BMW’s flagship’s latest avatar has been revealed, along with its specifications. We’ve got a few facts and images for you.
The engines are all-new – the 750i gets a 407bhp twin-turbo V8; the 740i, a 326bhp twin-turbo straight six, and the 730d, which will definitely be the best-seller here, a 245bhp straight-six diesel with third-generation common-rail technology. Both petrols get direct injection. The claimed 0-100kph time for each of the models is as follows: 750Li, 5.3sec; 740Li, 6.0sec and 730d, 7.2sec. BMW is also actively pursuing lighter weight to cut down emissions – an enormous amount of aluminum goes into each new 7-series saloon, whose roof, doors, bonnet, side panels, final drive housing, and crankcase are all made of aluminium. The rear axles are also made largely of aluminium.
BMW also claims a world first with its optional Integral Active Steering. World first for BMW it may be, but enthusiasts and anoraks will point out that the Nissan Skyline GTS coupes ran the HICAS all-wheel steering system that steered the rear wheels in the same way that the new 7-series does, back in 1986. The only difference is that the Skyline’s rear wheels steered up to one degree, the Beemer’s rear wheels manage three degrees. At low speeds, the rear wheels turn opposite to the front wheels, reducing turning diameter by up to 70cm. At high speeds, they turn in the direction of the front wheels to aid stability.
The list for safety and comfort is endless: Cruise control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Warning, Head-up Display, High-Beam Assistant, Night Vision with detection of individual persons, side view, back-up camera, Crash-activated headrests, two-stage brake lights that glow much brighter, (they also flash and activate the hazard warning lights once the car has stopped) when the brakes are applied with force and the ABS is activated, optional Adaptive Headlights that change their range depending on speed, and see around corners – they’re all on the list.
The best yet quirkiest feature, is the owner's manual being on the integrated hard-drive, so you can acquaint yourself with the car using the car's iDrive. The S-Class has some serious competition, as does the A8. The looks may divide opinion, but everyone will certainly agree that the new 7-series is a firm step forward for BMW.
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