Following numerous teasers, BMW has officially revealed the new 7-series which combines ‘unbeatable driving pleasure and long-distance comfort in a sedan’. The new 7-Series is up to 130 kg lighter than its predecessor.

Technology Fest

The new BMW 7-Series features a host of technological advancements which contribute to improved dynamics, efficiency, comfort and safety. Some notable features include optional Laserlight headlights which are also used on the BMW i8 and Remote Control Parking.

In terms of comfort, the BMW 7-Series is well sorted with the Executive Lounge Package which includes automatic air conditioning with 4-zone control, electrically adjustable seats with massage function and ventilation. With the optional Executive Lounge Seating, passengers can literally lie horizontally as the seat moves 90 mm forward. A Sky Lounge Panorama glass roof and Welcome Light carpet add to the ambiance in the car. There’s also a smartphone charging station as well as a a 7-inch tablet computer which gives passengers control over the infotainment system. The driver has access to the latest iDrive system via a touch display with gesture control and Touch Command.

Ambiance is enhanced thanks to a Sky Lounge Panorama glass roof in long wheelbase versions which can mimic a starry sky using LED modules. With the Ambient light option, a Welcome Light Carpet provides lighting around the doors while light is also provided from light sourced in the B-pillar. Sound lovers will get aural pleasure via a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound system, which has been specially tuned for the new 7 Series.

BMW 7-Series Engines

Buyers will have the choice of a number of engine variants in both short and long wheelbase format, all of which are mated to an 8-speed Steptronic transmission. First up is the 750i xDrive and 750Li xDrive which is powered by a 4.4-litre TwinPower Turbo V8 engine that offers 330 kW and 650 Nm of torque. It enables the model to accelerate from 0-100 kph in 4.4 seconds, before hitting a limited top speed of 250 kph.

The 740i and 740Li is powered by a 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder engine 240 kW and 450 Nm of torque. It runs from 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds with a top speed of 250 kph.

The 730d, 730Ld, 730d xDrive and 730Ld xDrive features a 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder diesel engine that produces 195 kW and 620 Nm of torque. 0-100 kph is achieved in 5.8 seconds before topping out at 250 kph.

The new BMW 740e, 740Le and 740Le xDrive plug-in hybrid is powered by a 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder petrol engine coupled with a 70 kW electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. Combined maximum output is at 240 kW which allows the car to accelerate from 0-100 kph in 5.5 seconds before claiming a top speed of 240kph. This model consumes 2.1 L/100km and can travel up to 40 km on electricity alone at speeds up to 120 kph.

Driving comfort is aided with an air suspension system with self-leveling and Dynamic Damper Control.The Driving Assistant Plus system now also includes steering and lane control assistant, lane keeping assist, active collision protection, rear collision prevention and crossing traffic warning. The driver can also select different driving modes to suit driving requirements, whether it be sporty handling, comfort or driving in ECO PRO mode. ADAPTIVE mode can also be selected using the Driving Experience Control which adjusts the car’s setting according to driving style and route characteristics.

The new BMW 7-Series can be expected in South Africa in January 2016. Stay tuned for further details.

BMW 7-Series Technology and Features Video