8/06/2008

BMW's all-new 7-Series Unveiled

BMW has finally taken the wraps off the fifth generation BMW 7-Series and the most striking thing about the car is just how conventional-looking it is. The previous 7-Series was the car that kicked off the Bangle revolution and while its boldness had to be admired it was a little wild for the tastes of the traditional 7-Series customer. Its extrovert detailing was subsequently toned down but even then it could never be called easy on the eye. The new car, on the other hand, is something of a looker with its delightfully taut proportions, elegant surfacing and excellent detailing. The wheels are pushed as far apart as possible to give the 7-Series that distinctive BMW profile, while the huge front kidney grilles announced the arrival of the all-new 7-Series in some style. The rear view is arguably the 7-Series' best angle but is it just me or is there a hint of Mercedes C-Class about the bodywork around the curvy rear lights?Like the exterior, the interior has also been carefully but conservatively updated. A more sophisticated (yet easier to use) version of iDrive is standard, with a bigger hi-res screen, a more intuitive control knob and the ability to surf the the internet (when it's stationary, of course). Thankfully, the the gear selector moves back from the stalk to the centrel console and the bashboard has more buttons than the outgoing model, presumably to take the work out of operating everyday functions and give it a more conventional and elegant overall appearance. The rear of the cabin is also updated, with more advanced infotainment systems, more room and more luxury options such as heated and cooled massage seats and rear DVD players.The bloated V12 of the 760i has been dropped in favour of a new flagship motor, the 407hp, 600Nm, direct-injection twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 which can propel the 750i to 100km/h in an hot-hatch spanking 5.2 seconds and on to a top speed limited to 250km/h. Fuel economy is pegged at 11.4 L/100km while its CO2 output is a very respectable 266g/km. The 3.0-litre, twin-turbo, straight-six engine from the 335i powers the 740i, and with 326hp and 450Nm of torque it's no slouch either. 0-100km/h takes a mere 5.9 seconds and top speed is again limited to 250km/h. Its average fuel consumption of 9.9L/100 km and CO2 output of 232g/km are impressive, almost good enough to see the 7-Series dip into VRT Band F. The 730d is powered by a 3.0-litre straight-six, variable-turbine turbo-diesel engine that produces 245hp and a stout 540Nm of torque. 0-100km/h takes a mere 7.2 seconds and top speed is 245km/h. With an average consumption of 7.2 L/100km it's the most sensible 7-Series of them all, while its CO2 output of 192g/km is only 1g/km shy of dipping into VRT Band E. All models come with an improved six-speed automatic transmission with manual override.The 7-Series is constructed using as much high-tensile, lightweight steel as possible and there's extensive use of aluminium, too, including in the doors, roof, wings, suspension and engines to ensure better efficiency and improved dynamics. The new 7-Series boast a new double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear set-up, while adaptive steering with speed-sensitive rear steer should ensure the 7-Series sets the dynamic standard for the class. Again. Adaptive dampers are standard on all models, while a "Dynamic Drive" button which alters suspension, steering, transmission, ESC and throttle characteristics (depending on the setting: Comfort, Normal, Sport). A rear air suspension is standard in the long-wheelbase 750Li and 740Li and adaptive cruise control that can drive the car in stop/go traffic; bi-xenon adaptive headlamps; a intelligent speed limit warning system; a lane departure warning system, Head-up-Display, a heat-sensitive "Night Vision" display and a reversing camera are amongst the optional features.

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