[Celebrity's Car Blog]

Update: Apparently, this is his old BMW 7-series.

It's a peculiar form of excess that doesn't see a standard 2009 BMW 7-Series as sufficient for transportation. Though appropriate for a Transporter-esque
showdown, being able to propel yourself to 60 MPH in a nearly 5,000-lb über sedan in just 4.5 seconds seems unnecessary. But when you have an autobahn in front of you and the money to spend, unnecessary doesn't really come into it.

The BMW 760i shares the same dimensions as the vanilla 7-series, making it the driver's choice. The 5.5-inch longer 760Li is the more appropriate choice if you're more likely to end up, Indonesian diplomat style, riding in back. The price may be steep but there's no shortage of features, so click on the next photo see the full details on what 1,360 Benjamin Franklins buy you in today's economy.

[BMW via BMWBlog]

The New BMW 760Li
Supreme motoring culture and luxurious comfort in perfection: The new BMW 760i and BMW 760Li twelve-cylinders mark the pinnacle of the fifth-generation BMW 7 Series. Superior powertrain technology, generous space and comfort, and unique features all round create an incomparable driving and travelling experience impressively confirming BMW's leading position in the global market of luxury performance cars. Two body variants and a wide range of customisation options provide a huge margin of freedom for enjoying the exclusivity of this twelve-cylinder luxury saloon in your own, very personal style. Together with the BMW 760i, the BMW 760Li with its wheelbase extended by 140 millimetres or 5.5" and particular emphasis on rear-seat comfort is also entering the market as the absolute climax in motoring luxury.
The newly developed V12 power unit with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, High Precision Injection and double-VANOS infinite camshaft adjustment delivers maximum output of 400 kW/544 hp from engine capacity of 6.0 litres and develops peak torque of 750 Newton-metres/553 lb-ft from just 1,500 rpm. A masterpiece in modern engine technology, the all-aluminium twelve-cylinder power unit stands out through its effortless surge of power, unique acoustic and vibration-damping qualities, and a level of efficiency never seen before in this performance class. Naturally, both the BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li comply in full with the EU 5 emission standard.
Both the BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li come with brand-new eight-speed transmission featured in these outstanding models for the first time. With its innovative gearset configuration, the new transmission offers additional gears while maintaining the dimensions and weight of a conventional six-speed automatic. This makes the eight-speed automatic transmission an ideal match for the power and performance characteristics of the new twelve-cylinder, bringing out the comfort and dynamic qualities of the V12 in particular style. And at the same time the new transmission enhances the all-round efficiency of the car to an even higher standard never seen before.
The BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li both represent the stylish presence, superior sportiness and precise elegance of the BMW 7 Series in particularly exclusive style. The outstanding highlights of these very special models include the extra-wide, slightly concave chrome frame as well as powerfully contoured bars in the BMW kidney grille, 19-inch light-alloy wheels, the V12 model designation on the chrome-plated gill elements, an additional chrome bar at the rear as well as twin tailpipes in rectangular design.
Detailed refinements add yet a further exclusive touch to the modern and luxurious interior ambience. The special features exclusive to these very special models include stainless-steel entry trim with an illuminated V12 model designation, the instrument panel finished in nappa leather and highlighted by elegant stitching, the roof lining and sun visors in alcantara as well as high-quality burr walnut interior trim of the most exclusive standard.
Offering generous freedom of space, the wide range of standard features as well as innovative comfort and entertainment options enhance the grand touring experience particularly on the rear seats. The BMW 760Li comes with individually adjustable single seats at the rear, kneeroom of 208 mm/8.2" and headroom of 988 mm/38.9" setting up new records even in this demanding segment. Standard equipment on both models features highlights such as four-zone automatic air conditioning, the BMW Professional navigation system, comfort seats, Park Distance Control and Automatic Soft Close on the doors. Additional enjoyment is added by optional features such as the multi-channel audio system, a DAB double tuner, a DVD system at the rear, an additional iDrive Controller serving to mastermind entertainment, telecommunication and navigation functions from the rear seats, active seat ventilation, massage seats as well as the contoured sliding roof optimised for excellent noise control and highly attractive design.
The BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li come as an option with the full range of features from BMW ConnectedDrive, including driver assistance systems such as Cruise Control with Stop & Go, a High-Beam Assistant, Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, BMW Night Vision with detection of individual persons, Side View and a back-up camera. Further features offered by BMW ConnectedDrive are BMW Online, BMW Assist, BMW TeleServices and unrestricted use of the internet in the car as well as the Extended Emergency Call function with automatic determination of the car's current location.
Suspension technology unique even in the luxury class gives both the BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li truly fascinating performance and, in particular, unparalleled comfort. Both models come with a double-wishbone front axle, the Integral-V rear axle exclusive to BMW, hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering with on-demand management of the power assistance pump and Servotronic. Significant features coming as standard are Dynamic Damping Control including Dynamic Drive Control as well as Dynamic Drive anti-roll stability. The BMW 760Li comes additionally with air suspension and self-levelling on the rear axle, and as an option, both models are available with Integral Active Steering.
Maximum occupant safety is guaranteed by the optimised structure of the body in conjunction with a wide range of passive safety systems interacting with one another and masterminded by electronic management. These include three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, frontal and side airbags, head airbags at the side, crash-activated headrests at the front, runflat tyres as well as a Tyre Defect Indicator. The BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li come as standard with bi-xenon dual headlights including a daytime lights function provided by corona rings as well as foglamps and Adaptive Brake Lights. Adaptive Headlights with a Bending Light function, variable light distribution and adaptive headlight range control are all available as options.
Model variants:
BMW 760i: V12 gasoline engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo and 
High Precision Injection 
Capacity: 5,972 cc, max output: 400 kW/544 hp at 5,250 rpm 
Max torque: 750 Nm/553 lb-ft from 1,500–5,000 rpm 
Acceleration 0–100 km/h in 4.6 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph) 
Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 12.9 litres/100 kilometres 
(21.9 mpg imp)
CO2 emissions to the EU standard: 299 g/km
Emission standard: EU 5

