Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2016 BMW 7 Series spied for the first time ever]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/28/2016-bmw-7-series-spied-for-the-first-time-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/28/2016-bmw-7-series-spied-for-the-first-time-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/28/2016-bmw-7-series-spied-for-the-first-time-ever/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2016 BMW 7 Series - spy shot, disguised

Ladies and gentlemen, Bimmerphiles and automotive voyeurs of all stripes: here is your next-generation BMW 7 Series. Captured in photographs for the first time ever while doing a spot of cold-weather testing in Sweden, this newly slim 7er will most likely debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2015 and launch in the 2016 model year.

Sources indicate that BMW is targeting a much lighter curb weight for the 7 Series, and will use learnings gained with the i3 and i8 development to add carbon fiber-reinforced plastics in the construction. In return we'd expect the new model - which uses the internal model designation "G11" - to offer improvements in handling, acceleration and fuel economy. As with the current 7 Series lineup, expect the engine range to include turbocharged inline-six engines, one or more V8s and a V12 option.

It's fair to say that, with the car's debut still years down the road, that BMW will work to launch with an impressive suite of in-car technology, too. A completely new version of iDrive shouldn't be ruled out. These shots mark the beginning of a long journey to 2015, and we expect to have loads more information to share in the coming months and years, so stay tuned.

2016 BMW 7 Series spied for the first time ever originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2016 bmw 7 series7 seriesbmwspy photosspy shotsThu, 28 Feb 2013 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20482535/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/28/2016-bmw-7-series-spied-for-the-first-time-ever/20482535/article-detail.xml 20482535 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2016-bmw-7-series-spy-shots-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2016-bmw-7-series-spy-shots-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 BMW 750Li [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/2013-bmw-750li/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/2013-bmw-750li/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/2013-bmw-750li/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bavarian Hustler Gets Solid Update Including Stunning New iDrive

2013 BMW 750Li

For a while now, the absolute and rather uncontested king of big luxury executive sedan sales worldwide has been the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Among the obvious competition, there has been an almost unspoken agreement that this is so, and that it shall remain so for our lifetimes. Clearly, this is regardless of the fact that the motoring press - i.e. we the so-called "experts" - have generally preferred this generation of Audi A8/S8, or the sporting BMW 7 Series in its various trims. But hey, what do we know?

Deliveries of this midlife-update BMW 750Li to US dealers began back at the end of September, and we waited deliberately until now to delve deeply into it. Visually, aside from some small aesthetic changes, there is little difference on the surface between this 2013 model and the 2012 model it replaces, the main change being that it gets the latest edition of BMW's iDrive system, which in software terms is version 4.2.

We'll get to that, but there have actually been upgrades to the twin-turbocharged V8 ("N63B44" to those in the know) that renders this big Bimmer more of a sports car in its class, even in the long-wheelbase form tested here. Output is up by over eleven percent to 443 horsepower at 5,500 rpm, torque now stands at 479 pound-feet for a more modest gain of just under seven percent between 2,000 and 4,500 revs. Acceleration to 60 miles per hour is claimed at 4.7 seconds using the eight-speed Steptronic automatic, a time that seems almost freakishly quick for a 4,660-pounder that stretches 17.1 feet from bumper to bumper.

Continue reading 2013 BMW 750Li [w/video]

2013 BMW 750Li [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Dec 2012 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 7 series2013 bmw 750li7 series750i750libmwfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveidriveMon, 17 Dec 2012 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20404469/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/17/2013-bmw-750li/20404469/article-detail.xml 20404469 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-bmw-750li-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-bmw-750li-fd.jpg <![CDATA[BMW unsure over fate of V12 in 7 Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/bmw-unsure-over-fate-of-v12-in-7-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/bmw-unsure-over-fate-of-v12-in-7-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/bmw-unsure-over-fate-of-v12-in-7-series/#commentsFiled under: , ,



BMW, only recently celebrating 25 years of V12 engines in its 7 Series sedan and releasing a special 25 Years Anniversary Edition, has put the future of the top-flight execu-barge in question. A BMW product and pricing manager told Australian site Car Advice that a decision on putting a 12-cylinder in the next-generation car, due in 2016, hasn't been made yet.

It appears that this decision isn't due exclusively to emissions (that V12 is quite a guzzler, after all), since the current 760Li sells in such low numbers - at $140,200 in the US, it's the most expensive offering we have from The Roundel, beating the Alpina B7 by nearly $13,000. It sounds like the emissions issue, along with other issues like design and technology, are dominating considerations for the line in general.

