BMW’s stunning Skytop concept could become a reality
The Skytop concept is arguably the best-looking BMW in recent years – and the German carmaker has teased it could enter limited production if enough wealthy customers show their interest.
Revealed at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on the shores of Lake Como, the Skytop is a BMW M8-based targa-top convertible harking back to the 503 of the late 1950s and the Z8 from the 1990s-2000s.
It seems there’s more Z8 inspiration in its shape, and it’s the 25-year-old roadster which BMW references most when considering putting the Skytop into production.
BMW Group Design boss Adrian van Hooydonk told Automotive News that high prices for used Z8s could lead to a production run of 20 to 25 examples of the Skytop, however it has for now only been designed as a concept.
The German marque had previously teased the possibility of its Z4-based Concept Touring Coupe becoming a limited production model, though this never eventuated.
The Skytop concept wears a bespoke body most notably features a more palatable kidney grille than we’ve come to expect from BMW. Its smooth lines continue all the way to the rear with a gentle ducktail spoiler.
Inside there are only two seats, sitting below a targa top roof and in front of a retractable rear window, as the cabin is generously upholstered in dark red leather.
Benefitting from the M8 Competition Cabriolet’s underpinnings means there’s a twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 engine under the bonnet, producing 460kW of power and 750Nm of torque, driving all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
While Automotive News speculates production could start in late 2025 or late 2026, we’re not yet holding our breath to see the Skytop on public roads.
Do you think BMW should make the Skytop in limited numbers? Let us know below.
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