BMW 760Li: V12 gasoline engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo and High Precision Injection 
Capacity: 5,972 cc, max output: 400 kW/544 hp at 5,250 rpm 
Max torque: 750 Nm/553 lb-ft from 1,500–5,000 rpm 
Acceleration 0–100 km/h in 4.6 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph) 
Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 13.0 litres/100 kilometres 
(21.7 mpg imp)
CO2 emissions to the EU standard: 303 g/km
Emission standard: EU 5

Spied by a reader of MotorTips, this odd looking BMW 7-series was parked at a supermarket in a town roughly 100km outside of Munich, Germany. At first glance it appears as if this BMW 7 was merely modified by its owner with new quad-exhaust, bigger black-painted wheels and lower profile tires, but the badges appear to be covered in order to mask the cars identity. Upon closer inspection, it appears as if this suped-up seven may in fact be a early build prototype for an upcoming BMW M7 super sedan.

BMW has never officially mentioned an M version of its luxurious 7-Series sedan, but with the AMG-tuned Mercedes S63 and Audi S8 gobbling up sales, albeit in small numbers, it only makes sense that BMW gets into this game. Also adding pressure is Aston Martin's upcoming Rapide and Porsche's ghastly Panamera, two luxo-sport sedans that will surely be game changers.

[motortips via wcf]

BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid: The BMW of hybrids
As an integral part of the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, the BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid previews the potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology in a luxury sedan. In typical BMW fashion, this new concept car combines a significant reduction of fuel consumption and emissions with a level of driving dynamics never seen before even in this class of hybrid cars.

The BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid is an intelligent symbiosis of BMW's new twin-turbo V8 engine and electric drive as a mild hybrid concept. A compact electric motor, integrated into the transmission housing, replaces the conventional alternator as well as the starter. Power to run all electrics on-board the car is generated by means of Brake Energy Regeneration. The combination of internal combustion engine and electric motor take the twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8's already potent 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque and supplies an additional 20 horsepower and up to 155 lb-ft of torque as needed. The drivetrain technology featured in the concept car allows enhanced driving dynamics together with a reduction of fuel consumption and emissions by 15 percent in the EU test cycle compared to the same car running on a combustion engine alone. At the same time the use of BMW ActiveHybrid technology does not require any compromises in driving qualities and features of the BMW 7 Series.

