired details decorate the interior, including tri-color stitching, edition-specific M850i branding on the cupholder and door sills, as well as a numbered plaque on the center console. The matte carbon fiber trim unifies the design. Standard features include nearly every option available, such as the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System and the Driving Assistance Professional Package.

      **Engine and Performance**

      Similar to the standard M850i, this special edition is powered by a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 producing 523 hp (390 kW / 530 PS) and 533 lb-ft (723 Nm) of torque. This version is the most powerful of the 8-Series, excluding the full M8 and M8 Competition. It comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, allowing acceleration from 0 to 60 mph (0-96 km/h) in just 3.9 seconds.

      **Pricing and Availability**

      The 2026 M850i Edition M Heritage is now available for order, starting at $130,400, not including a $1,175 destination and handling fee. This pricing makes it $21,000 more expensive than the standard M850i xDrive Gran Coupe, although the features and exclusive details likely justify the price difference.

      BMW will produce only 500 units of this special edition, with availability limited to select markets, including the US. Production is scheduled to commence in November, with deliveries expected to start in the first quarter of 2026.