BMW has hailed the launch of the fifth generation 7 Series as setting a new benchmark in automotive luxury, technical innovation and class-leading driving dynamics, combined with emissions reducing and fuel saving technology.
The flagship of the BMW model range was launched in Malta on Monday and will be offered with a choice of three powerplants, one diesel and two petrol engines.
The BMW 730d sets a new benchmark in terms of drive train performance. The new all-aluminium 3.0-litre straight-six cylinder diesel engine produces 245hp at 4,000rpm. Its effortless real world driving smoothness comes courtesy of a peak torque figure of 540Nm attained from 1,750rpm through to 3,000rpm. The 2,993cc powerplant posts the lowest CO2 figure of any previous 7 Series and is also the most economical 7 Series to date.
Its 192g/km emission figure is class-leading for conventionally powered luxury cars, while no other competitor comes close to its 39.2mpg combined consumption figure. It can accelerate from zero to 62mph in 7.2 seconds and has a 153mph top speed.
The BMW 750i and 750Li are the range flagships. The new 4,395cc V8 engine from the recently launched X6, featuring twin-turbochargers and high-precision direct injection technology, produces 407hp from 5,500rpm to 6,400rpm; impressive figures that are backed up by an equally stunning 600Nm of torque from 1,750rpm to 4,500rpm.
Such breathtaking performance sees the BMW 750i accelerate from zero to 62mph in 5.2 seconds (5.3 seconds for the 750Li) before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Consumption on the combined cycle is 24.8mpg, while CO2 emissions equate to 266g/km.
Aimed at customers who prefer the characteristics of a petrol-powered BMW six-cylinder engine, the BMW 740i and 740Li are also offered. Using an internationally-acclaimed 2,979cc power plant, the BMW 740i musters 326hp and 450Nm of torque for rapid yet serene performance. All 7 Series models come with a six-speed automatic gearbox as standard.
The launch of the new 7 Series means the BMW range now comes equipped with Efficient Dynamics technology as standard.
The new 7 Series comes with one of the most luxurious interiors of any premium car, BMW says. In addition to a new iDrive controller and larger 10.2-inch screen, owners will be able to programme frequently selected radio stations or navigation destinations on favourite buttons located on the centre console.
The instrument cluster comprises a high resolution colour display with 'Black Panel' technology. This new style of display makes for greater character clarity and, when not in use, forms a smooth, homogenous black surface that gives the interior an added level of modern elegance.
The 7 Series is the first BMW to enable a customer to upload their favourite music to be stored courtesy of an 8Gb hard drive. Over 100 albums can be saved. Four-zone automatic air conditioning is fitted as standard while, for the first time, the 7 Series can have a rear seat ventilation system combined with massage function.
The air conditioning system feeds cool air to the seat squab and backrest, while 12 massage bubbles gently knead the occupants' upper body.
The 7 Series starts at €119,000.
For more information, contact Muscats Motors on 2326 4000 or visit www.muscatsmotors.com.mt.