Energy is stored in a compact lithium-ion battery housed in the luggage compartment. An Auto Start Stop function helps to ensure optimum efficiency in all driving situations.

The hybrid technology showcased in the BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid is perfectly suited to the new benchmark in the full-sized performance luxury sedan segment just as the two-mode hybrid technology used in the BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid, also on display in Los Angeles, is well matched to the world's first Sports Activity Coupe.

BMW 7 Series again sets the benchmark
The all-new fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series radiates a natural presence, inherent sportiness and an elegance born of precision in concept and execution. A new V-8 engine with direct injection and twin turbochargers expresses BMW EfficientDynamics at the highest level of performance. The 4.4-liter, twin-turbo V-8 delivers 400 hp and 450lb-ft of torque. New, exclusive BMW driver-assistance systems and comfort-related features further add to a truly exceptional driving and riding experience.

Inside the new 7, the ambiance is luxurious, of transcendent quality and - most important of all - inviting. The driver-oriented control center features Black Panel technology. More functions than ever are conveniently accessible to the driver from the multi-function steering wheel.

The new 7 is BMW's first passenger car with multi-link double-wishbone front suspension. The new Integral V rear suspension incorporates extensive use of aluminum. On the long wheelbase 750Li, self-leveling air suspension is standard. Also new, and a world premiere: Integral Active Steering, which adds speed-sensitive rear-wheel steering. With the standard Driving Dynamics Control, the driver can choose between four settings for shock-absorber firmness, transmission shift characteristics, engine-throttle response and power-steering assist.

An array of innovative driver-assistance options unique in the luxury segment includes Active Cruise Control with new stop-and-go capability, Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, Head-up Display, High Beam Assistant, BMW Night Vision with new Pedestrian Detection, Side View and Back-up Cameras.

All of this will make the new 7 once again the benchmark for performance, luxury, efficiency and safety when it arrives in the US in early 2009.

[Source: BMW]

XXXXXXX

2009 BMW 7-Series, Now With 400 hp Twin-Turbo V8

The next generation 7-Series has officially arrived, though if you've been paying attention you've already seen the 2009 BMW 7-series and now that the design team has gone to great effort to correct the awkward-looking rear quarters of the car. A new twin-turbocharged, direct-injection 4.4-liter V8 manages 400 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque, which should make the chauffeur happy. If you find yourself behind the wheel there's a plethora of technology to keep you from killing yourself including Active Cruise Control, Active Blind Spot Detection, BMW Night Vision and cameras on the side and rear of the luxo-yacht. The new 7-series is also the first BMW with a multi-link double-wishbone front suspension. It's something to think about on the way to the appointment with your increasingly distressed stock broker.

BMW 7 Series again sets the benchmark
The all-new fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series radiates a natural presence, inherent sportiness and an elegance born of precision in concept and execution. A new V-8 engine with direct injection and twin turbochargers expresses BMW EfficientDynamics at the highest level of performance. The 4.4-liter, twin-turbo V-8 delivers 400 hp and 450lb-ft of torque. New, exclusive BMW driver-assistance systems and comfort-related features further add to a truly exceptional driving and riding experience.

Inside the new 7, the ambiance is luxurious, of transcendent quality and - most important of all - inviting. The driver-oriented control center features Black Panel technology. More functions than ever are conveniently accessible to the driver from the multi-function steering wheel.

The new 7 is BMW's first passenger car with multi-link double-wishbone front suspension. The new Integral V rear suspension incorporates extensive use of aluminum. On the long wheelbase 750Li, self-leveling air suspension is standard. Also new, and a world premiere: Integral Active Steering, which adds speed-sensitive rear-wheel steering. With the standard Driving Dynamics Control, the driver can choose between four settings for shock-absorber firmness, transmission shift characteristics, engine-throttle response and power-steering assist.

An array of innovative driver-assistance options unique in the luxury segment includes Active Cruise Control with new stop-and-go capability, Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, Head-up Display, High Beam Assistant, BMW Night Vision with new Pedestrian Detection, Side View and Back-up Cameras.

All of this will make the new 7 once again the benchmark for performance, luxury, efficiency and safety when it arrives in the US in early 2009.

BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid: The BMW of hybrids
As an integral part of the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, the BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid previews the potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology in a luxury sedan. In typical BMW fashion, this new concept car combines a significant reduction of fuel consumption and emissions with a level of driving dynamics never seen before even in this class of hybrid cars.

The BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid is an intelligent symbiosis of BMW's new twin-turbo V8 engine and electric drive as a mild hybrid concept. A compact electric motor, integrated into the transmission housing, replaces the conventional alternator as well as the starter. Power to run all electrics on-board the car is generated by means of Brake Energy Regeneration. The combination of internal combustion engine and electric motor take the twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8's already potent 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque and supplies an additional 20 horsepower and up to 155 lb-ft of torque as needed. The drivetrain technology featured in the concept car allows enhanced driving dynamics together with a reduction of fuel consumption and emissions by 15 percent in the EU test cycle compared to the same car running on a combustion engine alone. At the same time the use of BMW ActiveHybrid technology does not require any compromises in driving qualities and features of the BMW 7 Series.

Energy is stored in a compact lithium-ion battery housed in the luggage compartment. An Auto Start Stop function helps to ensure optimum efficiency in all driving situations.

The hybrid technology showcased in the BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid is perfectly suited to the new benchmark in the full-sized performance luxury sedan segment just as the two-mode hybrid technology used in the BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid, also on display in Los Angeles, is well matched to the world's first Sports Activity Coupe.

BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all Z4 models and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles and the upcoming X6 Sport Activity Coupe. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 142 BMW motorcycle retailers, 83 MINI passenger car dealers, and 30 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

[Source: BMW Group]

BMW 7 Series again sets the benchmark
The all-new fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series radiates a natural presence, inherent sportiness and an elegance born of precision in concept and execution. A new V-8 engine with direct injection and twin turbochargers expresses BMW EfficientDynamics at the highest level of performance. The 4.4-liter, twin-turbo V-8 delivers 400 hp and 450lb-ft of torque. New, exclusive BMW driver-assistance systems and comfort-related features further add to a truly exceptional driving and riding experience.

Inside the new 7, the ambiance is luxurious, of transcendent quality and - most important of all - inviting. The driver-oriented control center features Black Panel technology. More functions than ever are conveniently accessible to the driver from the multi-function steering wheel.

The new 7 is BMW's first passenger car with multi-link double-wishbone front suspension. The new Integral V rear suspension incorporates extensive use of aluminum. On the long wheelbase 750Li, self-leveling air suspension is standard. Also new, and a world premiere: Integral Active Steering, which adds speed-sensitive rear-wheel steering. With the standard Driving Dynamics Control, the driver can choose between four settings for shock-absorber firmness, transmission shift characteristics, engine-throttle response and power-steering assist.

An array of innovative driver-assistance options unique in the luxury segment includes Active Cruise Control with new stop-and-go capability, Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, Head-up Display, High Beam Assistant, BMW Night Vision with new Pedestrian Detection, Side View and Back-up Cameras.

All of this will make the new 7 once again the benchmark for performance, luxury, efficiency and safety when it arrives in the US in early 2009.

Driving one of these things back in the 80s showed that you were serious. At $36,880 list (well over 75 grand- and climbing- in today's inflato-dollars), you could have bought nine brand-new Yugos and had enough left over for a couple of pretty clean used Datsun B210s. Tough decision!


Nowadays, these cars have depreciated down to about 2-3% of their original purchase price. Pretty good bang-for-buck, in terms of how much German engineering and sophistication you get for your money: a 182-horsepower six-cylinder engine, big brakes, leather, the works.

NM Limited-Edition 2009 BMW® Individual 7 Series Sedan

With complete freedom, designers and engineers create truly liberating driving experiences. That's exactly what happened with the all-new BMW flagship 7 Series. Looking for the ultimate in innovation, exhilaration, and luxury? We've got the sedan for you. The all-new BMW 7 Series has an '09 launch date, but you can own an incredibly rare edition of this Ultimate Driving Machine®: Our NM limited-edition 2009 BMW Individual 7 Series Sedan. Our exclusive NM cars have a history of selling out in minutes. Literally. To commemorate 31 years of the 7 Series in the USA, we've got just 31 available for purchase. So here's the deal.

