The BMW 850i has impressive power and engineering, which allow it to reach destinations quickly, making long drives more efficient and enjoyable. PHOTO | ROLAND D NASASIRA
When you look at the BMW 850i, it immediately brings to mind the sports cars featured in the Fast and Furious movie series or the Ferraris and Lamborghinis showcased in American rap music videos.
Inside, the car is designed with classic sports car features, including bucket seats that provide a secure and controlled driving experience.
The 2022 BMW 850i is known for its exceptional speed and performance, making it a standout in its class. If driven without speed limits or traffic checks, the BMW 850i could cover the 140km from Kampala to Masaka in a fraction of the time it would take most other vehicles.
Its impressive power and engineering allow it to reach destinations quickly, making long drives more efficient and enjoyable.
This is a hallmark of German-engineered vehicles, which are renowned for their performance and precision.
Engine
This exceptional performance is made possible by the car’s 4,400cc twin-turbocharged V8 engine. As with most vehicles, larger engine capacities typically translate to greater power, and the BMW 850i is no exception.
During a test drive on a Sunday afternoon on the Kampala Northern Bypass from the Namboole to the Kisaasi junctions, the eight-speed automatic transmission accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in just five seconds.
DOn a straight, open road with no sharp turns, it could achieve the same speed in even less time. As speed increased, the seatbelt tightened automatically, reinforcing safety.
Unlike most cars that feature the acronym "4WD" on their user manual, the BMW 850i has "X-Drive" engraved on the boot, signifying its four-wheel-drive capabilities. It can be driven in both automatic and manual modes.
Though the BMW 850i is not built for off-road adventures, it handles Kampala’s rough urban roads with ease, thanks to its adaptive suspension system, which ensures a smooth and comfortable ride.
The car’s low ground clearance can be adjusted at the press of a button to match that of a Toyota Mark X.
Additionally, the BMW 850i features a unique steering system that engages all four wheels. While most cars only steer with the front wheels, the 850i also turns the rear wheels slightly, improving manoeuvrability in tight spaces.
However, a downside is that its low ground clearance limits where you can comfortably drive, and its high maintenance demands can be a challenge.
DUpon accelerating past the Naalya junction, I could monitor my speed on the digitalised display, a feature visible only to the driver, as opposed to conventional circular speedometers.
The dashboard houses two screens; a 12-inch display for vehicle performance data and a 10-inch infotainment system.
For those who enjoy the sound of a roaring engine while accelerating, the BMW 850i delivers a deep, resonant exhaust note, courtesy of its dual-sided mufflers. The car’s maximum speed is capped at 260 km/h, though other versions can reach 280 km/h or even 300 km/h.
Service and maintenance
The BMW 850i is a rare vehicle in Uganda, making service and maintenance a key concern. While specialised BMW garages and mechanics are available, sourcing spare parts may require importing from Dubai or Europe for major repairs.
To preserve its condition, the car should not be used for daily commutes, which would accelerate wear and tear.
“Being a rare car, you need to service it at a reputable garage or dealership to maintain accurate service records. It is also advisable to refuel using high-octane fuel of the best quality. This is not a car you refuel with Shs20,000 at a local fuel station and expect optimal engine longevity,” says Sharif Takiwereza, a German car dealer.
Safety features
In addition to standard airbags, the BMW 850i comes with a range of advanced safety features. These include cruise control, active lane-keeping assist, and lane departure warning, which alerts the driver if they unintentionally drift out of their lane or attempt an unsafe overtaking manoeuvre.
The vehicle also offers blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera that provides a complete visual feed of the surroundings.
Additionally, the car is equipped with night vision technology, allowing it to detect pedestrians or road users who may be difficult to see.
Using infrared sensors, the BMW 850i can autonomously apply brakes and come to a complete stop to prevent collisions.
SAFETY, DRIVER ASSISTANCE FEATURES
The 2025 8-series offers a host of driver-assistance technology, including a semi-autonomous driving mode. For more information about the eight-series’ crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: • Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking. • Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology
