wikedgolf
03-21-2005, 04:49 PM
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/luxury/112_05bmw_7series01_l.jpg
Design and technology pioneer freshened for 2006
Due out Spring 2005
Since its dramatic debut as a 2002 model, the 7 Series has been anything but static. Following on the original two V-8 models, regularwheelbase 745i and long-wheelbase 745Li, model year ’03 saw introduction of the V-12 760Li model, a phase-in of the STEPTRONIC automatic transmission on all models, and a Sport Package for the two 745 models. 2004 brought optional Xenon Adaptive headlights, adding “steering†capability to the Xenon lights that had been standard from the start; standard powerfold exterior mirrors; and significant refinements to the iDrive system and automatic climate control. In mid-’04, the regular-wheelbase, sport-toned V-12 760i was added to the Series. Then, for the ’05 model year, the Xenon Adaptive headlights became standard on all models, while Park Distance Control became standard on the 745 models as it already was on the 760s. Then, for the ’05 model year, the Xenon Adaptive headlights became standard on all models, while Park Distance Control became standard on the 745 models as it already was on the 760s. Also in ’05, two new options became available: Comfort Access for more convenient entry and locking, and the Rear Entertainment Package, providing rear-seat passengers their own iDrive monitor and DVD changer.
All of which reminds one that at BMW, the pace of evolution and improvement never slows; so it is that as of March 2005 production, a significantly evolved 7 Series makes its debut as four early ’06 models. The changes are typical of a midterm freshening at BMW, focusing on tangible engineering and technical progress, tasteful design refinements and even greater luxury for these already most supremely refined and luxurious BMW Sedans.
What’s new for 2006
• Front-end design (hood, grille, lighting clusters, bumper/spoiler)
• All models now have same grille shape (previously, 760 models’ grille frames were wider at top than those of 745s)
• Side sills/rocker panels
• Rear-end design (trunklid, taillight clusters, bumper/spoiler)
• Bumpers of all models except 760i now have chrome trim (previously only “Li†models had this)
• Four new exterior colors
• New 4.8-liter V-8 engine, up from 4.4-liter; 360 hp vs. 325, 360 lb-ft. torque vs. 330; V-8 models become 750i and 750Li
• Wider rear track
• Front suspension bushings refined
• Rear suspension bushings refined
• New standard wheel design for 750i/Li models
• 750i/Li Sport Package wheels (19-in., differentiated front/rear sizes) now in same design as the stand-alone optional wheels
• Interior colors:
• Standard leather, 750i/Li and 760Li – two new combinations
• 750i/Li Sport Package leather – two new combinations
• New standard wood trim in 750i/Li – American Walnut
• Detail trim elements in new Titanium material; many other detail refinements to interior finishes
• Steering-wheel design (standard wheel, not sport version)
• Detail design changes to instrument panel and center stack
• Further evolution of iDrive: new menu color schemes, enhanced functionality, user-friendlier
• iDrive controller newly shaped, has leather insert
• Climate controls have finer feel/touch
• New hard controls for AM/FM selection and other entertainment sources
• Bluetooth cellphone interface; cellphone as standard equipment discontinued, customer uses own approved phone. Pull-out Telecommander phone keypad remains as standard equipment, with refined design
• Flat Tire Warning newly standard
• Run-flat tires return as optional equipment (750i/Li only)
• Sport Package (750i/Li only) now includes 20-way Comfort front seats; sport seats available as no-cost option in combination with Sport Package.
Subtly freshened design:
on the outside…
Forward of the windshield, the ’06 7 Series is mostly new – yet the changes have been executed with the utmost reserve and subtlety. New elements include a larger rendition of BMW’s traditional “kidney†grilles; a new bumper/spoiler ensemble; new headlights and foglights; and a re-contoured hood.