The machine (that you will crave uncontrollably): A totally new 4.4 liter V-8 engine with twin turbo and high-precision direct injection that generates 400 horse power and can crank out 450 lb.-ft. of torque. An all-new suspension design that delivers unmatched handling, Dynamic Damping Control, Active Roll Stabilization, and all-new Integral Active Steering. Legendary BMW luxury including 20-way heated and ventilated front seats, premium sound system and entertainment server. Superior navigation with Real Time Traffic, voice activation, and Head-Up Display. Improved safety features with a more rigid chassis, run-flat tires, rear- and side-view cameras, active blind-spot detection system, and all-new Night Vision to detect pedestrians.

The NM luxe treatment (that only yours will have): This amazing machine has the absolute most premium amenities available on a BMW. The inside is furnished with our exquisite Champagne Merino leather and Alcantara® headliner. The outside finish: our exclusive, 31-autos-only iridescent Diopside Black; 19" alloy wheels; and illuminated Neiman Marcus entry sills.

The deal sealer (as if you needed one): A once-in-a-lifetime European adventure to meet your new BMW and the engineers and designers who helped create it. Our exclusive trip includes two business-class tickets on Lufthansa® from New York, gourmet meals, luxury hotel for four nights including Munich and the French Riviera, and rare insider access to BMW. The adventure is scheduled for April 2009, so there's plenty of time to clear your calendar.

The details (to get in on the best automotive experience of your life): Visit BMWUSA.com to learn more, then get ready to place your order by calling 1-866-303-2696 beginning at noon EDT on October 16, 2008. And start brushing up on your German.

[Neiman Marcus]

Acceleration: ***
The 360 HP from the 4.8-liter V8 certainly isn't disappointing, but you won't be wowed by it either. That's not to say anything bad about the engine, it's just the car it's been fitted to — weighing in at 4552 lb — is massive. Of course, this is all relatively speaking, because you still have more straight-line punch than any limo this side of a Presidential motorcade has a right to.

Braking: ***
Nothing you wouldn't expect here. The brakes work well, but then this is a huge car, so they'd better. Though our car had developed a bit of a squeal, it was probably from flipping so many tricks during its life as a press car.

Ride: ***
Compromising the ride for the sake of more involved handling would have been excusable in a standard-length 750i. But in the limoized 750Li, ride should take a bit more precedence. Perhaps my gripes would have been addressed if the car simply had thicker rubber on smaller wheels, but the suspension itself felt like it should have been more compliant.

Handling: ***
There's no doubt BMW knows how to make a car handle well. That said, trying to give it extra sporting credentials by fitting huge rims and low-profile tires seems rather silly. This is no sports sedan. It's a massive car from every angle, and you're really not going to be pitching its extended wheelbase sideways going around corners. That weight that you're constantly reminded of on tighter turns translates to a very planted sensation on high-speed expressway ramps. Just don’t mention low-speed corners — the gimmicky variable-ratio steering and long wheelbase combine to ruin those for the big 7-series.

Gearbox: **
The six-speed automatic transmission operates smoothly in normal mode, perfect for normal driving. Switch it to sport mode and it holds gears a bit longer and becomes a tad bit annoying. But whatever you do, please do not put the gearbox in manual mode unless you're in a completely confined area where nobody can see you make a fool out of yourself. Even after a week with the car, I was constantly upshifting when I wanted to downshift and downshifting when I wanted to upshift. Of course, that was after spending an entire afternoon looking for the downshift buttons on the back of the wheel in the first place...or were those the upshift buttons?

Audio: ****
As you'd expect from an optional $1800 "premium sound package," the audio system sounds quite nice. However, the price doesn't include the extra $600 you'll pay for Sirius, and the $350 for the HD radio tuner. There's also an auxiliary jack for your MP3 player. But despite all this, the car shows its age by having an obsession with CDs. There's an in-dash disc player, an additional pop-out CD changer, and a complicated disc holder that wastes space in the center console.

Toys: *****
Luxury used to be about keeping the occupants as calm as possible. Now, luxury has become synonymous with keeping everyone in the car as busy as possible. The 7-Series excels here. Obviously, there's the iDrive system, which by itself will keep you plenty busy. Then there's the $2200 night vision system, which is useless since it doesn't use a heads-up projection, instead displaying in the dash on the main screen. Combined with the $2400 active cruise control radar, which brakes for you in emergencies, you might be able to get away with just driving around with your HID lights turned off. The best toys on this car are the five power-operated sunshades for the back seat passengers. You get one for each side, a tiny one for each quarter window, and a big one for the rear. Of course, you've got your standard heated seats front and rear too.

