BMW has been building anticipation for some time, hinting at a revelation that would be “dynamic, elegant, and exotic” at this year’s Villa d’Este concours event. Now, the moment has finally arrived – let’s welcome the breathtaking new Concept Speedtop! Although it carries the title of a concept, the Speedtop is set to walk a path strikingly similar to last year’s mesmerizing Concept Skytop, which also dazzled audiences at Villa d’Este on Italy’s enchanting Lake Como. Over the past year, the convertible Skytop has undergone rigorous testing, with numerous sightings caught during its development. Observers are thrilled to note that the production-ready Skytop mirrors the striking design of the concept, and we can expect nothing less from the Speedtop. However, don’t hold your breath to catch a glimpse of one – the 2024 Skytop was a sensation, selling all 50 limited production units even before its grand reveal, despite a staggering price tag of approximately €590,000. With the Speedtop being only slightly less exclusive, BMW plans to produce just 70 units, with a price that parallels the Skytop’s premium offering.
At the heart of the exhilarating Concept Speedtop lies a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine that churns out a whopping 616 hp. Power roars through all four wheels via a seamless eight-speed automatic transmission. While we’re uncertain how the added shooting brake bodywork will affect the kerb weight, we can confidently estimate that the exhilarating 0-100 km/h sprint will clock in around a blistering 3.2 seconds.
BMW proudly declares that the Concept Speedtop “reimagines the sporty Touring,” with BMW’s design maestro, Adrian van Hooydonk, proclaiming: “It’s distinctly unique within the automotive industry. In doing so, we have crafted an exclamation mark for our entire lineup, especially for the Touring models.” The Speedtop showcases a captivating central spline that elegantly flows from the uniquely styled kidney grilles, cascading through the bonnet and culminating at the raised rear roofline, creating an enticing shooting brake silhouette. Additionally, the Speedtop flaunts bespoke elements such as its stunning 14-spoke wheels and a captivating exterior colour gradient, transitioning from the rich hues of Floating Sunstone Maroon to the sleek Floating Sundown Silver.
Step inside, and you’ll find an interior that’s both luxurious and striking, featuring exquisite brown and white leather upholstery along with a distinct ‘BMW Concept Speedtop’ inscription gracing the centre console. While the forefront of the cabin retains the familiar elegance of the 8 Series, equipped with the signature 12.3-inch digital display, the rear takes a bold turn. Contrary to expectations of keeping the M8’s traditional four-seat layout, the rear seats have made way for a unique luggage bay, cleverly designed into two dedicated areas, separated by a center section embossed with the ‘Speedtop’ logo.
This is not BMW's first foray into exclusive, limited-run specials showcased at Villa d’Este. Just in 2023, the automaker unveiled the Concept Touring Coupé as a contemporary homage to the legendary Z3 M ‘Clown shoe’ coupé, while 2016 saw the introduction of the Hommage concept, based on the previous-generation M2, paying tribute to the iconic 2002 Turbo. And hold onto your hats: it would be unwise to assume the Speedtop is the end of this exhilarating journey. Sylvia Neubauer, the vice president for BMW M customers, brand and sales, hinted at an exciting future in small-series editions with the coveted ‘M’ designation, promising that something thrilling is on the horizon for upcoming Villa d’Este events.
With the Concept Speedtop capturing the imagination of automotive enthusiasts, it appears that BMW is poised to continue its tradition of delivering breathtaking, exclusive vehicles that embody the spirit of performance and luxury.