Along the body sides, newly contoured rocker panels with a pronounced ridge lend visual length to the profile; the rear bumper’s wraparound tucks in more noticeably at the wheelwell and thus visually emphasizes a 14-mm/0.6-in. wider rear track. Both 750 models have a new standard wheel design, with seven relatively wide spokes reaching right out to the rim.
Yet another exercise in subtlety, the trunklid is newly shaped while retaining the original’s advantages in terms of aerodynamics and cargo space; the taillights now wrap into the lid, and are accented by a slender bright strip. Inside the taillight clusters – which of course include BMW’s safety-enhancing Adaptive Brake Lights – the running lights employ strips of light for bolder and more attractive illumination. Setting a sporty accent, the rear bumper ensemble incorporates a “diffusor†section at bottom center.
Four new exterior colors become available, all metallics: Monaco Blue, Deep Green, Michigan Blue and Barbera Red replace four of the earlier colors. The total number of exterior colors offered remains 12.
…and inside
In the also freshened interior, the new details won’t leap out at you, but they are numerous, and they also attet to the attention BMW devotes to the “little things that count.†Among the new refinements is the standard steering wheel’s design, with less surface area at its center and a thicker rim for a firmer, sportier grip. New climate-control knobs present improved tactile feel to the user, and are trimmed in an elegant new Titanium galvanic material that also appears in other details. The iDrive system’s controllers – between the front seats, and in the rear when the optional Rear Entertainment Package is present – have a new, handier shape and a handsome leather insert on top. New color schemes are offered, one of which is the warm, rich Lava Blue with Black trim. The new 750i/Li standard wood trim is American Walnut, while highgloss Ash in two available colors remains a no-extra-cost option in these models.
Functional enhancements include the audio system’s new hard controls for AM/FM and entertainment source selection; MP3 capability added to the CD changer (standard 760i/Li, optional 750i/Li); and a Bluetooth cellphone interface. Whereas previously the 7 Series came standard with an installed (but also portable) phone, owners will now select their own phone from a list of BMW-approved handheld phones – and of course they can keep up with the latest developments in this fast-moving technology while also enjoying the Series’ standard hands-free calling, auto-dial functions and Voice Command convenience.
Stronger performance for the V-8 models:
New 4.8-liter engine in 750i and 750Li
Under 750i and 750Li models’ aluminum hood is a further evolution of the technologically advanced and unique N62 V-8 engine. As such, this power unit continues with BMW’s revolutionary Valvetronic system, which controls engine power by varying valve lift instead of relying on a conventional throttle. Compared to conventional valvegear, Valvetronic enhances torque, power and efficiency – and now increased displacement further boosts torque and power. Indeed, the new 750 engine achieves even greater specific power than its predecessor: With 9.1% more displacement (it’s up from 4.4 to 4.8 liters), power is up 35 hp (10.8%) from 325 to 360 hp. Likewise, its torque curve is richer; the new, higher torque peak of 360 lb-ft. (up from 330) occurs at 3400 rpm, down 200 rpm from the predecessor. Although official 0-60-mph acceleration times are little changed (5.8 sec., 0.1 sec. quicker than for the 745s), the real story here is more urge virtually anytime the driver presses down on the accelerator pedal, especially at midrange speeds.
In one specific respect, the new engine has been simplified. The previous engine version had a fully variable induction system, capable of varying the induction passages’ length steplessly from minimum to maximum – certainly an optimum solution, and a very elaborate one, for achieving strong performance in all rpm ranges. With the new engine’s increased displacement boosting torque, BMW’s engine engineers simplified the induction system to 2 stages, one for low to medium engine speeds, the o her for high engine speeds.
As before, all 7 Series models transmit their abundant power to the rear wheels via a 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission. The transmission itself is similar to those in other BMW models – most BMW automobiles now offer a 6-speed automatic – but the 7 Series has a unique driver interface. Rather than on the center console, the main transmission selector is positioned just ahead of the steering-wheel rim. On the steering wheel are a button for selecting Drive (normal), Sport or Manual shift modes, and shift buttons on the front and back of the steering wheel for executing manual shifts.
