BMW is set to unveil its Skytop Concept in less than a week at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, but a video of the car has already leaked. In fact, some evidence suggests that BMW itself may have mistakenly published the video, which showcases every angle of this new drop-top before being taken down. Let’s take a deeper dive into the styling choices of one of the most beautiful BMWs in a long while. Based on the limited glimpse we get of the interior, the concept appears to be based around the current 8 Series platform, likely the convertible variant. However, it boasts a completely redesigned and unique exterior. Whether this is a one-off design study, similar to past BMW concepts, or a preview of a potential limited-production model or even a hint of future coupe design language, remains to be seen.
The long nose and face of the BMW are clearly designed to stand out and evoke classic models of the past. The front bumper features a sharp, almost shark-nose point at the tip, flanked by a pair of wide but tasteful kidney grilles with a trio of intakes beneath them. Additionally, two large vents are sculpted out of the hood itself, suggesting the presence of a gas-burning power plant under the bonnet. This is further supported by the presence of two oval exhaust pipes in the rear bumper.
The view from above the open-top model shows off a very cohesive design with a teardrop shape nestled into wide rear haunches. The line that divides the hood vents continues in the rear and gives this car a split-window boat-tail style that looks classy. Between those lines you’ll find a Hofmeister kink at the B-pillar, door handles integrated into the window sill, and stunning turbine wheels. Two removable roof panels make this a Targa top, presumably stored in the trunk. The cabin is adorned with deep red upholstery, showcasing exquisite attention to detail. Frankly, in my eyes, this is one of the most beautiful BMWs in several years.
Some details make this car appear as
though it could be closer to production than an everyday concept. As BMW Blog
points out, it has wing mirrors, a rearview mirror, and even a tow hook cap in
the front bumper. Hopefully, those are all indications that BMW is going to
move in this styling direction even if it doesn’t build these cars for the
public.
Interestingly, the video appears to have
popped onto Reddit today from BMW’s official account for a short time before
getting deleted by the same account. We’ll know more when the car arrives at
the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este between May 24 and 26. It’ll be at the
show with an M Hybrid Art Car as well as several historic classic cars.