Value: *
Cars like this suffer massive depreciation, so next to used examples just a year or two old, new ones simply don’t represent good value. With the all-new 2009 7-series just around the corner, if you really must have a new one, it probably makes sense to wait for that.

Overall: **
The 2008 7-series isn’t a bad car; you just know that BMW knows how to build something better. The range-topping model for the entire company, it should be the ultimate expression of everything BMW is capable of. Instead it represents everything that’s wrong in Bavaria. The company wanted to challenge its customers with this car, and it has, but it’s failed to offer them a reward for the effort they put in. The Ultimate Driving Machine should be all about reward, but here, it’s all about frustration.

Also See:
• 2008 BMW 750Li, Part One
• 2008 BMW 750Li, Part Three

As the 2010 Chevy Camaro Concept showed, there's a benefit to sticking to your styling guns (though, ironically, recent BMWs have been rolling refutations of that notion). We're especially taken with the extended, set-back cockpit design shown in the drawings. Hopefully, that design will translate into other models.

[Source: BMW]

THE NEW BMW 7 SERIES

* World's first Night Vision system with individual pedestrian recognition
* World's first production car with front side view camera
* First BMW Saloon with speed-related Integral Active Steering
* First BMW with Lane Change Warning
* BMW 7 Series to feature EfficientDynamics for class-leading CO2 emissions and fuel consumption

The launch of the fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series sets a new benchmark in automotive luxury, technical innovation and class-leading driving dynamics, combined with emissions reducing and fuel saving technology.

The flagship of the BMW model range debuts in November with a host of world firsts and will initially be offered with a choice of three powerplants, one diesel and two petrol engines. The two petrol-powered cars will be offered with a long-wheelbase body too. All three engines produce more power yet use less fuel and produce less emissions than the models they replace.
Model

Power
hp

Torque Nm

Zero - 62mph Seconds
0 - 62

Top Speed Mph

Combined
Mpg

CO2 Emissions g/km

BMW 730d

245

540

7.2

153

39.2

192

BMW 740i

326

450

5.9

155*

28.5

232

BMW 740Li

326

450

6.0

155*

28.2

235

BMW 750i

407

600

5.2

155*

24.8

266

BMW 750Li

407

600

5.3

155*

24.8

266

* Electronically-limited.

The BMW 730d sets a new benchmark in terms of drivetrain performance. The new all-aluminium 3.0-litre straight-six cylinder diesel engine produces 245hp at 4,000rpm. Its effortless real world driving smoothness comes courtesy of a peak torque figure of 540Nm attained from 1,750rpm through to 3,000rpm.

The 2,993cc powerplant posts the lowest ever CO2 figure of any previous BMW 7 Series and it is also the most economical 7 Series ever. Its 192g/km emission figure is class-leading for conventionally powered luxury cars, while no other competitor comes close to its 39.2mpg combined consumption figure. It can accelerate from zero to 62mph in 7.2 seconds and has a 153mph top speed.

To put the BMW 730d's competitive advantage in context this luxurious vehicle records near identical fuel consumption and CO2 emissions to the Mercedes C320CDi - a car that is two market segments below the 7 Series and is smaller and lighter than the BMW.

The impressive performance of the 730d is, in part, possible due to third-generation common-rail direct injection technology, incorporating piezo injectors, that operates at a peak pressure of 1,800 bar. This system ensures a near perfect combustion process. Weighing 185kgs the new six-cylinder diesel engine is also 5kgs lighter than its predecessor.

The BMW 730d is set to be the biggest seller in the UK, accounting for approximately 85 per cent of sales.

The BMW 750i and 750Li are the range flagships. The new 4,395cc V8 engine from the recently launched X6, featuring twin-turbochargers and high-precision direct injection technology, produces 407hp from 5,500rpm to 6,400rpm; impressive figures that are backed up by an equally stunning 600Nm of torque from 1,750rpm to 4,500rpm. Such breathtaking performance sees the BMW 750i accelerate from zero to 62mph in 5.2 seconds (5.3 seconds for the 750Li) before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Consumption on the combined cycle is 24.8mpg, while CO2 emissions equate to 266g/km.