Emphasis is being put on making sure the 7 Series is more differentiated from every other car in BMW's lineup, and while anything is possible, you can count us surprised if the next 7 Series shows up without a V12. There is no indication that the competitors are giving up on the biggest engines in their biggest sedans, and as the BMW executive says, there will always be a market for such cars - certain buyers need to be able to stress the word "ultimate" in "Ultimate Driving Machine."

BMW unsure over fate of V12 in 7 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Dec 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7 series760libmwv12Mon, 03 Dec 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20392635/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/03/bmw-unsure-over-fate-of-v12-in-7-series/20392635/article-detail.xml 20392635 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/24-2010-bmw-760li-qs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/24-2010-bmw-760li-qs.jpg <![CDATA[2013 BMW Alpina B7]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/2013-bmw-alpina-b7-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/2013-bmw-alpina-b7-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/2013-bmw-alpina-b7-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Alpina Makes Biggest Bimmer Act A Lot Like An M3

2013 BMW Alpina B7

For the time being, BMW has left it up to close collaborator Alpina to create a turbocharged V8-powered rival for the Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG and Audi S8. We've been lucky enough to take a few spirited drives in Alpinafied BMWs on the no-limit Autobahns around the company's headquarters in Buchloe, Germany, over the years, and each experience has been solidly hair-raising.

Other than creating what may be the country's ultimate everyday Autobahn missiles, Alpina does wonders for the ride and handling of the BMW models they touch, along with providing impressively reworked transmission interfaces and improved overall responsiveness. In the case of this B7, Alpina turns the 7 Series into the best big Bimmer going.

In the niche of thundering bi-turbo V8 luxury sedans, only this 532-horsepower Alpina B7, 512-hp Audi S8 and the 536-hp Mercedes S63 AMG (563 horses, that is, with the $7,300 AMG Performance Package) really reach this particular level. The $139,625 Porsche Panamera Turbo and the $176,275 Turbo S are both fine rides, but they aren't traditional sedans, and their unusual aesthetics don't always appeal to the buttoned-down execs that buy traditional premium saloons.

It's not surprising that buying either the B7 Bimmer or the S63 Benz will likely set you back some $140,000 to $145,000 once they are spec'd exactly the way you'd want 'em (the SWB-only Audi is a bit cheaper, at about $124k happily optioned). Base price for the Alpina B7 short wheelbase is $127,600 or $131,500 for the long wheelbase model, with a further $3,000 premium for xDrive. Following these, as a curveball, there's the 503-hp Jaguar XJ/XJL Supersport at around $126,000. The US comes closest with its Chrysler 300 SRT8 at 465 hp and a price of $60,000 tops in your driveway. It's like two separate worlds.

Continue reading 2013 BMW Alpina B7

2013 BMW Alpina B7 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw alpina b77 seriesalpinab7bmwfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveMon, 19 Nov 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20382394/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/19/2013-bmw-alpina-b7-first-drive-review/20382394/article-detail.xml 20382394 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-alpina-b7-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-alpina-b7-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Future US BMW diesel plans leaked]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/future-us-bmw-diesel-plans-leaked/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/future-us-bmw-diesel-plans-leaked/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/future-us-bmw-diesel-plans-leaked/#commentsFiled under: ,

BMW 320d badge

Back in July, we told you that BMW would be bringing a pair of new diesel engines to the US market in the near future, and thanks to the folks at VWVortex.com, we might just have a clearer view of exactly how those new oil-burning mills might fit into the automaker's lineup.

One intrepid forum member obtained a photo of a slide being shown during a BMW North America meeting, listing specific models set to receive diesel engines in the coming years. If true, it appears that the 3 Series sedan and sport wagon will both be offered with diesel power in the first and second half of 2013, respectively. Also on deck for next year is a 5 Series diesel, reportedly slated to launch in the third quarter, as well as an X5 diesel that will arrive in Q4 2013. Looking ahead to 2014, the slide shows that both the 7 Series and X3 will be offered with diesel engines. Both of those models will come in the first half of 2014.

BMW currently offers the X5 with a 3.0-liter diesel inline-six in the xDrive35d model, and before the F30 3 Series arrived earlier this year, the automaker offered this same engine in its well-liked 335d sedan.

The two engines BMW will be bringing to our shores are a new 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel four and 3.0-liter turbo-diesel six. Our best guess is that the 3 Series, 5 Series and X3 will receive the smaller mill, estimated to produce roughly 255 horsepower and an unknown amount of torque. The 7 Series and X5 will likely rely on the larger 3.0-liter six for torque-tastic grunt. Expect eight-speed automatic transmissions to be on hand across the board, as well.

