Autoblog

Detroit Preview: 2011 BMW 740 brings six-cylinder power back to the 7

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Sedan, BMW, Luxury

2011 BMW 740i - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the latest generation of BMW's big 7 Series went on sale in the U.S. early this year, buyers had a choice of either the marvelous twin-turbocharged and direct-injected 400-hp 4.4-liter V8 or the supremely impressive twin-turbo, 535-hp V12. A hybrid version of the 7 also goes on sale here in a few months, still mated to the V8. Since day one, European drivers have also had a pair of six-cylinder options fueled by either gasoline or diesel. BMW still hasn't committed to a 7 Series diesel for the U.S., but today has confirmed will be getting the sweet gas-powered I-6.

The 740i and 740LI both come to the U.S. market in spring 2010 powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter six. In 740 trim, the six cranks out 315 hp and 330 pound-feet, up a bit from the 300/300 ratings in the smaller 335i. The 740 engine does retain the direct injection and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust. This new model also marks the U.S. debut of brake energy regeneration on a non-hybrid BMW. Interestingly, BMW has opted to retain the 7's 6-speed automatic transmission rather than upgrading to the new 8-speed found in the hybrid and the new 5 Series.

Gallery: 2011 BMW 740i

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Detroit Preview: 2011 BMW 740 brings six-cylinder power back to the 7

Detroit Preview: 2011 BMW 740 brings six-cylinder power back to the 7 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Frankfurt 2009: BMW 7 Series Active Hybrid runs (almost) silent, runs deep

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 02:58:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Hybrid, Sedan, BMW, Luxury

2010 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

BMW isn't taking any chances with its reputation for dynamics with the 7 Series Active Hybrid. To its 449-hp and 479-lb-ft 4.4-liter twin turbo V8 heart it adds a 60-pound, 35-cell lithium-ion battery in the boot. The battery doesn't take too much away from the trunk since it replaces the rear-seat air-conditioning unit from the standard 7.

The battery boosts maximum torque to 516 lb-ft when everything is really humming, and that gets the huge-ish hybrid to 60 in 4.9 seconds rowing through the eight-speed automatic. The battery, a judicious foot, and hybrid stalwarts like brake energy regeneration can get you 25 mpg. Until Brad and Angelina finish with their Hydrogen 7, this is your best bet for a caring Bavarian luxo-barge.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: BMW 7 Series ActiveHybrid

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: BMW 7 Series Active Hybrid runs (almost) silent, runs deep

Frankfurt 2009: BMW 7 Series Active Hybrid runs (almost) silent, runs deep originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 02:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

BMW announces 7 Series xDrive and M Sport models

Michael Harley — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Europe, BMW

2010 BMW 7 Series M Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW introduced its first all-wheel drive 3 Series in the mid-80's, with an all-wheel drive variant of the 5 Series arriving on the scene several years later. Today, BMW has announced that its range-topping full-size 2010 7 Series sedan will finally get the automaker's all-wheel drive "xDrive" treatment. Designed with a rear torque bias to maintain rear-wheel drive handling characteristics, the all-season traction will be available on the turbocharged eight-cylinder models initially, as BMW has not announced any plans to adapt it to the V12-powered 760Li flagship. The standard model will be called the "750i xDrive" while the long-wheelbase model carries "750Li xDrive" nomenclature.

The Bimmer boys also announced the availability of the "M Sport Package" for all 7 Series models. The package includes lift-reducing aerodynamic cladding, shadowline trim, Active Roll Stabilization (RWD only), anthracite headliner, and 19-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance rubber. If that isn't enough, BMW is also offering special Carbon Black Metallic exterior paint and 20-inch wheels for the new 2010 7 Series M Sport models. Full press release after the jump.

