The first reviews of the new BMW M850i are starting to filter out and it appears as though the marque has managed to develop a vehicle with driving dynamics to match its impressive looks.

Designed as a direct rival to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe, the new 8-Series was first previewed by a series of concepts and to our eyes, is one of the best looking vehicles on sale today. In M850i form, it has just the right combination of aggression and sharp angles complemented by flowing lines and some appealing curved surfaces.

Power for the M850i comes from the automaker’s latest twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 that’s pumping out 523 hp and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque from a low 1800 rpm. All of this power is sent to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive AWD system and a revised eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. The car can reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in a brisk 3.6 seconds.

For any sane person, the M850i offers more-than-enough performance. However, it won’t be the range-topping model. BMW is currently working on an M8 which will probably have the same engine as the latest M5 delivering 600 hp. Shortly after the M8 hits the market, an M8 Competition is tipped to launch, pumping out at least 617 hp.

Now, while the 8-Series is, like we said, a direct S-Class Coupe rival, BMW claims it’s the sportiest car it’s ever made and can compete with the likes of the Porsche 911 and Mercedes-AMG GT. Does it, though? Click and find out!