Future US BMW diesel plans leaked originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series5 series7 seriesbmwdieselx3x5Tue, 06 Nov 2012 10:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20371538/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/06/future-us-bmw-diesel-plans-leaked/20371538/article-detail.xml 20371538 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/p90050390highres_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/p90050390highres.jpg <![CDATA[BMW marks 25 years of 12-cylinder engines]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/bmw-marks-25-years-of-12-cylinder-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/bmw-marks-25-years-of-12-cylinder-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/bmw-marks-25-years-of-12-cylinder-engines/#commentsFiled under: , ,

BMW's V12 7 Series models over the years

BMW has already celebrated the silver anniversary of its V12-powered 7 Series flagship by offering a special 25 Years Anniversary Edition of the car for 2013, but now the automaker has released a visual display of the engine's quarter-century in the nose of its big Autobahn cruisers. First introduced in 1987 in the 750i, BMW points out it was the first of the modern German luxury sedans to use a 12-cylinder engine - Mercedes-Benz and Audi didn't offer such an engine in their S-Class and A8 models for several more years.

While the current engine used in the current F02 760Li pumps out 535 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque, the E32 750i had just 300 hp and 330 pound-feet of twist; the E38 750i had 322 hp and the E66 760i had 439 hp.

Just as dramatically as its power figures have progressed, so, too, has the car's styling, from its early days as more traditional luxury sedan right through its controversial period with Chris Bangle lines to today's modern look. Even the interior has come a long way over the lifespan of the 7 Series, starting out as barren, soberly Germanic (note the car phone) with a roomy back seat to a progressively more plush cabin stuffed with technology. See the progression for yourself in our gallery above, as well as in the press release below.

Continue reading BMW marks 25 years of 12-cylinder engines

BMW marks 25 years of 12-cylinder engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Oct 2012 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 7 series2013 bmw 760li7 series750i750li760libmwe32e38e65e66f01f02v12Tue, 30 Oct 2012 08:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20361826/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/30/bmw-marks-25-years-of-12-cylinder-engines/20361826/article-detail.xml 20361826 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/25-years-bmw-v12_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/25-years-bmw-v12.jpg <![CDATA[BMW recalling 7 Series over inadvertently opening doors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/bmw-recalling-7-series-over-inadvertently-opening-doors/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/bmw-recalling-7-series-over-inadvertently-opening-doors/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/bmw-recalling-7-series-over-inadvertently-opening-doors/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



There are 7,485 BMW 7 Series sedans involved in a recall over a software glitch that can cause the sedan's doors to open unintentionally "due to road or driving conditions or occupant contact with the door." The issue was discovered in Japan in 2007, covering cars from the 2005 to 2007 model years, and it led to a recall there that same year.

Just after the Japanese recall, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration asked about the matter in the U.S., to which BMW responded that it would issue a service bulletin and that during a general software update for the car, the code dealing with the door issue would also be rectified. Four years on, in 2011, when NHTSA asked about the matter again, BMW said that up to 80 percent of the cars had got the new software. After meeting with the German company earlier this year over the door matter and others, a recall is being made official.

Check out the recall notice from NHTSA below.

Continue reading BMW recalling 7 Series over inadvertently opening doors

BMW recalling 7 Series over inadvertently opening doors originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7 seriesbmwNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationnhtsarecallMon, 29 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20361101/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/29/bmw-recalling-7-series-over-inadvertently-opening-doors/20361101/article-detail.xml 20361101 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2007bmw7_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2007bmw7.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M750i and 728i may be launching next March]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/26/bmw-m750i-and-728i-may-be-launching-next-march/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/26/bmw-m750i-and-728i-may-be-launching-next-march/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/26/bmw-m750i-and-728i-may-be-launching-next-march/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Fresh off its mid-cycle update, the BMW 7 Series is once again the center of rumors, this time in the context of the new swath of M-branded vehicles that BMW is set to unleash upon the world. The rumor was dropped by German blog BimmerToday, and suggests that an M750i would join the ranks of the M550d, X5 M50d, and M135i. This seems rather plausible, as BMW has long been hesitant to produce an out-and-out M7 performance saloon.

If the rumors are to be believed, the M-variant 7 Series would have a version of the turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 currently in the 750i, but tuned to 450 horsepower. Power would be sent to either the rear wheels or all corners via BMW's xDrive. The question remains, though, what would happen to the Alpina B7 if this car were to come to market? All the added power and handling seems to fall right on top of the B7's piece of the 7 Series pie. Its future would remain to be seen.

