Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2020 BMW 8 Series
The 2020 BMW 8 Series is a coupe that earns a Carivo score of 7.5/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Technology at 8.7/10, while Value at 6.2/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. At 6.6/10 for reliability, this coupe trails its segment. That doesn't rule it out, but go in with eyes open on running costs. Safety lands at 8.3/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Few rivals match it for performance: 8.3/10. Expect handling and power delivery that make this one of the more entertaining coupes to actually drive. On technology it rates 8.7/10: a modern, well-integrated suite that compares favorably with anything at this price point.
Priced from $74,756–$97,708, 18 MPG, seating 4, the BMW 8 Series sits in the luxury tier of the coupe market. The value score of 6.2/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 6 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2020 BMW 8 Series will scare a sensible buyer off. Keep an eye on reliability and value if those matter to you; otherwise it does what a good coupe should — quietly and competently.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Coupes
The 2020 BMW 8 Series ranks #60 of 110 coupes in the Carivo database — better than 46% of the segment. Its 7.5/10 overall score is exactly at the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $74,756 starting price is about 58% above the segment's median of $47,314.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which 8 Series Year Should You Buy?
Across the 8 Series model years we've scored, the 2020 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Best-in-class infotainment, driver assistance, and connectivity features
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Value-for-money is a weak point; comparable alternatives offer more for the price
Fuel economy at 18 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Premium price bracket — make sure the score justifies the outlay vs. segment alternatives
Common Questions — 2020 BMW 8 Series
Is the 2020 BMW 8 Series reliable?
We rate the 2020 BMW 8 Series's reliability 6.6/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2020 BMW 8 Series worth buying?
It scores 7.5/10 overall, ranking #60 of 110 coupes in our database (better than 46% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2020 BMW 8 Series cost?
The 2020 BMW 8 Series starts at $74,756 and ranges up to $97,708 across trims (MSRP when new). At 18 MPG, expect roughly $2,917/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which 8 Series years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 7 8 Series model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.8/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — BMW 8 Series
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More BMW Reviews
Explore the full lineup of BMW models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
Representative photo — may show another model year