Copyright © www.press.bmw.de
Design and technology pioneer freshened for 2006
Due out Spring 2005
Since its dramatic debut as a 2002 model, the 7 Series has been anything but static. Following on the original two V-8 models, regularwheelbase 745i and long-wheelbase 745Li, model year ’03 saw introduction of the V-12 760Li model, a phase-in of the STEPTRONIC automatic transmission on all models, and a Sport Package for the two 745 models. 2004 brought optional Xenon Adaptive headlights, adding “steering†capability to the Xenon lights that had been standard from the start; standard powerfold exterior mirrors; and significant refinements to the iDrive system and automatic climate control. In mid-’04, the regular-wheelbase, sport-toned V-12 760i was added to the Series. Then, for the ’05 model year, the Xenon Adaptive headlights became standard on all models, while Park Distance Control became standard on the 745 models as it already was on the 760s. Then, for the ’05 model year, the Xenon Adaptive headlights became standard on all models, while Park Distance Control became standard on the 745 models as it already was on the 760s. Also in ’05, two new options became available: Comfort Access for more convenient entry and locking, and the Rear Entertainment Package, providing rear-seat passengers their own iDrive monitor and DVD changer.
All of which reminds one that at BMW, the pace of evolution and improvement never slows; so it is that as of March 2005 production, a significantly evolved 7 Series makes its debut as four early ’06 models. The changes are typical of a midterm freshening at BMW, focusing on tangible engineering and technical progress, tasteful design refinements and even greater luxury for these already most supremely refined and luxurious BMW Sedans.
What’s new for 2006
• Front-end design (hood, grille, lighting clusters, bumper/spoiler)
• All models now have same grille shape (previously, 760 models’ grille frames were wider at top than those of 745s)
• Side sills/rocker panels
• Rear-end design (trunklid, taillight clusters, bumper/spoiler)
• Bumpers of all models except 760i now have chrome trim (previously only “Li†models had this)
• Four new exterior colors
• New 4.8-liter V-8 engine, up from 4.4-liter; 360 hp vs. 325, 360 lb-ft. torque vs. 330; V-8 models become 750i and 750Li
• Wider rear track
• Front suspension bushings refined
• Rear suspension bushings refined
• New standard wheel design for 750i/Li models
• 750i/Li Sport Package wheels (19-in., differentiated front/rear sizes) now in same design as the stand-alone optional wheels
• Interior colors:
• Standard leather, 750i/Li and 760Li – two new combinations
• 750i/Li Sport Package leather – two new combinations
• New standard wood trim in 750i/Li – American Walnut
• Detail trim elements in new Titanium material; many other detail refinements to interior finishes
• Steering-wheel design (standard wheel, not sport version)
• Detail design changes to instrument panel and center stack
• Further evolution of iDrive: new menu color schemes, enhanced functionality, user-friendlier
• iDrive controller newly shaped, has leather insert
• Climate controls have finer feel/touch
• New hard controls for AM/FM selection and other entertainment sources
• Bluetooth cellphone interface; cellphone as standard equipment discontinued, customer uses own approved phone. Pull-out Telecommander phone keypad remains as standard equipment, with refined design
• Flat Tire Warning newly standard
• Run-flat tires return as optional equipment (750i/Li only)
• Sport Package (750i/Li only) now includes 20-way Comfort front seats; sport seats available as no-cost option in combination with Sport Package.
Subtly freshened design:
on the outside…
Forward of the windshield, the ’06 7 Series is mostly new – yet the changes have been executed with the utmost reserve and subtlety. New elements include a larger rendition of BMW’s traditional “kidney†grilles; a new bumper/spoiler ensemble; new headlights and foglights; and a re-contoured hood.
Along the body sides, newly contoured rocker panels with a pronounced ridge lend visual length to the profile; the rear bumper’s wraparound tucks in more noticeably at the wheelwell and thus visually emphasizes a 14-mm/0.6-in. wider rear track. Both 750 models have a new standard wheel design, with seven relatively wide spokes reaching right out to the rim.