Also in the rumor-mongering was word that there could be an entry-level 728i, employing BMW's N20B20 turbocharged 2.0-liter mill, albeit with the help of an electric motor. Such a vehicle would be slotted below the current 740i and positioned to take on small-displacement hybrid flagships from Audi and Mercedes-Benz.

Remember to take these reports with perhaps a few grains of salt; but its interesting to consider the possibility of BMW expanding the 7 Series lineup in both directions.

BMW M750i and 728i may be launching next March originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Sep 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 7 series7 series728728ialpina b7b7bmwm7m750iWed, 26 Sep 2012 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20334157/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/26/bmw-m750i-and-728i-may-be-launching-next-march/20334157/article-detail.xml 20334157 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/20137bmwprice_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/20137bmwprice.jpeg <![CDATA[Special edition 760Li celebrates 25 years of BMW 12-cylinder car engines]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/special-edition-760li-celebrates-25-years-of-bmw-12-cylinder-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/special-edition-760li-celebrates-25-years-of-bmw-12-cylinder-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/special-edition-760li-celebrates-25-years-of-bmw-12-cylinder-car/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We don't remember our last encounter with a car that was built to celebrate an engine, but we have one now in the 2013 BMW 760Li: V12 25 Years Anniversary Edition. Created for the U.S. alone, and in a batch of just 15 cars, this 7 Series commemorates a quarter century of BMW making automotive engine blocks with a dozen combustion chambers. For a comparison of how far 25 years will take you, the 750iL with that first, naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V12 produced 295 horsepower, while the twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12 in today's 760Li gets 535 hp.

This special sedan wears a full merino leather interior in champagne with contrasting black wood trim, piping and floor mats, as well as leather on the pillars, a rear-seat entertainment package, Alcantara headliner and parcel shelf, 20-inch wheels and enough V12 badges throughout to start an eBay shop. Price is set at $159,695, which includes destination and is nearly $20,000 above the standard sedan. If you are one of the 15 buyers, you will certainly be able to add more options and more expense as you see fit.

Continue reading Special edition 760Li celebrates 25 years of BMW 12-cylinder car engines

Special edition 760Li celebrates 25 years of BMW 12-cylinder car engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Sep 2012 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7 series760libmwlimited editionspecial editionMon, 10 Sep 2012 11:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20319193/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/10/special-edition-760li-celebrates-25-years-of-bmw-12-cylinder-car/20319193/article-detail.xml 20319193 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/bmwv12aniv-1347282503_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/bmwv12aniv-1347282503.jpg <![CDATA[2013 BMW 7 Series makes its North American debut at Pebble Beach]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/17/2013-bmw-7-series-makes-its-north-american-debut-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/17/2013-bmw-7-series-makes-its-north-american-debut-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/17/2013-bmw-7-series-makes-its-north-american-debut-at-pebble-beach/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Behold the 2013 BMW 750i. The German automaker's flagship sedan bowed to a North American audience for the very first time at Pebble Beach, and while designers kept the big 7 largely unchanged outside, buyers can look forward to a slew of incremental improvements indoors. Under the hood, engineers rustled up an additional additional 45 horsepower and 30 pound-feet of torque from the 4.4-liter V8 in the 750i thanks to the addition of Valvetronic. The swap nudges the machine's final power figures to 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of twist, which help scoot the massive four-door to 60 mph in a scant 4.7 seconds. Hi-ho, Silver.

Even with the nudge in performance, BMW says it has managed to improve efficiency by around 25 percent due to the addition of a new eight-speed automatic transmission. Meanwhile, the 740i continues on with the same horsepower for 2013, but receives a 20-percent jump in efficiency thanks to its eight-speed gearbox.

Look for a new ECO PRO powertrain management system to bow on both the 740i and 750i as well. The system helps eek every last bit of available efficiency from the engine and transmission and includes a coast mode that allows the 7 Series to freewheel at speeds between 30 and 100 mph.

2013 BMW 7 Series makes its North American debut at Pebble Beach originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 7 series2013 bmw 750i7 series740i750ibmwbmw 7 seriesmontereypebble beachFri, 17 Aug 2012 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20302887/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/17/2013-bmw-7-series-makes-its-north-american-debut-at-pebble-beach/20302887/article-detail.xml 20302887 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-bmw-750li-monterey_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-bmw-750li-monterey.jpg <![CDATA[BMW outlines plans at Pebble, teases new Zagato concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/bmw-outlines-plans-at-pebble-teases-new-zagato-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/bmw-outlines-plans-at-pebble-teases-new-zagato-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/bmw-outlines-plans-at-pebble-teases-new-zagato-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The pageant of global automotive finery that is Pebble Beach weekend is under way, and among the many automakers with big plans is BMW. Its prize pony will be the unveiling of the BMW Zagato concept (click the photo above to enlarge) - a different BMW-Zagato collaboration than what was revealed at Villa d'Este earlier this year (see gallery below). This one to be debuted at Pebble Beach has familiar lines, but is a roadster.