Gallery: 2010 BMW 7 Series

Continue reading BMW announces 7 Series xDrive and M Sport models

BMW announces 7 Series xDrive and M Sport models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

BMW 7 Series M Sport images arrive on web

John Neff — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:57:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, BMW

BMW 7 Series M Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're not sure where they came from, but official-looking images of the upcoming BMW 7 Series M Sport just popped up on the interwebs today. The car you see here is identical to the one we saw in spy photos just a few weeks ago. Since the M6 will reportedly remain the brand's top dog in terms of big performance cars, the 7 Series M Sport will be to the standard 7 Series what all M Sport models are. That is, it gets more aggressive fascias front and rear, unique wheels, an M steering wheel, M shifter and M footrest. Rumor also has it that the 7 Series M Sport will be powered by the brand's newly updated 3.0-liter, twin-turbo diesel engine producing 306 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. No, it's still not an M7, but if you want a lightning quick 7 Series, you can go buy an Alpina B7 Biturbo for now.

Gallery: BMW 7 Series M Sport

[Source: Bimmerpost, BMWBlog]

BMW 7 Series M Sport images arrive on web originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Hamann does its thing to the new BMW 7 Series

Alex Nunez — Sun, 31 May 2009 18:03:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Sedan, Europe, BMW

Click above for a hi-res gallery of the new Hamann BMW 7 Series

The arrival of the new F01 BMW 7 Series means that aftermarket companies have a new toy upon which to apply their talents. Enter Hamann, the German tuner with a penchant for Lambo-dooring, among other things. Thankfully, the firm's workup of the all-new 7 Series leaves the factory door hinges intact, but that's about it. A new aero kit makes the big sedan less vanilla-looking with updated fascias, skirts and spoilers on both the rear decklid and roof. Naturally, a lowered suspension is offered, which, when combined with a selection of new wheels and the aforementioned bodywork, gives the über-Bimmer a nastier stance. Inside, Hamann will fully customize the cabin appointments to your taste, or lack thereof. The Hamann 7 Series isn't necessarily all show, either -- an available sport exhaust upgrade for the 730d bumps power by 45 horses for a total of 290. Hamann's unlikely to stop with this batch of initial offerings, so more extreme modifications are probably inevitable. Just resist that primal urge on the butterfly doors, okay guys?

Gallery: Hamann BMW 7 Series (F01)

[Source: Hamann]

Continue reading Hamann does its thing to the new BMW 7 Series

Hamann does its thing to the new BMW 7 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 31 May 2009 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

BMW to debut production hybrid 7 in Frankfurt?

Noah Joseph — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Hybrid, Sedan, Green, BMW

BMW 7-Series ActiveHybrid - Click above for a high-res image gallery

With BMW investing heavily in its Efficient Dynamics program, the next stage could be unveiled at its home-turf Frankfurt show this coming September. Reports out of France suggest that this is where the Bavarian automaker will unveil its 750Hi, a hybrid version of its latest 7-Series flagship sedan.

Previewed by the 7-Series ActiveHybrid concept in Paris last fall, Munich's assault on the recently revealed S400 Hybrid from arch-rival Mercedes-Benz and the Lexus LS600h is expected to pair an electric motor with its highly-rated 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, providing over 400 horsepower in the unassisted, gas-burning version. While there is no word on how big the electric motor will be, but if Mercedes' solution is anything to go by, look for something in the neighborhood of 20 horsepower, while the new eight-speed automatic that debuted on the new 760i in Shanghai could see duty in the production hybrid due to potential packaging benefits. If the reports emerge as genuine, we should have more for you over the course of the summer as more details emerge.

[Source: L'Automobile ]

BMW to debut production hybrid 7 in Frankfurt? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Apr 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Review: 2009 BMW 750i

Sam Abuelsamid — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: In the Autoblog Garage, Sedan, BMW, Reviews, Luxury

2009 BMW 750i - Click above for high-res image gallery

The BMW 7 Series and the Mercedes-Benz S-class are two vehicles utterly defined by their birthplace. Each was spawned in Southern Germany, where massive stretches of autobahn honed their ability to cover boundless distances at high velocities, cosseting occupants in Teutonic luxury. But they're decidedly different beasts. In spite of their similarities, the two brands have always had distinct personalities. BMW followed its tag-line of the "Ultimate Driving Machine," while Mercedes stuck to its more sober image, focusing on its "Best in German engineering" meme.

