BMW 8 Series G15 (2018–2026)
Generation-specific owner insights from 77+ substantive owner discussions, with US complaint and recall records.
33
US owner complaints (NHTSA), 2018–2026
0
recall campaigns
electrical system
most-complained area
What owners say about this generation
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the G15 8 Series broadly praise it as one of the best-looking cars in BMW's current lineup, with a luxurious interior, comfortable seats, and strong grand-touring character.
3 problems reported (3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- IsolatedFit and finish could be better, with creaks and rattles noted
- IsolatedLimited aftermarket exhaust and tuning options for the 840i
- IsolatedInterior lacks massage seats and some feel it falls short of 7 Series comfort
The version owners recommend
The M850i is the most frequently recommended version, with owners who bought an 840i saying they regretted not stepping up to the V8, and others noting a used M850i can be found for only around $10k more than an 840i. The 840i's B58 is widely praised as reliable and smooth, but many feel a V8 better suits the car's grand-touring identity.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the BMW 440i Gran Coupe, BMW 540i, BMW M340i, BMW M850i and BMW M8.
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Overall sentiment
Owners of the G15 8 Series broadly praise it as one of the best-looking cars in BMW's current lineup, with a luxurious interior, comfortable seats, and strong grand-touring character. The B58-powered 840i is repeatedly called reliable and smooth, while the M850i's V8 is described as more fitting for the car's character. Criticisms center on heavy depreciation, a cabin that some feel falls short of true flagship luxury (missing massage seats, occasional creaks and rattles), limited aftermarket tuning support for the 840i, and a general sense that the model is rare and overlooked. Later model years (LCI, roughly 2023 onward) bring revised front-end styling and an illuminated grille, but owners see no dramatic change and often suggest buying a pre-LCI car to save money.
Positioning vs competitors
Owners position the 8 Series above the 4 Series and 5 Series in luxury, refinement, and interior quality, with one describing the gap as comparable to a C-Class versus an S-Class. Against the 440i Gran Coupe, the 8 is seen as more comfortable and better-finished but heavier, slower, and harder to tune. The M850i is positioned as the value alternative to the M8, offering V8 power and luxury without the M8's stiffness. Against the 911 and S-Class Coupe, owners see the 8 as a rare, elegant GT rather than a true sports car, and several note it competes on style and exclusivity rather than outright performance or prestige.
Recommended configurations
Owners strongly recommend the Bowers & Wilkins audio system and suggest seeking the premium package with heads-up display and the parking assistance package, warning that a car without them feels basic. The Gran Coupe body is recommended for those needing rear-seat space and easier cargo access, while the coupe is preferred by some for looks. Multiple owners advise buying a low-mileage used example from roughly 2020-2023 rather than new, to avoid the steepest depreciation.
General recommendations
This generation suits buyers wanting a comfortable, distinctive luxury grand tourer for daily driving or long-distance touring, particularly those who value looks and interior refinement over track performance. Owners consistently recommend buying used rather than new because of heavy depreciation, and suggest a 2020 or later low-mileage example to save significantly. Shoppers are advised to verify the car has the premium, parking assistance, and audio options they want, since many used examples are basic spec. Those wanting more power are steered toward the M850i over the 840i.
Remarks
Owners frequently note the 8 Series is a rare sight compared to the 6 Series it replaced, and several discuss the model's uncertain future amid reports it may be replaced by a revived 6 Series. Depreciation is a recurring theme, with owners citing examples of steep value loss and recommending used purchases. Analysis based on approximately 77 substantive owner discussions about this generation.
Complaints and recalls by model year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 6 | 0 | wheels |
| 2022 | 14 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2020 | 5 | 0 | service brakes |
| 2019 | 8 | 0 | air bags |
Source: US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Owner insights summarize real ownership discussions for this generation only. Complaint and recall data is public NHTSA (US) information. Always verify recalls against your VIN at nhtsa.gov.