The new 12-cylinder engine features gasoline direct-injection technology. Its output is 536 horsepower, with torque peaking at 553 pound-feet. BMW says the powertrain returns a respectable 18 mpg on the European cycle, while enabling 0-60-mph acceleration in less than 4.6 seconds — nothing short of remarkable for a large luxury sedan.
The company is also planning to couple the eight-speed automatic with its Active Hybrid technology, which combines a V8 gasoline engine with an electric motor. BMW says to look for a production-ready 7 Series Hybrid to appear later this year, perhaps at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show.
The automaker continues to develop and fit other emerging technologies as well to the big sedans. Standard equipment on the latest iterations includes Dynamic Damping Control and Dynamic Drive (roll stability). The 760Li also gets a self-leveling air suspension. Both models can be ordered with Integral Active Steering, which features speed-related adjustment of the steering angle on the rear wheels for enhanced high-speed stability.
A dizzying array of high-tech options is available: Lane Change Warning, lane-departure warning, Active Cruise Control with stop-and-go function, Night Vision with detection of individual persons, a head-up display, back-up camera, sideview system, high-beam assistant and adaptive headlights, including Bending Lights, variable light distribution and adaptive headlight range control.
The 760Li gets a 5.5-inch stretch in the wheelbase, with a concurrent increase in rear-passenger head- and legroom. Both models feature opulent cockpits trimmed in napa leather, Alcantara and burr walnut, with a full range of high-end accessories.
Our favorite new feature on the 7 Series: Automatic Soft Close for all doors.
Write By : Paul Lienert
No comments:
Post a Comment