As so often happens, automakers feel compelled to grow and expand beyond traditional audiences, and at times, the result is a diluted product that strays from its roots. When everyone is attempting to cater to the broadest possible audience, overlap is inevitable and distinctions begin to disappear. Look no further than the American mid-size sedan segment, or in this case, the last generation 7-series. So for 2009, BMW sought to re-focus its uber-sedan on what it does best. Read on to find out if BMW succeeded or if the new 7 suffers from further dilution.

Gallery: Review: 2009 BMW 750i

Continue reading Review: 2009 BMW 750i

Review: 2009 BMW 750i originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Apr 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

First Drive: 2009 BMW 750Li

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, BMW, First Drive, Luxury

Click above for high-res gallery of the BMW 750Li

When the 2009 BMW 7 series was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show last fall, BMW's fifth-generation flagship had an anvil-sized burden to bear. Although the last 7 series was a milestone in the sales department, its design - which foisted Chris Bangle's influence onto an unsuspecting public - was all but universally panned when it was introduced in 2001. And if the exterior wasn't offensive enough (to some), BMW's newly-implemented iDrive system sent many reviewers and owners into unmitigated bouts of rage.

For 2009, BMW has sought to address the fourth generation's foibles while capitalizing on its strengths. And while nothing is more subjective than styling, control interfaces have a huge impact on the overall experience. Find out if BMW has succeeded on both fronts after the break.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 BMW 750Li

Continue reading First Drive: 2009 BMW 750Li

First Drive: 2009 BMW 750Li originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

V12 BMW 760i spied?

Noah Joseph — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 10:27:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, BMW

Although BMW's flagship 7 Series sedan has traditionally been available with twelve cylinders under the hood, the latest F01 chassis has so far been headlined by the company's twin-turbo V8. If these spy shots are anything to go by, however, the eight-cylinder turbo is about to get some company,

A more aggressive front end, different wheels and a taped-up V12 badge on the front fender are the give-aways of the new range-topping model, which could employ the carryover naturally aspirated unit or get a pair of turbos bolted on for good measure. However, reports differ over whether BMW will offer an M7 performance version to compete with Audi's S8 and Mercedes' S63 AMG in addition to the V12 model. In the meantime, BMW is expected to unveil the new 760i at the Shanghai Motor Show in a couple of months from now.

[Source: Carpassion Forums via World Car Fans]

V12 BMW 760i spied? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Jan 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Report: BMW finally green-lights 5-Series "Progressive Activity Sedan"

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 09:59:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Crossover, Hatchback, BMW, Rendered Speculation

Call it V5, 5-Series GT, 5-Series Fastback, Progressive Activity Sedan... call it what you will. Whatever moniker you give it, BMW has evidently crossed the Rubicon and there's no turning back. As expected based upon BMW's previously leaked roster of 2009 reveals, the 5-Series -based hatchback has been approved. Called "one of the bravest designs ever signed off by BMW," it is BMW's take on everything-all-the-time: a flexible, luxury GT.

Although it is being referred to as a 5-Series family member, the car is actually expected to arrive on the same platform as the 7 Series. As such, the PAS is coming off as the ultimate tweener car: longer than a 5-Series sedan, yet shorter than a 7-Series; taller than a 5-Series, yet shorter than an X6. Cost is expected to straddle the gap, too: it should cost more than a 5 Series but less than a 7-Series. One description offered was "more of a 'tall 7-Series hatchback than a low-rise X6."

At the very front, the PAS is said to take cues from the CS Concept. That nose treatment flows into a sedan-like lower body topped by an X6 greenhouse, rear hatch, and rear end treatment. Interior design cues will come from the new Z4, and a roomy, semi-raised cabin is promised. Possible engines for the car in Europe include the 3.0-liter turbo diesel, while a 3.0-liter gas could would come to the States.

[Source: Autocar]

Report: BMW finally green-lights 5-Series "Progressive Activity Sedan" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

BMW's 2009 unveiling schedule?

Jonathon Ramsey — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 11:29:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Coupe, Sedan, SUV, Geneva Motor Show, Tokyo Motor Show, Crossover, BMW, Mini, Rolls-Royce

BMW Blog has trained its spyglass on what it says is a list of BMW rollouts for 2009, and it will begin next month with the brand spankin' new Z4 showcased at the Detroit Auto Show. It is March, though, that will bring year's first real bounty. At Geneva, BMW will be showing off a concept version of the Progressive Activity Vehicle (half 5 Series, half X6), the Concept eDrive (an electric 1 Series or 3 Series), a Z4 Individual, and the Rolls-Royce 102EX (otherwise known as the RR4). Then in April, BMW's taking the show to Shanghai with the 760Li.

