[dropcap size=small]T[/dropcap]hese are exciting times for Bimmer aficionados. The German automaker is bringing out the big guns to contest the increasingly competitive luxury car arena, in the form of a refreshed BMW 8 Series, the brand’s most luxurious line of coupes.

The last 8 Series wrapped up a 10-year production run in 1999, during which it was the brand’s flagship coupe. The new line will replace the outgoing 6 Series.

A prototype – termed the Concept 8 series – was recently revealed at the annual Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este at Lake Como.

The 8 Series will be based on this concept and is targeted at a 2018 launch. If one thing stands out in the aggressive and masculine design language, it’s the tapered outer edges of the front grille, a marked departure from what has been a relatively consistent element. A sure sign that great things have been planned for the grand tourer.

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