Here are a couple more comparison shots. I think the difference looks massive especially with my male characters. Anyone else have comparison shots?

I think so too! I definitely think the render engine has been improved. Or at least how lighting works which makes things look better.

I did some side-by-side tests of iClone 7 and 8 today, and noticed that the characters look sooooo much better in the viewport.  Is there a new renderer in iClone 8, or is there something else going on?