Post-Shanghai, you'll get a few months to digest. Then at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, BMW is expected to have the production-ready Progressive Activity Vehicle on display and the MINI Crossover. It is there, perhaps, that they'll also trot out a show pony speedster they call the Vision-Z with eDrive, their idea of "progress of sports cars for the future." And sprinkled on top throughout the year come launches of the 7 Series xDrive, 7 Series Hybrid, X5 M, X6 M, and X6 Active Hybrid. For bimmer lovers, 2009 is going to be a jubilee year.

[Source: BMW Blog]

BMW's 2009 unveiling schedule? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 28 Dec 2008 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

BMW to offer 7 Series with xDrive AWD in late 2009

Noah Joseph — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 20:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, BMW

Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2009 BMW 7 Series

Buyers in the upper echelon of the luxury segment are increasingly demanding all-wheel traction on their rides, and BMW has evidently grown tired of seeing would-be customers flocking to rival automakers like Audi and Mercedes-Benz to get what they want. So for the first time in the model line's history, the new BMW 7 Series will be offered with all-wheel drive.

Engineers in Bavaria have reportedly worked hard to keep the 7's rear-drive dynamics intact, and have opted to fit the xDrive system with a 30:70 rearward bias instead of the 40:60 in other applications. xDrive-equipped 7s will also get a slightly higher ground clearance and Hill Decent Control, a system usually reserved for serious off-road vehicles. The option will be available on all versions of the 7 save the smallest diesels and gasoline engines that we don't get in North America anyway, fetching a €2500-2800 premium (in European markets) over conventional rear-drive versions. BMW is testing the 7 Series with xDrive in snow-draped locales before the option is offered in other markets starting at the Frankfurt Motor Show in October 2009, after which Quattros and 4Matics will be looking over their shoulders.

Gallery: 2009 BMW 7 Series

[Source: Automobilwoche and BMW Blog]

BMW to offer 7 Series with xDrive AWD in late 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Dec 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

BMW announces pricing for 2009 7 Series, raises prices on everything else

Chris Paukert — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 15:28:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, BMW

Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2009 BMW 7 Series

The latest iteration of BMW's all-singing, all-dancing plutocrat limo will roll out the door starting at $81,125. That sum will get buyers the 2009 750i (including $825 for destination charges), but those who are looking for a bit more legroom in back will have to pay $85,025 for the 750Li. Production for these models began last month, but don't expect to see them on the forecourts of your local BMW Center until later this spring.

The rest of the BMW lineup is also getting a nudge on pricing, with the average MSRP climbing by 0.7 percent. All pricing increases are effective January 1, 2009; so if you're planning on gifting yourself a M5 or X6 for the holidays, make sure you do so before New Year's.

Click on the jump for BMW's official press release and full-line model pricing for 2009.

Gallery: 2009 BMW 7 Series

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW announces pricing for 2009 7 Series, raises prices on everything else

BMW announces pricing for 2009 7 Series, raises prices on everything else originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Pics and Video Aplenty: 2009 BMW 7 Series

John Neff — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Videos, Paris Motor Show, BMW

Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 BMW 7 Series

BMW released a bevy of new 2009 7 Series images and even some video today in anticipation of the big sedan's appearance next month at the Paris Motor Show. Officially unveiled at the Moscow Motor Show in early July, the 2009 7 Series will appear at the Paris show in at least six different models: the 730d powered by a 3.0L straight-six diesel engine, the 740i and long-wheelbase 740il, the 750i and the also long-wheelbase 750il, as well as a hybrid version. The 7 Series will also be packed with more high technology than NORAD, including a Side View camera system, Park Distance Control system, Lane Departure Warning system, Head-up display, a four-wheel steering system called Integral Active Steering, and, of course, the latest generation of BMW's iDrive. Back seat passengers can also be entertained via big headrest-mounted screens that are controlled via a second iDrive rotary knob in the rear seat center armrest Check out all of the new images released by BMW today in our gallery below, as well as b-roll video the new 7 Series being driven on the road after the jump.

