The new generation BMW 7-Series is similar in size to the outgoing version but gets lighter by 200 kgs with integration of carbon fibre in its construction and gets heavy on the features list.
BMW has finally brought down all covers from the sixth generation 7-Series (codenamed G12) globally revealing it today, ahead of its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show later this year. The epitome of the Munich based automaker’s engineering and luxurious prowess, BMW’s flagship saloon gets an evolved new design language sporting the large kidney grilles with Active Aero function, flanked by the new ‘Laserlight’ headlamps (same as the i8). The bumper gets a host of chrome detailing while the ORVMs get integrated turn indicators. The side profile looks sedate with the dash of chrome across the window surrounds. The rear sports the very classy tail light cluster, a well sculpted boot-lid with a chrome bar in the centre and new angular exhausts.
The 2016 BMW 7-Series is now lighter by 200 kgs (130 kgs if you opt for the 750i xDrive trim) courtesy of the use of carbon fibre in its construction coupled with steel, aluminium, magnesium and plastic. The company calls this ‘Carbon Core technology’. The sedan hasn’t changed drastically in dimensions and the Long Wheelbase (LWB) version measures 5238 mm in length, 1902 mm in width, 1479 mm in height and has a wheelbase measuring 3210 mm. The sedan’s exteriors aren’t dramatically different from the outgoing version and rather appear evolved, while taking cues from the BMW Vision Future Luxury Concept that was showcased last year.
Inside the cabin, the new generation BMW 7-Series comes with an overload of tech wizardry including the new digital and customisable iDrive 5.0 infotainment system and gets touchscreen technology and gesture control for the first time (control knob still remains). Covered in the best of leather and wood, the instrument cluster comes with 3D graphics that works in conjunction with a new HUD unit. The dashboard is well laden and the centre console now incorporates a smartphone holder.
You also get wireless phone charging, 7-inch removable tablet that allows the owner to control the functions of the car and an ‘Ambient Air’ package that releases scents within the cabin. Then, there are also the little pleasures like rear seats with massage and ventilation, heated door and centre armrests on the new 7-Series. The aural needs are fulfilled by the 1400 Watt Bowers & Wilkins audio system with 16 speakers.
The ride quality has been further improved thanks to the now standard air suspension at the front and rear along with electronically controlled dampers and optional active anti-roll bars. The driver can also raise the height on the 7-Series up to 0.8-inches and is automatically lowered by 0.4-inches when you put the car in Sport mode. There is also the new ‘Road Preview’ predictive adaptive suspension which uses cameras to scan the road surface and adjust the suspension accordingly. A neat trick is the ‘Remote Control Parking’ that lets the driver manoeuvre the car without having to get behind the wheel.
International engine options include the 4.4-litre V8 turbo petrol with 445 HP for the 750i and the 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo petrol with 320 HP for the 740i. Diesel performance will come from the 3.0-litre turbo in-line, six-cylinder with 265 PS for the 730Ld variant. BMW further stated that there will also be a 740e xDrive plug-in hybrid variant with power coming from the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol motor coupled with an electric motor that will be able to run up to 37 kms on battery power alone with max speed of 121 km/hr. All engines come paired to the 8-speed automatic transmission as standard.
BMW will commence production of the new 7-Series from 1st July at the Dingolfing plant in Europe while sales are scheduled to commence across Europe from October onward. The flagship BMW will be heading to the Indian market in early 2016 with a possible showcase at the Auto Expo and will continue to be brought in via the CKD route, being assembled at the manufacturer’s facility in Chennai with 50 percent localisation.