Elsewhere on the lawns of Pebble, the 2013 7 Series and Alpina B7 will plant their tires on American soil for the first time and get the 650i Gran Coupe, M5 and M6 for a cheering section. Beyond the grass, a 1986 BMW-March GTP, 1980 BMW M1 Procar and 1975 BMW 3.5 CSL will be heating up the asphalt at the Monterey Motorsports Reunion, and the 40th anniversary of the M division will be one of the subplots at Legends of the Autobahn.

Have a read of the press release below for the official details, and stay tuned for our live coverage from these hallowed links.

Continue reading BMW outlines plans at Pebble, teases new Zagato concept

BMW outlines plans at Pebble, teases new Zagato concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6 series6 series gran coupe7 seriesbmwm5m6pebble beachpebble beach 2012zagatozagato conceptzagato roadsterThu, 16 Aug 2012 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20302201/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/16/bmw-outlines-plans-at-pebble-teases-new-zagato-concept/20302201/article-detail.xml 20302201 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/teaserzagato-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/teaserzagato-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW announces pricing for updated 2013 7 Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/bmw-announces-pricing-for-updated-2013-7-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/bmw-announces-pricing-for-updated-2013-7-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/bmw-announces-pricing-for-updated-2013-7-series/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The latest new bit of news surrounding the 2013 BMW 7 Series is a price tag: $74,195 gets you inside the large doors of the 740i, and that includes $895 destination (as do all prices that follow). The 740Li xDrive is a new addition slotted at the top of the 740 range and will run $81,195. Next up on the entry-price ladder is the ActiveHybrid 7 with a smaller but more more potent powertrain, 2.5 miles of EV range and better fuel economy, ringing up $84,895 at the till.

There's a $6,700 spread in prices for the model with the 445-horsepower, 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, with the 750i starting things off at $87,195 and the 750Li xDrive running $93,895. It's quite a leap from there to the next plateau: the short-wheelbase Alpina B7 clocks in at $128,495, the long-wheelbase B7 requires $132,395. Adding xDrive to either of those models adds $3,000. But it's the in-house 760Li that tops the charts at $140,200.

The 2013 models have been breathed on everywhere, with design, powertrain, technology and efficiency tweaks providing comprehensive improvement. Have a look below for the full price list.

Continue reading BMW announces pricing for updated 2013 7 Series

BMW announces pricing for updated 2013 7 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jul 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 7 series7 series740i740li750i750li760liactivehybrid 7alpinaalpina b7b7bmwpricexdriveMon, 23 Jul 2012 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20283328/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/23/bmw-announces-pricing-for-updated-2013-7-series/20283328/article-detail.xml 20283328 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/20137bmwprice_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/20137bmwprice.jpg <![CDATA[Who makes the best night-vision system? <i>Car and Driver</i> weighs in]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/who-makes-the-best-night-vision-system-car-and-driver-we/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/who-makes-the-best-night-vision-system-car-and-driver-we/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/who-makes-the-best-night-vision-system-car-and-driver-we/#commentsFiled under: , ,

C&D test night vision systems

Car and Driver Tested continues with an episode comparing the night vision systems from the Big Three German luxury makers. While the testing involves a remote-controlled turkey and a deer crossbred with a construction cone, the most interesting thing the guys from C/D do is to cover the windshields of the cars to try and drive through an autocross course relying on technology alone. Hence the conversation through the sunroofs you see pictured above.

And the results? While we wouldn't call it an epic fail, it is an entertaining one. Night vision is one of the bells and whistles that's probably not destined to trickle down from the Audi A8, BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz CL-Class anytime soon, but like most luxury features it's an impressive display of engineering.

Scroll down to watch the full episode.