Gallery: 2009 BMW 7 Series

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Pics and Video Aplenty: 2009 BMW 7 Series

Pics and Video Aplenty: 2009 BMW 7 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Sep 2008 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Tie a pork chop around its neck - Telegraph counts down 100 ugliest cars

Dan Roth — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 13:52:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Etc., Europe

It didn't start off as a way for readers of England's Telegraph newspaper to engage in the popular pastime of bashing American cars, but it wound up that way. To be fair, there are plenty of odd and ugly vehicles from all over the place on the Telegraph's list of the 100 ugliest cars of all time, and the voters didn't beat up on the colonies too badly. With so much homegrown hideousness to choose from, we can see how they'd be reluctant to throw stones.

The usual suspects are accounted for, of course. The Pacer is there, as are the Cayenne, BMW's 1 and 7 Series, though we thought the Rolls Royce Camargue was conspicuously low on the list. C'mon, guys, stop going easy on it just because you've got hometown pride. The Camargue really was horrid, no matter how well it sold. There are also vehicles that don't belong; cars that aren't even remotely ugly. The Boxster, XJS, TR7, and Chrysler 300 don't strike us as repulsive. The readers were almost spot-on, though, voting the Fiat Multipla into the second place slot. Number one is a car that everyone loves to hate, but it doesn't strike us as uglier than the Multipla. That vehicle? Aztek. Seriously.

[Source: Telegraph.co.uk via Hemmings]

Tie a pork chop around its neck - Telegraph counts down 100 ugliest cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 30 Aug 2008 13:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

BMW 7 Series gets ballsy unveiling in Russia

Chris Tutor — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 13:34:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Etc., BMW

You would think a car company with BMW's brand recognition could roll out its redesigned flagship 7 Series covered in burlap at a mid-December reveal in Siberia with no concerns over public perception, but BMW apparently feels the up-and-coming Russian market needs to be romanced with a glitzy intro right in the middle of Red Square. That's where the carmaker held the official unveiling (though we already got the official photos earlier this month) July 8th.

For two days, the 7-Series was hidden in 180,000 silver balls that filled a giant glass-and-acrylic hourglass almost 40 feet tall that had been built right in front of the Kremlin. Then, on the night of the 8th, as 400 invited guests watched, the top of the hourglass emptied to reveal the car.

BMW officials say the stunt was meant to illustrate the event's tagline, "Never stand still." Hey, if it sells a few Bimmers in Russia, maybe giant hourglasses are the way to go. Still, maybe next time they should at least consider the burlap. It's gotta be cheaper than silver balls, and we'd still blog about it.

Check out a high-res gallery of photos from the event here and BMW's press release after the jump.

Gallery: BMW 7-series gets ballsy unveiling in Russia

Gallery: 2009 BMW 7 Series

[Source: World Car Fans]

Continue reading BMW 7 Series gets ballsy unveiling in Russia

BMW 7 Series gets ballsy unveiling in Russia originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Officially Official: 2009 BMW 7 Series

Alex Nunez — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 17:45:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, BMW

Click above for a high-res gallery of the new 7 Series

BMW has officially announced the details pertaining to the 5th generation 7 Series, so let's cut right to the chase. In Europe, there are five models arriving on the market in November of this year: the 730d; the 740i and Li; and the 750i and Li. The latter two are powered by the same twin-turbo 4.4L V8 that debuted in the X6. In the U.S.-market 7 Series, the turbo eight is rated at 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, and it is the sole engine option being made available. If you want a BMW 7 Series in America, it will be a 750.

Europeans get more choices. The 730d's 3.0L diesel I6 pumps out 245 horses with nearly 400 lb-ft of torque. Despite the grunt, it boasts a combined fuel economy number of 32.6 U.S. miles per gallon (39.2 Imperial). The 740 models are powered by the now-familiar 3.0L twin-turbo gasoline engine. In the 7, the 3.0TT's power output is 326 horses and 332 lb-ft -- enough to hustle the 740Li from 0 to 62 mph in six seconds flat. All the engines are connected to a six-speed automatic. Follow the jump for more details and BMW's official press release.

