BMW previews V12 super-coupe

BMW doesn't make an 8-Series at the moment, but if it did, it might look something like this. This is the BMW Pininfarina ‘Gran Lusso Coupe', set to be unveiled at Villa d'Este later this month.

Bit difficult to make anything out, isn't it? It's a collaboration with Pininfarina, following on from last year's rather delectable Zagato Coupe (a rebodied Z4). You'll notice a very sleek profile; BMW assures us the Gran Lusso Coupe benefits from ‘generous surface design', ‘taut contours', a long wheelbase, stretched bonnet, short overhangs and a ‘set-back' greenhouse with a sloping roofline.

Inside, we're promised more exclusivity, comfort, some sportiness and the ‘classical BMW driver focus'. One thing that will help bring out this focus is the promise of a V12: no word on power, but BMW's current 6.0-litre V12 doing fine service in the 7 Series pumps out a not-inconsiderable 544bhp, 553lb ft of torque and a 0-62mph time (in a 2,250kg car) of 4.6 seconds. If the Gran Lusso offers similar weight/power, expect progress in it to be ‘swift'.

Says BMW: "The close collaboration with the Pininfarina design team has lead to a new automotive personality brimming with character and ready to join the high-end luxury class." We'll bring you full details when the car launches on 24 May. Reckon it's time for the Return of the 8 Series? And should Pininfarina be involved in the production version? They've got serious pedigree: Ferrari F12, 458, Enzo, F40, Maserati GT and Quattroporte... even the humble Peugeot 306.

Vijay Pattni