Lake Como, Italy – BMW’s latest concept car, the Skytop, based on the M8 Cabrio Competition, stole the spotlight at the Villa d’Este Concourse on May 24. The two-seater GT, reminiscent of the iconic Z8, impressed attendees with its blend of style and innovation.
The Villa d’Este Concourse, an annual event held on the picturesque shores of Lake Como since 1929, showcases some of the world’s most luxurious and extravagant automobiles.
According to Autonews, the Concept Skytop, unveiled on May 27, is expected to be produced in a limited run of 20 to 25 units, with a market release slated for 2026. This information comes directly from BMW’s head of design.
A Classic Concept with a Modern Touch
Reviving the essence of the 1998 Z8 roadster and the 1956 2+2 503 coupe, the BMW Concept Skytop merges classic inspiration with contemporary design. This luxury open-top car features a removable roof and an integrated roll bar, presenting a one-off design that appears nearly ready for production. BMW hinted that if the concept garners positive feedback, it might enter mass production.
“The BMW Concept Skytop is a unique and exotic design. It offers a combination of dynamics and aesthetics at the highest level, comparable to its predecessors like the BMW Z8 or the BMW 503,” said Adrian van Hooydonk, BMW’s chief designer, during the car’s introduction to Autocar.
The Concept Skytop’s design pays homage to classic BMW grand tourers, boasting a long engine hood, a cabin set far back on a lengthy wheelbase, and a sloping trunk. Despite its traditional shape, the car’s design is firmly rooted in contemporary aesthetics, featuring smooth surfaces, elegant lines, advanced lighting, and brushed aluminum highlights.
Powerful Performance in a Modern Package
In contrast to the current trend towards electrification, the BMW Concept Skytop is powered by what the company describes as “the most powerful V8 engine in the BMW drivetrain portfolio.” This 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged unit, which powers BMW’s most potent M car, delivers up to 617 horsepower in its highest-performing version.