Gallery: 2009 BMW 7 Series

Continue reading Officially Official: 2009 BMW 7 Series

Officially Official: 2009 BMW 7 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Jul 2008 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Leaked: 2009 BMW 7 Series photos hit the web

Alex Nunez — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 09:22:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, BMW

Click above image for a gallery of the new 7

There's a crack in the dam somewhere at BMW, and what certainly appear to be official press shots of the new 2009 7 Series are now making the rounds. This leads us to believe that we should see an official release from the automaker sometime over the weekend (if the way the 1 Series leaks played out is any indication). Obviously, all we have to go on are the photos, so lets talk about what we can see. The new car's lines and overall appearance are remarkably conservative compared to the Bangleized E65/E66 cars we were presented in 2001. The 2006 facelift those cars underwent cured many of those visual ills, and this latest car mainstreams things even further.

Up front, the wide double-kidney grille is flanked by angel-eye lamps that have an "eyebrow" built into their assembly. Move to the rear, and you'll find a pair of somewhat bulbous-looking (in pictures, at least) taillamps that are likely to generate a good amount of for/against chatter. Integrated, parallelogram-shaped exhaust tips poke through the rear bumper of the gold long-wheelbase car, while the darker, diesel-powered standard-length machine has a traditional double-tipped outlet on the driver's side.

The interior sports a new iDrive controller with buttons mounted around it now, and the iDrive onscreen interface itself is new, too. The multifunction steering wheel now has 3 spokes instead of four, and one shot clearly shows BMW's new in-car Internet service onscreen. Finally, the rear-seat entertainment system gets screens on each front seatback instead of the single, low-mount center screen available in the current 7. We're sure there's plenty more to talk about as well. For now, the comment floor is yours, and we expect to be talking about the official details in the coming days. Thanks to all the tipsters!

Gallery: 2009 BMW 7 Series

[Source: 7Post]

Leaked: 2009 BMW 7 Series photos hit the web originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 09:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: 2009 BMW 7 series, we're getting close!

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 09:31:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, BMW

Seriously, we're getting a bit tired of seeing lightly camo'd BMW 7- series sedans roaming the roads. Isn't it about time that the Bavarian automaker unleashed real photos upon the automotive world? These latest shots were taken by our friends over at Autofiends.com out in the Nevada desert, and we can again see that the much maligned flame-surfacing treatment common to BMWs from the last few years seems to be falling out of favor. In its stead are longer stretches of mostly flat sheet metal, though some vestigial character lines remain just below the greenhouse and door handles. Up front are exaggerated versions of the familiar kidney grilles which show clear inspiration from the Concept CS from a while back, though they are not nearly as monstrous as those seen on the next 5 Series. If rumors hold true, we can expect the spy shots to officially come to an end on July 7 when the new big Bimmer is expected to make its debut.

[Source: Autofiends.com]

Spy Shots: 2009 BMW 7 series, we're getting close! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Rumormill: 2009 BMW 7-series coming July 7th

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:32:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, BMW, Rumormill

The crew at the BMWBlog supposedly has the scoop on the next generation BMW 7-series, and in addition to a July 7th reveal date, they've procured a handful of details about BMW's flagship sedan.

Two, twin-turbocharged engines will be available: a V12 and the V8 currently found in the X6, with power being sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed transmission. Four-wheel steering will be an option, along with all-wheel-drive later in its lifecycle. Dynamic Performance Control, ConnectDrive and an improved iDrive interface will form the majority of the technical changes inside and the new 7's interior will supposedly mark the return of the driver-oriented controls of yore, with a center console canted in to face the person behind the wheel. We'll believe it when we see it.

BMW will offer four new colors for the 2009 7-series, including Cashmere Silver, Imperial Blue, Mineral Whit and Sophisto Grey and BMWBlog's sources say that the V8 model will be sporting a duo of square tailpipes, while the higher-end version will get four squared tips.

[Source: BMWBlog]

Rumormill: 2009 BMW 7-series coming July 7th originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments