BMW in March confirmed plans to launch a model positioned above its 7-Series, a model that’s likely be a large, luxurious coupe reviving the 8-Series nameplate.

And the automaker recently made moves to protect trademarks that only increase the likelihood of a new 8-Series being in the works. The trademarks include “850”, “860”, “M850” and “M8”, hinting at V-8, V-12, M Performance and dedicated M options for the new 8-Series.

And with the 8-Series filling the large, luxury coupe—and likely convertible—role, Auto Express reports that the 6-Series will be transformed into a sports car for its next generation, finally providing BMW with a sports car offering to rival the iconic Porsche 911 as well as newcomers such as the Audi R8, Jaguar F-Type, Mercedes-AMG GT and potentially a new GranSport from Maserati.

2016 BMW 6-Series Convertible

The new 6-Series would be a smaller, more agile car than the current model, and offered in coupe and convertible bodystyles only. It means there would no longer be a 6-Series Gran Coupe although there could potentially be an 8-Series Gran Coupe to fill the void.

As for the platform for the new 6-Series, Auto Express reports that the sports car platform being developed by BMW and Toyota for their respective Z4 and Supra successors is a possibility. Meanwhile, the new 8-Series would almost certainly be based on the CLAR carbon fiber-infused modular platform that debuted in the 2016 7-Series.

Both the new 6-Series and 8-Series are reportedly due towards the end of the decade.

_______________________________________

Follow Motor Authority on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.