The BMW Speedtop: A Striking New Shooting Brake Debuts

The BMW Speedtop: A Striking New Shooting Brake Debuts

On May 23, 2025, the automotive world was abuzz as BMW unveiled the highly anticipated Speedtop at the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Lake Como, Italy. Building on the foundations laid by the previous Concept Touring Coupe, which unfortunately did not enter production, the arrival of the Speedtop has rekindled enthusiasm among car enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The Speedtop is more than just a continuation of the design ethos established by the Skytop; it introduces a refined shooting brake silhouette that captures the attention of onlookers. Unlike its predecessor, the Speedtop features a fixed roof that gracefully incorporates a central ridge, ditching the removable targa panels in favor of a more cohesive design. The roof presents a stunning color gradient that transitions from Floating Sunset Maroon to Floating Sundown Silver, ensuring a visual impact that is both striking and sophisticated.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Speedtop is its profile. The elegant, gently sloping roofline culminates in a sizeable rear spoiler, enhancing the aerodynamics while remaining aesthetically pleasing. This new model also pioneers an innovative approach to door handles, integrating them seamlessly into the door shoulders, thereby eliminating the conventional design in favor of a sleeker look. Furthermore, tiny chrome winglets have been incorporated, hinting at styling cues that will appear on future BMW models, such as the upcoming X5 and X7 SUVs.

From a design perspective, the Speedtop showcases the beauty of simplicity, steering clear of the excessive ornamentation that often plagues modern automotive design. The new two-tone, 14-spoke wheels further accentuate this philosophy and are specifically crafted for this distinctive model.

At the rear, the Speedtop's wide fenders are complemented by some of the slimmest taillights found on any production vehicle. It’s here that one can also appreciate the sound of performance; the Speedtop is powered by BMW’s most potent V8 engine to date, a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter powerhouse that boasts over 600 horsepower, ensuring an exhilarating drive without the complications of hybrid technology.

Upon entering the cabin, occupants are welcomed by an interior that reflects the luxury expected of BMW. The upscale two-tone leather adorns every surface, extending its opulence even to the cargo area. Illumination plays a significant role in the interior aesthetic, as highlighted strips trace the roof ridge inside, mirroring the exterior design while creating an ambiance of modern sophistication.

The Speedtop comfortably seats two, with a pair of leather-strapped storage compartments designed to secure tailor-made bags, allowing for practical use on long journeys. A third storage space cleverly concealed beneath the cargo floor underscores its utility, a thoughtful design by BMW’s plant team in Dingolfing.

In terms of exclusivity, BMW will produce 70 units of the Speedtop—20 more than the Skytop—making it a coveted addition to any collection. Although the pricing remains unannounced, anticipations suggest that it will surpass the M8 Coupe's starting price of €185,400 in Germany, affirming the notion that luxury comes at a price.

This model may very well signify the end of an era for the 8 Series, as BMW prepares to phase it out by 2026. The discontinuation of the M8 Coupe in the United States and the impending retirement of the Z4 adds a sense of closure to this chapter of BMW’s storied history. Yet with the successful launches of both the Skytop and now the Speedtop, there remains a glimmer of hope for future limited-run production models—an expectation that fuels excitement for the next Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in 2026.

The BMW Speedtop isn't simply a vehicle; it's a modern interpretation of elegant sportiness tailored for discerning drivers looking to escape the mundane. It's a reminder that while some concepts may fade, others emerge, ready to leave an indelible mark on the automotive landscape.