Yet another exercise in subtlety, the trunklid is newly shaped while retaining the original’s advantages in terms of aerodynamics and cargo space; the taillights now wrap into the lid, and are accented by a slender bright strip. Inside the taillight clusters – which of course include BMW’s safety-enhancing Adaptive Brake Lights – the running lights employ strips of light for bolder and more attractive illumination. Setting a sporty accent, the rear bumper ensemble incorporates a “diffusor†section at bottom center.
Four new exterior colors become available, all metallics: Monaco Blue, Deep Green, Michigan Blue and Barbera Red replace four of the earlier colors. The total number of exterior colors offered remains 12.
…and inside
In the also freshened interior, the new details won’t leap out at you, but they are numerous, and they also attet to the attention BMW devotes to the “little things that count.†Among the new refinements is the standard steering wheel’s design, with less surface area at its center and a thicker rim for a firmer, sportier grip. New climate-control knobs present improved tactile feel to the user, and are trimmed in an elegant new Titanium galvanic material that also appears in other details. The iDrive system’s controllers – between the front seats, and in the rear when the optional Rear Entertainment Package is present – have a new, handier shape and a handsome leather insert on top. New color schemes are offered, one of which is the warm, rich Lava Blue with Black trim. The new 750i/Li standard wood trim is American Walnut, while highgloss Ash in two available colors remains a no-extra-cost option in these models.
Functional enhancements include the audio system’s new hard controls for AM/FM and entertainment source selection; MP3 capability added to the CD changer (standard 760i/Li, optional 750i/Li); and a Bluetooth cellphone interface. Whereas previously the 7 Series came standard with an installed (but also portable) phone, owners will now select their own phone from a list of BMW-approved handheld phones – and of course they can keep up with the latest developments in this fast-moving technology while also enjoying the Series’ standard hands-free calling, auto-dial functions and Voice Command convenience.
Stronger performance for the V-8 models:
New 4.8-liter engine in 750i and 750Li
Under 750i and 750Li models’ aluminum hood is a further evolution of the technologically advanced and unique N62 V-8 engine. As such, this power unit continues with BMW’s revolutionary Valvetronic system, which controls engine power by varying valve lift instead of relying on a conventional throttle. Compared to conventional valvegear, Valvetronic enhances torque, power and efficiency – and now increased displacement further boosts torque and power. Indeed, the new 750 engine achieves even greater specific power than its predecessor: With 9.1% more displacement (it’s up from 4.4 to 4.8 liters), power is up 35 hp (10.8%) from 325 to 360 hp. Likewise, its torque curve is richer; the new, higher torque peak of 360 lb-ft. (up from 330) occurs at 3400 rpm, down 200 rpm from the predecessor. Although official 0-60-mph acceleration times are little changed (5.8 sec., 0.1 sec. quicker than for the 745s), the real story here is more urge virtually anytime the driver presses down on the accelerator pedal, especially at midrange speeds.
In one specific respect, the new engine has been simplified. The previous engine version had a fully variable induction system, capable of varying the induction passages’ length steplessly from minimum to maximum – certainly an optimum solution, and a very elaborate one, for achieving strong performance in all rpm ranges. With the new engine’s increased displacement boosting torque, BMW’s engine engineers simplified the induction system to 2 stages, one for low to medium engine speeds, the o her for high engine speeds.
As before, all 7 Series models transmit their abundant power to the rear wheels via a 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission. The transmission itself is similar to those in other BMW models – most BMW automobiles now offer a 6-speed automatic – but the 7 Series has a unique driver interface. Rather than on the center console, the main transmission selector is positioned just ahead of the steering-wheel rim. On the steering wheel are a button for selecting Drive (normal), Sport or Manual shift modes, and shift buttons on the front and back of the steering wheel for executing manual shifts.
Copyright © www.press.bmw.de