Continue reading Who makes the best night-vision system? Car and Driver weighs in

Who makes the best night-vision system? Car and Driver weighs in originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7 seriesa8audiautocrossbmwCar and Drivercl-classmercedesnight visionnight vision systemMon, 18 Jun 2012 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20260610/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/18/who-makes-the-best-night-vision-system-car-and-driver-we/20260610/article-detail.xml 20260610 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/cd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/cd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW reveals Alpina B7 upgrades for 2013]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/bmw-reveals-alpina-b7-upgrades-for-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/bmw-reveals-alpina-b7-upgrades-for-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/bmw-reveals-alpina-b7-upgrades-for-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We've already read about the new features that will be available on the refreshed 2013 BMW 7 Series, but now, the German automaker has spilled the beans about its delicious Alpina B7, as well.

As you'd expect, the B7's 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 has been massaged for the new model year (including the addition of start/stop), and drivers will now be able to enjoy 540 horsepower and 538 pound-feet of torque - increases of 40 and 22, respectively. All of this runs through a new eight-speed automatic transmission and can be sent to the ground via standard rear-wheel drive or through BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. BMW says that depending on drive configuration and wheelbase length, the sprint to 60 miles per hour can be achieved in either 4.3 or 4.4 seconds.

The slight visual enhancement to the 2013 7 Series is indeed noticeable here on the Alpina B7, with the larger kidney grille up front flanked by redesigned headlamps. Revised taillamps are found out back, and of course, the B7 is offered in its signature Alpina Blue Metallic rounded off with the car's signature 21-inch, 20-spoke wheels at all four corners.

BMW will officially debut the 2013 Alpina B7 at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in August. Short-wheelbase models will be priced at $127,600 (rear-wheel drive) and $130,600 (xDrive), with long-wheelbase B7s retailing for $131,500 and $134,500, respectively. Scroll down for the full details in BMW's press blast.

Continue reading BMW reveals Alpina B7 upgrades for 2013

BMW reveals Alpina B7 upgrades for 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Jun 2012 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 7 series2013 bmw alpina b77 seriesalpinaalpina b7b7bmwFri, 15 Jun 2012 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20259457/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/15/bmw-reveals-alpina-b7-upgrades-for-2013/20259457/article-detail.xml 20259457 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-2013-bmw-alpina-b7-1339772553_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-2013-bmw-alpina-b7-1339772553.jpg <![CDATA[Diesel-powered BMW 7 Series headed to U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/diesel-powered-bmw-7-series-headed-to-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/diesel-powered-bmw-7-series-headed-to-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/diesel-powered-bmw-7-series-headed-to-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



According to a report in Car and Driver, the refreshed 2013 BMW 7 Series will be offered with diesel power here in the Untied States. The flagship BMW will be powered by the same 3.0-liter turbo-diesel inline-six that's found elsewhere in the Roundel lineup, though as of this moment, it's still unclear what sort of power or fuel economy figures are expected in the 7 Series. Expect the production model to wear either 735d or 740d nomenclature.

For reference, the BMW X5 xDrive35d with this same engine produces 265 horsepower and 425 pound-feet of torque. The all-wheel-drive X5 crossover is able to achieve up to 26 miles per gallon when equipped with the 3.0-liter diesel engine. The 7 Series is indeed a big boy, but we expect it to achieve better fuel economy numbers than the X5.

Car and Driver says that the diesel 7 Series should arrive in about one year's time, where it will compete against the Mercedes-Benz S350 Bluetec and Audi A8 3.0 TDI for diesel-powered luxury supremacy. The rest of the updated 2013 7 Series range goes on sale this summer.

Diesel-powered BMW 7 Series headed to U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jun 2012 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 7 series7 series7 series diesel7-series735d740dbmwbmw dieseldieselTue, 05 Jun 2012 17:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20251837/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/05/diesel-powered-bmw-7-series-headed-to-u-s/20251837/article-detail.xml 20251837 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/7series628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/7series628opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW copyrights 2 Series, X2, M7, M10, etc.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/04/bmw-copyrights-2-series-x2-m7-m10-etc/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/04/bmw-copyrights-2-series-x2-m7-m10-etc/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/04/bmw-copyrights-2-series-x2-m7-m10-etc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW Emblem on white background

BMW looks to be on something of a name-grabbing spree. The German automaker has reportedly trademarked a number of new vehicle names, including 2 Series, X2, M7 and M10 among others. Of course, just because a manufacturer lays claim to a name doesn't mean there's a production model around the bend, but the monikers at least give us an idea of what's being thrown around conference tables in Munich. While names like 2 Series, X2 and M7 are no real shock given the rumors we've heard as of late, it is interesting to ponder what an M10 might be.

The German manufacturer also planted its flag on awkward names like Compactive, Compactive Tourer and Urbanic. All of those badges could conceivably find a home on the new line of front-wheel drive BMW models set to be introduced in the near future. Check out the full list of trademarked names over at E90Post.com.

