When discussing luxury coupes that command attention, the 2020 Bmw 840i Coupe immediately enters the conversation. While its starting price of nearly $90,000 might not scream “budget-friendly,” within the context of the BMW 8 Series range, the rear-wheel-drive 840i emerges as surprisingly accessible. More importantly, for discerning drivers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and value, the 2020 BMW 840i Coupe arguably represents the most compelling iteration of the 8 Series available. This review delves into why the 840i Coupe is not just a beautiful machine, but also a smart choice in the high-end coupe market.
Head-Turning Design and Public Acclaim
The visual impact of the 2020 BMW 840i Coupe is undeniable. Driving through city streets or cruising on the highway, this vehicle consistently draws admiring glances and sparks conversations. Bystanders frequently inquire about the price and express genuine appreciation for its design. Despite some online comparisons to more mainstream cars, in person, the 840i Coupe clearly projects an aura of exclusivity and high-end craftsmanship that the general public readily recognizes. The sheer number of positive interactions experienced while driving this car underscores its success in capturing attention and admiration.
Sporty Edge with the M Sport Package
Enhancing the already striking aesthetics, the tested 2020 BMW 840i Coupe featured the optional M Sport Package. This upgrade, priced at $4,850, introduces a suite of sporty enhancements. These include more aggressively styled front and rear bumpers, distinct side skirts, two-tone 19-inch alloy wheels, upgraded brakes with blue calipers, darkened window trim, and a thicker, more tactile M Sport steering wheel. While the M Sport package certainly amplifies the 840i’s sporty character, it maintains a level of sophisticated restraint, distinguishing itself from the overtly aggressive styling of the top-tier M8. A minor aesthetic critique is the window trim, which might benefit from coordinating with the chrome grille for a more cohesive look.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: Turbocharged Thrills
Under the hood, the 2020 BMW 840i Coupe houses a potent 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. This powerplant delivers 335 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque, a considerable step down from the M850i’s twin-turbo V8. However, in real-world driving, the 840i’s engine proves to be more than sufficient. The readily available low-end torque and the seamless shifts of the ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission create a driving experience that feels genuinely quick and responsive. BMW officially quotes a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds (4.4 seconds with optional all-wheel drive), but subjectively, it feels even faster. While the M850i offers blistering acceleration, the 840i provides a thoroughly engaging and enjoyable driving experience without sacrificing everyday usability. Furthermore, the 840i boasts significantly better fuel economy, averaging 24 mpg in mixed driving conditions, including highway stretches exceeding 30 mpg – figures unattainable with the V8.
Despite its grand touring classification, the 2020 BMW 840i Coupe exhibits surprising agility. The steering, while lacking ultimate feedback, is precise and well-weighted, contributing to the car’s nimble feel. The 8 Series handles corners with confidence, rotating predictably and maintaining composure even on challenging, winding roads. Compared to the heavier M850i, the 840i feels lighter on its feet, particularly noticeable in the front end, enhancing its responsiveness and overall driving enjoyment.
Luxurious and Tech-Forward Interior
Stepping inside the 2020 BMW 840i Coupe reveals a cabin that is both luxurious and technologically advanced. The test vehicle featured Ivory White leather upholstery, creating a bright and inviting ambiance, a welcome departure from often somber, dark interiors prevalent in modern luxury cars. Leather adorns nearly every surface, emphasizing the high-quality materials and construction throughout the cabin. The interior design aligns with BMW’s contemporary aesthetic, which is both functional and elegant. Physical buttons for frequently used controls like climate settings and driving modes are thoughtfully placed, complemented by a user-friendly volume knob and BMW’s acclaimed iDrive infotainment system. The iDrive system, considered by many to be a leader in the industry, integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 10.25-inch central touchscreen, controllable via touch or a rotary knob on the center console. As typical for coupes in this segment, the rear seats are compact, but still offer enough space for shorter adults on occasion.
Feature-Rich with Select Options
The 2020 BMW 840i Coupe comes generously equipped with standard features. Highlights include a head-up display, navigation, wireless charging, wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility, adaptive LED headlights, and heated seats, steering wheel, and armrests. The test car was also fitted with the Driving Assistance Package 2, a $500 option that incorporates blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, a high-resolution 360-degree camera system, and parking sensors. However, surprisingly absent as standard is adaptive cruise control. To access this feature, buyers must opt for the Driving Assistance Professional Package, a $1,700 upgrade that also includes traffic jam assist, lane-keeping assist with lane-centering, and advanced collision avoidance systems. For those prioritizing driver-assistance technologies, this package is a worthwhile addition.
The Value Proposition and Ideal Configuration
The 2020 BMW 840i Coupe occupies a compelling position within the luxury coupe market. While the M850i offers more power, the 840i delivers a balanced and engaging driving experience at a significantly lower starting price. The price difference of over $20,000 between the two models is substantial, especially considering the 840i’s already comprehensive standard equipment. Even when factoring in desirable options like the Driving Assistance Professional Package, 20-inch wheels ($1,300), and the stunning Ivory White and Night Blue two-tone interior ($2,650), the 2020 BMW 840i Coupe remains competitively priced against rivals like the Lexus LC 500 and Porsche 911. For those seeking even greater practicality without sacrificing style, the BMW 840i Gran Coupe presents an intriguing alternative, offering four doors and increased rear passenger space at a lower price point than the two-door coupe.
Conclusion: The Smart Luxury Coupe Choice
The 2020 BMW 840i Coupe successfully blends head-turning aesthetics, engaging performance, and luxurious amenities in a package that represents excellent value within its class. It’s a grand tourer that is equally adept at cruising comfortably on long journeys and carving through twisty roads with surprising agility. For buyers considering a luxury coupe who prioritize a balance of performance and price, the 2020 BMW 840i Coupe stands out as the smart and rewarding choice in the BMW 8 Series lineup.
