Leaked promotional footage has given us an early look at the brand-new BMW Skytop concept, a luxury two-seat, targa-top roadster with styling that looks to both the past and possibly the future of the German giant.
BMW intended to unveil the striking concept later this week at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Italy, but an official unveil video displaying the car from all angles has surfaced online.
It appears the Skytop is an opulent cruiser based on the 8 Series, suggesting the concept could foreshadow a new generation of BMW’s grand tourer, or even a significant facelift of the current car.
Alternatively, this could simply be a one-off show car.
Substantial dimensions are a clear giveaway that we’re dealing with a big car, including a long bonnet and expansive rear end.
Unlike the latest 8 Series, the Skytop only seats two people, linking it to the recent Z4 and Z3, as well as the low-volume Z8 with which it shares some design cues.
The lack of blue outlining on the BMW roundel suggests the Skytop will be powered by an internal-combustion engine, and not a plug-in hybrid or electric powertrain.
The front end also features a trademark slim BMW kidney grille flanked by thin strip headlights. There are large air intakes on the front bumper, but the overall look is more subtle than many recent BMW products.
Moving around the vehicle, the Skytop rides on turbine-style wheels and boasts sharp body lines, while the removable targa roof is a focal point.
Further back, thin horizontal tail lights mirror the similarly shaped headlights, and a ducktail spoiler protrudes from the boot lid. Dual oval exhaust tips sit flush with the rear bumper.
Inside, the Skytop bears a striking resemblance to the 8 Series it’s likely based on, although it has an even more upmarket look with gold accents, crystal trim pieces and plenty of reddish-brown leather.
The Skytop appears production-ready, as it’s kitted out with the current BMW iDrive infotainment system, regular wing mirrors, a rear-view mirror, and a tow hook cap in the front bumper.
More details will undoubtedly come to light when the concept is displayed alongside an M Hybrid Art Car at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este classic car show between May 24 and 26.
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