BMW has finally released full details and images for its fifth-generation 7-series flagship following the premature leak yesterday of several blurry images and vague details.

As expected, the car picks up several influences from 2007’s striking CS Concept vehicle including new LED elements on the headlights, an oversized grille and more fluid taillights.

BMW’s 7-series is famous for its incorporation of the latest in automotive technology and gadgetry. Advanced safety systems, new driver-car interface mechanisms and complex onboard computers are all hallmarks of the range, and the latest model won’t disappoint. Some of the new features include advanced radar cruise control and camera-based safety systems as well as a range of more powerful and efficient engines.

Changes more than skin deep
The rear end of the car is sure to draw criticism, just as the previous generation did, and despite the disharmony between the front and rear, the overall effect of the new model is more elegant than its predecessor. While the exterior changes appear to be more of an evolution of the current model’s styling rather than a complete revamp, there are expected to be a host of significant changes underneath the new sheet metal.

These include a 140mm longer wheelbase in the 750Li, and a wider track for all models, which should give the car an even more compliant and stable ride. Additionally, a range of new engine options, including an eventual hybrid powertrain, features in the new 7-series.

Powerplants and high-tech gear
The range topping model is a new 750i and its 750Li extended wheelbase cousin, both of which are powered by a 300kW 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with 600Nm of torque. The only transmission available is a six-speed automatic, however BMW is expected to add a new eight-speed unit further down the track.

The 740i name returns, but is powered the award-winning 3.0-litre straight-six turbo engine instead of the former’s V8 and delivers 240kW and 450Nm of torque. There’s also a 730d turbodiesel with a 3.0-litre force-fed oil-burner churning out 183kW and 540Nm of torque.

Performance is also improved through extensive use of lighter multi-phase and hot-rolled steels in the body and chassis load-bearing structures, as well as aluminium for the roof, doors, hood and front fenders, plus on the front spring towers, engine block and differential housing.

Hybrid model in the works
The hybrid powertrain, a version of the two-mode system jointly developed with Daimler and General Motors, won't be available at launch, instead rolling out across the global scene starting a year after the car first goes on sale.

An entirely new suspension system also features in the new 7-series. The design consists of a multi-link double-wishbone front suspension combined with a new ‘Integral V’ rear set-up. Self-levelling air suspension is also available. Rack-and-pinion steering with variable ratio and hydraulic power assist continues, but with a new-type hydraulic pump that delivers assist only when called for, thereby saving fuel. One key feature is the debut of BMW’s latest active steering system for the rear wheels.

A new dynamic damping control system will give a selection of four different settings for the suspension, including comfort, normal, sport and sport-plus. A simple button press will switch between the modes, which also affect the shift algorithms of the new automatic transmission. The same settings also affect accelerator and steering wheel sensitivity.

The iDrive system fitted to all 7-series models gets an upgraded 10.2-inch high-resolution LCD screen while the often-criticised and complex menu system is revised to be more intuitive and easy to use. GPS functionality is enhanced with topographical elements and the entertainment system, which is accessed via the screen and iDrive controller, is upgraded with a hard drive.

Advanced safety in spades
Safety features include an active blind spot detection system and a new night vision set-up with pedestrian detection features. An optional adaptive cruise control system is also available, which can move the car automatically in stop and go traffic.

The blind spot system will vibrate the steering wheel and flash an LED on the exterior mirror upon initiating a lane change when there is an unseen vehicle in the blind spot or when there is a vehicle quickly approaching. The new system works in conjunction with BMW’s previous lane departure warning system, which also vibrates the steering wheel.

Finally, there is also a high beam assist, which automatically dims the headlights for oncoming traffic.

The new 7-series is expected to be officially revealed later this month before going on sale in Europe after its world debut at the Paris Motor Show in October. Australian release dates are yet to be announced but local sales usually occur within months after the international launch.

The car will have its work cut out for it up against its main rival, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, which has been widely praised for its prominent styling and latest technology. The evolutionary and safe styling of the new 7-series, both inside and out, may end up costing it sales in a segment where buyers usually want to be noticed but the improvement over the current model is certain to bring in more buyers.

Fifth-generation BMW 7-series gallery

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