Thanks to America, the Ultimate Driving Machine Keeps Its Roar Alive
The V8 is often hailed as the ultimate engine configuration. While smaller, forced-induction engines may offer greater efficiency, they simply can’t replicate the visceral thrill and unmistakable vibes of a big V8.
That’s why this iconic powertrain remains in high demand in markets like the U.S. and the Middle East, where affordable fuel makes the allure of a V8 burble irresistible. It’s also why BMW has decided to keep the V8 alive.
In a recent interview with Automotive News, BMW’s head of development, Frank Weber, touched on the company’s plans for electrification, its Neue Klasse architecture, and hydrogen fuel cell technology.
But the standout topic was the future of BMW’s V8 engines. Despite phasing out its V12 engines and focusing more on turbocharged inline-four and inline-six motors, BMW has no plans to abandon the V8. According to Weber:
“V8s are here to stay. There are markets such as the U.S. and Middle East where you cannot replace V8s with inline-six hybrids. This is not about performance. They are comparable in terms of acceleration, but customers like the smoothness, sound, and feeling of a V8. We will continue to offer V8s.”
For enthusiasts like me, this is fantastic news—especially in an era where V8s are rapidly disappearing. Iconic examples like Ferrari’s 296 GTB and Dodge’s Charger Daytona are already moving toward alternatives, but BMW remains committed to the V8.
Take BMW’s latest M5, for instance. It features a plug-in hybrid, twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that produces a staggering 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque—enough to make the hefty sedan feel lightning fast.
In fact, BMW’s 4.4-liter V8 is a cornerstone of its lineup, appearing in various models with unique tuning and internals. You’ll find it in vehicles like the M5 Sedan, M5 Touring, 760i, M850i Coupe, M850i Convertible, M8 Competition Convertible, M850i Gran Coupe, M8 Competition Gran Coupe, Alpina B8, X5 M60i, X5 M Competition, X6 M60i, X6 M Competition, X7 M60i, Alpina XB7, and the XM. If you’ve got the budget, BMW has a V8 for you—and it’s here to stay.
For this, you can thank America. You’re welcome, world.
