BMW’s fastest ever road-legal car, the M8 Coupe Competition, thrilled journalists and put plenty of smiles on their faces at the Portimao circuit, in Portugal, during the media launch.

With all settings sharpened up, the Germans claim that it needs as little as 3.2 seconds for the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint. However, as it was recently pointed out during the press event, the M8 Competition is even quicker, with the dials revealing a whopping 2.88 seconds from nought to 100 km/h (0-62 mph).

Also Read: BMW M8 Competition Vs. M6 Competition Pack; Is This What Progress Feels Like?

The sub 3-second zone is reserved for the planet’s most exclusive machines, and while it cannot officially be confirmed, it’s still mind-blowing. As for the engine responsible for producing 625 PS (616 hp / 460 kW) and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque, it’s the 4.4-liter, twin-turbo V8 from the M5. It’s hooked up to an 8-speed automatic transmission and clever all-wheel drive system that provides huge amounts of traction, making it hard to oversteer the car.

At almost 2 tons (~4,400 lbs), the M8 Competition is a super-fast yet luxurious GT, designed for speedy intercontinental cruising. Thus, it may not be as engaging as some might expect and, according to AutoExpress’ review down below, the gearbox is not that snappy either and the exhaust notes could have been a tad more aggressive. Still, it’s great to drive on such a wide track as the Portimao, and it should feel even sharper out on public roads.

The real world reviews are about to come out, so until then let’s see if the car puts the M in M8 and if it’s truly as great as everyone expected it to be.