Daniel Barron
New 7 turning it up to 11
A sleek new 7-Series is being rolled out by BMW for 2009 and once again raises the bar for full-size luxury sedans. This fifth generation model will come in 750i and a longer wheelbase 750Li model, both of which will be powered by a new 4.4-litre twin turbocharged engine - the same one being used in the new BMW X6.
Other highlights include a 6-series automatic transmission, an entirely new suspension system, and several technologies new to the 7-Series including Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection and High Beam Assistance. High Beam Assist automatically turns off the high beams when an oncoming car is detected, and turns them back on once the car has passed.
The new-look 7-Series definitely sets itself apart visually from the previous generation model. It has new-look 'kidney grilles', front side panels that include a chromed 'gill' that integrates the side blinker, and a chrome band that connects the taillight clusters, which continue the L-shape that has become a BMW tradition.
BMW doesn't skimp anywhere, not even in the rear seats, where both left and right passengers will have their own climate controls. In addition, the long-wheelbase version not only adds more legroom for the rear passengers (140 mm.), it also provides more rear head room thanks to the model's own specific roofline. A special package available on the 7-Series also adds individual colour monitors to the back of the front seat headrests so the rear passengers can watch a DVD.
Driving dynamics are very much adjustable by the driver, from shock-absorber firmness and engine throttle response, to transmission shift characteristics, power-steering assist level and dynamic stability control mode.
An all-new (for BMW passenger cars) double wishbone front suspension is used in the 7-Series. It uses lightweight aluminum for links and other components, to help enhance the suspension's response and riding comfort over rough surfaces.
In terms of safety, the 7-Series makes use of the usual array of airbags (front and side impact airbags, front/rear head protection airbags, active head restraints on the front seats and knee airbags), but it also uses adaptive brakelights, whose lighting intensity increases the harder the driver brakes, warning vehicles driving behind the car. Once again the 7-Series uses night vision with infrared sensors, allowing the driver to see at night at lengths of up to 488 meters over a 36-degree-wide range.
The new twin turbo V8 develops 400-horsepower over a range from 5500 to 6400 rpm and 450 lb-ft. of torque over a range of 1750-4500 rpm. Quite the numbers, especially when considering the previous 7-Series' 6.0-liter V-12 develops 438-horsepower and 444 lb-ft. of torque.
pictures
(photos from autonet.ca)
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