BMW 7-Series (740i, 750i, 760Li)BMW 7-Series (740i, 750i, 760Li)bmwIt's under the hood that the most changes took place, with BMW bringing its eight-speed automatic to the range in favor of the six-speed unit of the previous-generation car. All models also get a start-stop system in the interest of fuel economy savings.
Powertrain Options
The 7-Series can be had with three separate powertrains in North America, not counting the ActiveHybrid7. Up first is the 740i that trades in the twin-turbo N54 for a single, twin-scroll turbo-equipped inline-six carrying the N55 moniker. Apart from this key difference, the 3.0-liter displacement and power output remain unchanged, at 315 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Better fuel efficiency is also promised here, with the European test cycle netting 20 percent improvements. The long-wheelbase 740Li gets the option of BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system for the first time as well.
The 7-Series can be had with three separate powertrains in North America, not counting the ActiveHybrid7. Up first is the 740i that trades in the twin-turbo N54 for a single, twin-scroll turbo-equipped inline-six carrying the N55 moniker. Apart from this key difference, the 3.0-liter displacement and power output remain unchanged, at 315 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Better fuel efficiency is also promised here, with the European test cycle netting 20 percent improvements. The long-wheelbase 740Li gets the option of BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system for the first time as well.
Over in the next-rung-up 750i, the twin-turbo, 4.4-liter V8 gets 45 more ponies and 30 more lb-ft for totals of 445 and 480, respectively. The power increase was largely thanks to BMW'sBMW 7-Series (740i, 750i, 760Li)Valvetronic variable valve timing system. Performance was increased, as was fuel economy, though official numbers aren't yet available. In European testing, the enhanced V8 saw gains of 25 percent, however.
At the top of the heap is the 760Li, whose twin-turbo, 6.0-liter V12 carries over unchanged. This means 535 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque.
A hybrid-like Brake Energy Regeneration system is also included in all new 7s.
High-Tech Showcase
Making a world debut, BMW said, is the standard Dynamic Damper System. It is promised to electronically control the damping rates of each corner individually based on road type and driving style.
Making a world debut, BMW said, is the standard Dynamic Damper System. It is promised to electronically control the damping rates of each corner individually based on road type and driving style.
At the same time, the new 7s sport a system called Driving Dynamics Control that lets drivers fine-tune multiple systems to their individual tastes, allowing changes to such parameters as engine response, power steering feedback, stability control intervention levels, and more. There are five presets, including Eco Pro that optimizes vehicle systems such as the air conditioner and heating system to eke out the best fuel economy. Even driving styles are suggested by the setting to get the most miles out of a gallon. The mode will also disengage the engine from the driveline when coasting to save fuel at speeds between 30 and 100mph.
Interior Improvements
Inside, the seats have slimmed down in the interest of better long-distance comfort. The color of the new ambient lights can be changed as wished, and the navigation system brings improved, 3D graphics thanks to a 1.3GHz processor and dedicated graphics processor. A new feature allows drivers to dictate and send e-mails or texts using nothing but their voice.
Inside, the seats have slimmed down in the interest of better long-distance comfort. The color of the new ambient lights can be changed as wished, and the navigation system brings improved, 3D graphics thanks to a 1.3GHz processor and dedicated graphics processor. A new feature allows drivers to dictate and send e-mails or texts using nothing but their voice.
The Active Cruise Control system received a front-mounted camera for better reaction speeds. The system can even fully stop the vehicle on its own and accelerate away again when the traffic in front does so as well.
Optional Goodies
The options list will include new Ivory White and Veneto Beige colors for the Dakota and Nappa leather, while multifunction seats can be ordered in place of the standard units. A new Rear Seat Entertainment Package brings an iDrive controller and a pair of 9.2-inch screens that 'float' above the backs of the front seats.
The options list will include new Ivory White and Veneto Beige colors for the Dakota and Nappa leather, while multifunction seats can be ordered in place of the standard units. A new Rear Seat Entertainment Package brings an iDrive controller and a pair of 9.2-inch screens that 'float' above the backs of the front seats.
The new Bang & Olufsen audio system brings with it 16 individually-amplified speakers, including two bass drivers, seven mid-range speakers, and seven tweeters.
