BMW’s M8 Gran Coupe pulled into view this week as a production car for the upcoming model year. The company’s new top-of-the-heap grand tourer displaces the 8 Series Gran Coupe, which appeared in early summer this year.

In contrast with the 8 Series Gran Coupe, a cursory look reveals that the M8 version boasts a bit more brevity in the nose and rear, and a more pronounced fastback shape. Headlamps are narrowed, and edges are more fluid. The M8 gets a bit more out of the 4.4L V8 biturbo, wringing 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque from the engine; the Competition package raises the horsepower to 617.

The M8 is perhaps BMW’s most capable long-range tourer, with additional cooling needed for competition driving or lengthy weekend jaunts. It also features an extensive series of lightweight parts, with abundant specially made carbon and aluminum components used.

All the M performance extravagance comes at a price, of course. The 8 Series Gran Coupe starts at ~$121K; the M8 Gran Coupe adds ten thousand to the base sticker. And collectors and enthusiasts will want to pay special attention to the First Edition offering, which will come in Aurora Diamond Green metallic paint with Gold Bronze accents, Y-spoke rims, and yellow laser lights. Production of the First Edition is limited to 400 examples worldwide, with 50 reaching U.S. shores.