Autoblog

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After seeing numerous exterior spy shots and renderings of BMW's upcoming 2009 7 Series and hearing details about the drivetrain, we finally have what appears to be a spy shot of the new 7's interior. Like the exterior, it appears to be rather subdued for a modern BMW. As we had previously heard, the joystick gear lever has moved back to its rightful position in the center console between the seats. Although the woodgrain and some of the panels don't line up all that well, we're not concerned about it considering that this is obviously not a production model yet. We're also happy to see that the iDrive screen is better integrated into the dash. While we generally favor a clean, uncluttered look, we wonder how this new and more simple design ethos will resonate with the luxury car buyers that are BMW's target audience. Thanks for the tip, Luke!

[Source: E90Post.com]

Just yesterday, we reported that the new BMW 7 Series (F01) will be fitted with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Now we are hearing rumors that the 2009 flagship sedan will be available with four-wheel steering, as well. While we understand the consumer-driven technology battle going on between the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8 and BMW 7 Series, the addition of a four-wheel steer option (with the added mechanical complexity and weight) just doesn't seem to make much sense to us these days - the '80s are over. The 7 Series isn't designed as a canyon carver, so we can rule out the handling advantages. Integrated "all around" cameras and parking sensors have simplified parking, so that's not an excuse. Lastly, sophisticated electronics can now modulate brakes, throttle and even the steering rack to compensate for vehicle instability. BMW is understandably tight-lipped about details... and this type of feature is obviously difficult to discern from spy shots. Drat!

[Source: BMW Blog]

BMW's future flagship 7-Series sedan has been spotted in Melbourne, Australia on its way back from a photo shoot. Not due until 2009, this all-new platform will carry BMW's internal designation F01/F02 (the F02 is the long-wheelbase model). It is expected to go into production later this year with cars rolling into showrooms shortly thereafter.

We've seen other spy shots of the 7-Series, however these latest shots are indicative of a vehicle in near-finished form. The exterior and interior appear complete, as well. While we still aren't seeing clear shots of the exterior, it has been widely rumored that the new 7-Series will be a departure from the current Bangle-designed sedan, with styling reported to look much like the BMW CS Concept. BMW may show us its new 7-Series as early as September at the Paris Auto Show. Of course, Autoblog will be there. Thanks for the tip Mike S!

[Source: Carpoint]