BMW copyrights 2 Series, X2, M7, M10, etc. originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Jun 2012 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2 series7 seriesbmwbmw m10bmw m7bmw namesbmw x2copyrightfront-wheel drivefront-wheel drive bmwm10m7trademarkx2Mon, 04 Jun 2012 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20250937/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/04/bmw-copyrights-2-series-x2-m7-m10-etc/20250937/article-detail.xml 20250937 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/bmw-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/bmw-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M7 talk picks up speed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/03/bmw-m7-talk-picks-up-speed/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/03/bmw-m7-talk-picks-up-speed/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/03/bmw-m7-talk-picks-up-speed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 BMW 7 Series, front three-quarter dynamic view

With Mercedes-Benz and Audi happy to slake the world's appetite for top-dollar, full-size luxury sports sedans through their AMG and S divisions, we can't help but wonder why it's taken so long for BMW to commit to an M7 model.

For years, the sportiest 7 Series in the U.S. has been the Alpina B7, which has been heavily breathed-upon by the namesake tuner and offered through official BMW dealers. Most recently, Car and Driver reopened the discussion just last month.

While the company still isn't officially committing to an M7, TheDetroitBureau.com quotes Ludwig Willisch, CEO of BMW North America, as bullish on the model's prospects. According to the the report, while BMW has long maintained that it wouldn't build a 7 Series M, "sentiment appears to be changing, especially with Willisch's counterpart in China also lending his support." Of course, if BMW builds such a model, that doesn't mean we'll see it in the States, but Willisch seems optimistic about our chances.

No timetable has been set, and BMW has been occupying its time with the just-revealed 7 Series refresh (and the M division is still busy readying the next M3), so if an M7 is in the cards, it wouldn't surprise us if we had to wait until the next-generation model's arrival.

BMW M7 talk picks up speed originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 03 Jun 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7 seriesbmwbmw m7m7Sun, 03 Jun 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20248842/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/03/bmw-m7-talk-picks-up-speed/20248842/article-detail.xml 20248842 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013bmw7series2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013bmw7series2.jpg <![CDATA[America, these are your top 10 most expensive cars to own]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/america-these-are-your-top-10-most-expensive-cars-to-own/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/america-these-are-your-top-10-most-expensive-cars-to-own/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/america-these-are-your-top-10-most-expensive-cars-to-own/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - red - at speed in a forest

Picking up a used luxury car is a great way to save some coin. Letting the previous owner take the fall on depreciation is a smart move, but it's worth remembering that high-end autos carry with them high-end maintenance and repair costs. Using Edmunds.com data, 24/7 Wall Street has compiled what it says are the 10 most expensive vehicles to own, and the list is populated by some not-so-surprising names. BMW and Mercedes-Benz soak up the lion's share of the offenders, though other manufactures make a showing as well. Perhaps not surprisingly, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG takes top honors as the most expensive of them all with a "true cost of ownership" of $245,469. That's in addition to the gullwing supercar's $210,875 MSRP.

The calculations not only factor in deprecation, but also things like fuel, maintenance and insurance costs.

All told, Mercedes-Benz models takes four of the 10 spots on the list. That's twice as many as BMW, and the rest are split between makes like Land Rover, Audi and Nissan. If that last one seems a bit out of place, keep in mind Nissan makes the mighty (and mighty complex) GT-R. Check out our gallery below for a full list of the biggest offenders.

America, these are your top 10 most expensive cars to own originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7 seriesactivehybrid 7alpina b7audibmwclcl-classcost of ownershipg-classgt-rland roverlsls600hmercedes-benzmost expensive carnissanownershipr8range roverslsl-classsls amgFri, 25 May 2012 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20245083/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/25/america-these-are-your-top-10-most-expensive-cars-to-own/20245083/article-detail.xml 20245083 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 BMW 7 Series arrives with more power, gadgets and safety [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/2013-bmw-7-series-arrives-with-more-power-gadgets-and-safety/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/2013-bmw-7-series-arrives-with-more-power-gadgets-and-safety/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/2013-bmw-7-series-arrives-with-more-power-gadgets-and-safety/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 BMW 7 Series, dynamic shot, front three-quarter view

The 2013 BMW 7 Series gets incremental improvements everywhere. Outside the changes are minimal: fewer vertical slats inside the kidney grille and a larger chrome surround, two horizontal chrome accents bars splitting the lower intake, restyled side mirrors with turn-signal indicators, and new shades of red on the taillights. Inside are resculpted front seats, more soundproofing, redesigned ambient lighting, an updated iDrive controller and "floating" screens for the Rear Seat Entertainment package, and an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system. Along with those changes, the look of the navigation system has been updated with new menu organization, displays, a "pie menu" and 3D elements. The Attention Assistant system provides gives BMW drivers their own coffee cup icon to remind you when it's time to rest and hands-free trunk operation makes its first appearance in the range.

