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The rear end of the car is sure to draw criticism, just as the previous generation did, but overall the new model displays a much more elegant design than its predecessor. While the exterior changes appear to have been kept to a minimum, there are rumored to be a raft of significant changes underneath the sheet-metal, including a longer wheelbase and wider track, plus a range of new engine options including a hybrid version.
The range topping model is a new 750i and its 750Li extended wheelbase cousin, both of which are powered by a 400hp (298kW) 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine with 450lbs-ft (610Nm) of torque. The only transmission available is a six-speed automatic, however BMW is expected to add a new eight-speed unit further down the track.
The 740i name returns, but is powered the award-winning 3.0L straight-six turbo engine instead of the former's V8 and delivers 326hp (243kW). In European markets there’s also a 730d turbodiesel with a 3.0L force-fed oil-burner churning out 245hp (183kW).
Performance is also improved through the extensive use of lighter multi-phase and hot-rolled steels in the body and chassis load-bearing structures, as well as aluminum for the roof, doors, hood and front fenders, plus on the front spring towers, engine block and differential housing.
An entirely new suspension system also features in the new 7-series. The design consists of a multi-link double-wishbone front suspension combined with a new ‘Integral V’ rear set-up. Self-leveling air suspension is also available. Rack-and-pinion steering with variable ratio and hydraulic power assist continues, but with a new-type hydraulic pump that delivers assist only when called for, thereby saving fuel. One key feature is the debut of BMW’s latest active steering system for the rear wheels.
The suspension system features further development of BMW’s active damper control system, which allows the driver to choose between four settings for shock-absorber firmness, transmission shift characteristics, engine-throttle response and power-steering assist.
The latest 7-series also picks up a new E-Shift gear selector located on the center console instead of the previous car’s steering column unit. Changing gears is done by tipping the E-Shift from side to side, while Park is engaged by a button atop the lever.
The car also debuts BMW’s second-generation iDrive system, which comes with a larger display monitor and a new menu and control system. Other new details include buttons for direct selection of the radio, CD, navigation and telecommunications menus, grouped conveniently next to the controller.
Advanced safety features include an active blind spot detection system and a new night vision set-up with pedestrian detection features. An optional adaptive cruise control system is also available, which can move the car automatically in stop and go traffic.
The blind spot system will vibrate the steering wheel and flash an LED on the exterior mirror upon initiating a lane change when there is an unseen vehicle in the blind spot or when there is a vehicle quickly approaching. The new system works in conjunction with BMW’s previous lane departure warning system, which also vibrates the steering wheel.
Finally, there is also a high beam assist, which automatically dims the headlights for oncoming traffic.
The new 7-series will make its world debut at the Paris Motor Show in October before going on sale by the end of the year.
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raptor Posted: 7/3/2008 8:09am PDT
Dann Posted: 7/3/2008 8:17am PDT
Cirquo Posted: 7/3/2008 8:53am PDT
dante Posted: 7/3/2008 10:01am PDT
lackar Posted: 7/3/2008 10:15am PDT
BAUMM III Posted: 7/3/2008 10:33am PDT
Brad Posted: 7/3/2008 10:50am PDT
Gus Posted: 7/3/2008 10:53am PDT
Andrey Posted: 7/3/2008 11:10am PDT
Fan Posted: 7/3/2008 1:10pm PDT
The interior hasn't changed for close to 10 years, its definately time to update.
As said above, Audi's interior is more refined and better looking. Audi and Mercedes are really stepping up the game in their design studios.
However, BMW is focusing on deploying more models like the 1 series, the X1, the X6, and the 8 series. Thats where there focus and money is. BMW has a solid formula that is working for them, so I don't see an interior change anytime soon.
Adam Posted: 7/3/2008 6:43pm PDT
HECTOR Posted: 7/3/2008 7:42pm PDT
And let's face it, if BMD did away with the Bangle butt and the steering column mounted gearshifter it could only have improved upon the old one.
amac Posted: 7/3/2008 9:11pm PDT
str8up Posted: 7/3/2008 10:32pm PDT
str8up Posted: 7/3/2008 10:32pm PDT
BMWfan Posted: 7/4/2008 12:52am PDT
tonymos Posted: 7/4/2008 6:27am PDT
Dann Posted: 7/4/2008 6:44am PDT
http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/04/rumormill-2009-bmw-7-series-coming-july-7th/
"Two, twin-turbocharged engines will be available: a V12 and the V8 currently found in the X6"
sorry to post a link to another site just wanted to show my source...that would be an interesting car...imagine the V12 in the 6 series =O or if they bring out the CS in 2 door form
Dane Posted: 7/4/2008 10:24am PDT
Gus Posted: 7/4/2008 11:21am PDT
I am really dissapointed in the direction BMW is going. They were such a great company, there was not a single modle of thiers that wasn't highly desireable and totally cool.
Now the only one I would want right now is the 335i coupe and convertible. The 5 series is ugly front and rear, the 7 series is ugly in the rear (and the front now, too), the 3 series sedan looks like a Honda, and the 1 series looks like a girl. The X5 and X3 are nothing more than tall station wagons... They are all great cars technically, I'm sure, but you have to like to look at what you drive, no?
admin Posted: 7/4/2008 12:37pm PDT
What happened to the great design in the E39 5-series, E-46 3-series, or the 8-series? I've been really disappointed with their new designs and this is yet another poorly executed model. BMW has the highest paid designers in the business. What the hell are they thinking?
Fan Posted: 7/4/2008 1:12pm PDT
Its weird because the exterior doesn't look german at all. It looks more smooth and doesn't have the character that was shown in the concepts like the 8 series.
Axial6 Posted: 7/4/2008 3:17pm PDT
This is certainly an improvement, yet as another astutely pointed out, it is only so, for the current 7 is so bloody hideous. On my drive home, I spotted a current 7, and was amazied at how aged and irrelevant it really looked. It looks clumsy and cumbersome, with overly wrought lines. Honestly, MB and Audi are leading the way. MB has become almost flamboyant, whilst Audi leads the way with understated elegance. Although the current A4 is a bit too understated.
BMW and the Bangle led era is a disaster. I had a 1998 740i, that was a sharp looking beast. Switched to a 1999 A8, and then a 2004 A8. Currently driving a 2006 Range Rover Diesel.
lance Posted: 7/5/2008 9:35am PDT
justin Posted: 7/5/2008 5:45pm PDT
ally Posted: 7/6/2008 3:48am PDT
Uncia Posted: 7/7/2008 1:16am PDT
Oz Posted: 7/7/2008 6:04am PDT
Edward Posted: 7/7/2008 9:38am PDT
Gus Posted: 7/7/2008 10:37am PDT
Mike Posted: 7/7/2008 1:29pm PDT
brad Posted: 7/8/2008 1:58pm PDT
bob Posted: 7/8/2008 10:44pm PDT
haha Posted: 7/9/2008 2:28am PDT
germans are now copying the japanese in design and style!!
the uncanny resemblance of the back to the LEXUS LS is scary!
come on bmw, u cant have everyone acusing u of copying LEXUS now can you!?
(now let's watch the bmw lovers to argue this ! )
John Posted: 7/9/2008 12:20pm PDT
please Posted: 7/10/2008 9:47pm PDT
bmw is known and all european brands for that matter are prone to electrical,mechanical, and many other problems. Reliability of europeans vs japanese cant be questioned. Japanese win hands down. Now whether this is a pre planned obsolescence or breakage we'll never know. bmw is not called "the ultimate driving machine" b/c it's "known for its simple elegance and well built structure". I'ts called MARKETING john. BMW came up with that slogan, not by anyone else but themselve. stop and think before you post that makes you look like a fool.
peace
Peter Posted: 7/11/2008 6:11am PDT
John Posted: 7/11/2008 9:32am PDT
The only fool is you; go out and take a "man on the street" interview, and ask what car people would prefer if they could have their choice: a BMW or a Toyota....I think you know the answer, and it isn't "moving forward."
Furthermore, I don't think people would buy a $35,000-$112,000 dollar car if it "broke down" all the time.
BMW is known for its simple elegance, so you clearly never owned one, or any other luxury car for that matter.
Regarding BMW's ad campaign, you show again how foolish you are by your remarks; the company has produced a well built car for decades, commanding top dollar for their vehicles, so the self anointing: "the utimate driving machine" is pretty apropos (PS, that means relevant).
Lastly, let's not even talk about the prestige difference between German and Japanese cars...it would be a very short conversation.
I wish for you to have a life perserver, as you drown in a sea of ignorance.....
Peace right back at you.
John
john-tsk tsk Posted: 7/19/2008 1:14am PDT
Your ignorance shines through like an idiot holding a sign "Please teach me to read, sir".
John, what you describe is called, desirability. What I discussed is , reliability. I hope this is clear and you understand the difference. Go back and read again, maybe you wont look so stupid.
I give all the credit to BMW for their amazing marketing and pretty good performance vehicles to credit their status in the auto market. Afterall, they had over two decades head start. They better have a better market reputation.
Unfortunately, I dont fall into the population who believe that the more you pay, the better the car is. Your argument is flawed, period. argumentum ad populum, or argument to the public. You are trying to prove that a bmw is dependable, reliable because it costs alot of money and alot of people wont buy it if it breaks down. You are failing miserably.
I will stop as you probably dont understand half of what i said with your level of IQ/understanding/brain activity.
You FAIL miserably.
Peace
Wizards Lore Posted: 7/20/2008 11:30pm PDT
plain and simple this car isnt close to the style of the new S CLass and behind the Lexus LS.
They need to go back and design the car better. It also looks flimsy and not at alll you are getting the car you paid all the money for.
Also ADMIN - feel free to write a letter to BMW on this site. You can also prpomote my idea for the different colour propellor badges for their different ranges. :)
Hotshut Posted: 7/30/2008 11:35am PDT
Mikle Posted: 7/30/2008 2:48pm PDT
Manuel Posted: 8/1/2008 1:47am PDT
Lexus......it is a very good car...perhaps more reliable than the others now.....it's the brand of the new rich or the better know (I wanna be)....people without any class ...just Esnobbish people....that's why its so popular in USA and now in UK..Lexus change their lines every 3 years ..so after that....what you have it's a old japanese car...Lexus is really a TOYOTA with leather seats...no more no less.
.
Dj Sims Posted: 8/26/2008 9:16pm PDT
Al Posted: 8/16/2009 9:22pm PDT
psp battery Posted: 12/21/2009 11:25pm PST
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