The all-aluminium V8 engine powering the 750i and 750Li also features its own world first - twin-turbochargers and catalysts that are placed within the V-space of the engine block. This not only optimises packaging but the reduction in manifold length and larger cross sections mean the engine breathes better for enhanced performance. Double-VANOS variable valve technology and high-precision direct injection technology further aid engine performance to the degree that all the innovations combine to offer a V8 engine that has an equivalent output of a traditional 12-cylinder unit.

Aimed at customers who prefer the characteristics of a petrol-powered BMW six-cylinder engine, the BMW 740i and 740Li are also offered. Using an internationally-acclaimed 2,979cc powerplant, the BMW 740i musters 326hp and 450Nm of torque for rapid yet serene performance. The twin-turbocharged engine features high-precision direct injection and Double-VANOS variable valve technology to achieve optimum performance. The car accelerates from zero to 62mph in 5.9 seconds (6.0 seconds for the 740Li) before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. The 3.0-litre BMW 740i and 740Li post combined fuel consumption figures of 28.5mpg and 28.2mpg respectively, while returning emissions figures of 232g/km and 235g/km.

All BMW 7 Series models come with a six-speed automatic gearbox as standard.

EfficientDynamics
The launch of the new 7 Series means the entire BMW range now comes equipped with EfficientDynamics technologies as standard. With its roof, doors, bonnet and side panels all made from aluminium to dovetail with the principle of lightweight engineering, the BMW 7 Series also has other innovative class-leading technology which improves engine performance, while cutting fuel consumption and emissions.

Brake Energy Regeneration uses the engine's power on overrun, such as braking, to charge the battery for the car's electrical circuit. When the driver is accelerating the alternator disengages so all of the engine's power is channelled towards the car's performance. Other ancillaries, such as the air-conditioning compressor, are also able to disengage to improve the all round performance of the car. This intelligent use of drivetrain power is why EfficientDynamics technology has helped the 7 Series become a class-leader in terms of performance, fuel consumption and emissions.

World firsts
The BMW 7 Series' drivetrain superiority is reinforced with a plethora of automotive firsts. All 7 Series can now be specified with the world's first car available with a Side View camera system. In addition to Park Distance Control that aids slow speed manoeuvring, the front side view camera system provides another tier of driver awareness. With the touch of a button two forward facing cameras mounted in the front bumper can show an overview of traffic conditions on the iDrive display. This allows the driver to negotiate a partially obscured junction, leave a car park or drive through a narrow gate with absolute confidence.

The new BMW 7 Series can be specified with the world's most advanced Night Vision system in a production car. BMW was the first manufacturer to fit Night Vision to a premium car and it has now upgraded this package to include a pedestrian recognition system in another world first. A control unit analyses video data of human behaviour as part of the Night Vision camera's reach and can subsequently alert the driver if it detects a human is moving into the path of the vehicle.

Building on the impressive list of innovations, the 7 Series is the first BMW to feature Lane Change Warning combined with Lane Departure Warning. The latter is a system that first appeared on BMW 5 and 6 Series models and uses a camera to monitor road markings. Should the driver start to stray out of lane, a gentle vibration of the steering wheel provides an alert. However, courtesy of two radars located at either side of the rear bumper, Lane Change Warning adds another level of driver safety. The sensors constantly scan the blind spot either side of the vehicle, up to a distance of 60 metres, and alert the driver to the presence of another vehicle with a triangular symbol in the door mirror housing.

Cars that are specified with Head-up Display and Lane Departure Warning have the added driver benefit of a speed limit warning system. The camera used as part of the Lane Departure Warning system can now also scan oncoming road signs to alert the driver of any impending speed restriction. The current speed limit is then displayed in the Head-up Display. This is the first time a production car has been offered with a speed warning system that can read road signs.

Completing the host of innovations is speed-related Integral Active Steering. A car specified with this optional equipment allows the rear wheels to turn by up to 3º. At slow speeds it is highly manoeuvrable, while at a faster pace it offers enhanced composure and driving dynamics.

Tailormade driving dynamics
The latest generation BMW 7 Series is the first to have Drive Dynamic Control featuring Variable Damping Control as standard. Drive Dynamic Control is the umbrella function that lets a driver customise the characteristics of his or her car. As part of this Variable Damping Control can bet set in comfort, normal, sport, sport + modes. For the first time though these settings are infinitely variable depending on driving style and road surface condition. The selected mode now alters the throttle response, gear change speed and steering feel.

To aid driving dynamics and comfort the 7 Series is the first BMW Saloon to feature race car-like double-wishbone front suspension. This arrangement allows engineers to fine-tune the suspension for the best kinematic configuration. The rear suspension consists of a five-link arrangement made of aluminium which can be further optimised with the inclusion of Adaptive Air Suspension.

The BMW 7 Series comes as standard with Dynamic Stability Control + featuring additional functions such as Hill-Start Assistant, Brake Drying, Brake Pre-tensioning, Soft-stop and Brake Fade Compensation. Dynamic Traction Control can be activated via a button to enable spirited driving or greater traction of slippery surfaces such as snow and ice.

A new interior
The new BMW 7 Series comes with one of the most luxurious interiors of any premium car. In addition to a new iDrive controller and larger 10.2-inch screen, owners will be able to programme frequently selected radio stations or navigation destinations on favourite buttons located on the centre console. For the first time on a BMW the instrument cluster comprises a high-resolution colour display with Black Panel technology. This new style of display makes for greater character clarity and, when not in use, forms a smooth, homogenous black surface that gives the interior an added level of modern elegance.

The 7 Series is the first BMW to enable a customer to upload their favourite music to be stored on the vehicle courtesy of an 8Gb hard drive. In excess of 100 albums can be saved in this way for the driver's enjoyment. Four-zone automatic air-conditioning is fitted as standard while, for the first time, the 7 Series can have a rear seat ventilation system combined with massage function. The air-conditioning system feeds cool air to the seat squab and backrest, while 12 massage bubbles gently knead the occupants' upper body.

The BMW 7 Series comes with BMW ConnectedDrive. This facility features elements such as a dedicated call centre with a concierge service, automatic fault awareness and BMW Assist, the electronic safety net that automatically dials the emergency services in the event of an accident, free of charge for three years.

The BMW 7 Series goes on sale in the UK on 15 November, 2008. Prices will be announced in due course.

After a quick glance we can positively say that despite taking it on the chin for the styling on the current 7-series, it seems BMW has only decided to fix one end of the car. The front end finally looks balanced and although bland, it's at least attractive with the headlights from the CS concept we expected it to receive. The tail end? Well, that's been "blessed" with some really odd, droopy tail lights at the corners. Seems they want to make you look at its ass, even if the only thing you'll do is make fun of it.

Also notable is the new 7 will be abandoning the goofy, column mounted shifter in favor of a more traditional console shift, even if it does look weird. The car will also be getting BMW's internet system, no surprise there, with what appears to be back seat individual monitors which we bet will hook up to the net when the car is in motion. While i-Drive remains, it seems button creep is working it's way into the new 7's cockpit, just as it is for other cars in BMW's lineup. Also, we see faux chrome side vents are continuing their onslaught on our senses with the new 7-Series. Look to hear a lot more about the car very shortly.

Oh and by the way, it's now pretty obvious that "purported" leaked shot of the 2009 BMW 7-Series was more like an "actual" leaked shot. [BMW via WCF]

[via Pistonheads via JF @ FastLaneDaily]

The above photo, allegedly the 2009 BMW 7-Series, is making the rounds through the BMW fan forums. While the "photo" is both pretty and sporting some dashing, Honda Civic-inspired headlights, it's almost certainly fake. But just because it's a probably an example of p-shop fakery doesn't mean we can't still have some fun with it. So go ahead and help us dissect the shot by telling us why you think this pic doesn't pass muster in the comments below — and no, it's not a fake just because it's lacking the optional "Flowbee" package. [Bimmerfile via 4wheelsblog]

It looks like this BMW 7-series prototype has some plumbing issues. We don't know what to make of this test, which has yards of tubing emanating from the engine and apparently being routed to a collection device in the front seat. It looks like a Bavarian Shop Vac from hell, but we suspect there is something a bit more technologically advanced going on. Sadly, that's the extent of our knowledge on just what's being tested here. It might make for an ideal "Add Your Own Caption" story, however.