The eight-speed steptronic transmission, fitted to every model, allows the new 7 to make more of its engines. Under the hood, the inline six-cylinder in the 740i maintains the same power ratings, 315 horsepower and 330 lb-ft, but is mated to the new eight-speed Steptronic transmission and said to have "significantly improved" efficiency, with a 20 percent increase noted in the EU cycle. The 4.4-liter V8 in the 750i gets fitted with Valvetronic and gets bumps of 45 hp and 30 lb-ft, for 445 hp and 480 lb-ft total. The changes reduce its 0-60 time to 4.7 seconds, at the same time as fuel economy on the EU cycle climbs 25 percent with the new transmission.

The second-gen ActiveHybrid 7 drops down an engine size, swapping its previous V8 for the 3.0-liter six-cylinder from the 740. It's yoked to a 55-hp synchronous motor. Rated at a combined 349 hp and 367 lb-ft, BMW says it is 14 percent more fuel efficient than the 740i.

Both the 740i and 750i will come with a new powertrain management system dubbed ECO PRO that joins the other Driving Dynamics Control settings and that includes a coasting mode operable between 30 and 100 mph. Other driving enhancements include Dynamic Damper Control, an electronically controlled damping system that works on each shock individually dependent on road conditions, self-leveling rear suspension now standard on all models, and xDrive available on the 740i.

Both the 740i and 750i will arrive in showrooms this summer, the ActiveHybrid 7 coming this fall. The high-res gallery above can show you what's coming, scroll down to read all about it in the press release.

UPDATE: A pair of official videos are now available by scrolling below.

Continue reading 2013 BMW 7 Series arrives with more power, gadgets and safety [w/video]

2013 BMW 7 Series arrives with more power, gadgets and safety [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 May 2012 09:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 7 series7 series7-series740740i740li750750i750li760liactivehybrid 7bmwbmw activehybrid 7Fri, 25 May 2012 09:34:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20244838/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/25/2013-bmw-7-series-arrives-with-more-power-gadgets-and-safety/20244838/article-detail.xml 20244838 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013bmw7series2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013bmw7series2.jpg <![CDATA[BMW considering possibly, maybe making an M7, sort of]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/19/bmw-considering-possibly-maybe-making-an-m7-sort-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/19/bmw-considering-possibly-maybe-making-an-m7-sort-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/19/bmw-considering-possibly-maybe-making-an-m7-sort-of/#commentsFiled under:

2011 BMW Alpina B7

Okay, so maybe this isn't much in the way of confirmation, but BMW M division president Friedrich Nitschke told Car and Driver that the company was "considering" building an M Performance version of the 7-Series. While that's not quite an M7, it's close.

Remember, M Performance is the new quasi-M car line that BMW has created to offer a higher performance version of its vehicles to slot between the standard models and the full-blown M cars. M Performance will also allow BMW to create performance diesel and all-wheel-drive models without sullying the M badge.

Of course, enthusiasts looking for a full-size BMW performance sedan can already have an Alpina B7 like the one pictured above, but there's something alluring about a real M-badged 7-Series. Given that BMW has already M-ed the X6, it only seems fair that the 7-Series gets some love too, even if it's just in M Performance form.

Nitschke's interview revealed a few more interesting details about BMW's product plans, namely that turbocharged engines are here to stay. He said BMW has no plans to use superchargers for its M products, and it sounds like naturally aspirated M engines are a thing of the past as well. Manual transmissions will continue to be offered, as according to Nitschke, new models will be equipped with transmissions that use software and electronics to "protect" the tranny from mismatched shifts. We won't be seeing a hatchback M135i here in the U.S., however, nor are any of the diesel M Performance models headed towards our shores.

BMW considering possibly, maybe making an M7, sort of originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7 series7-seriesbmwfriedrich nitschkem performancem7Thu, 19 Apr 2012 19:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20219329/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/19/bmw-considering-possibly-maybe-making-an-m7-sort-of/20219329/article-detail.xml 20219329 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/lead1-2011-bmw-alpina-b7-review-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/lead1-2011-bmw-alpina-b7-review-opt.jpg -1 2