Munich - BMW is planning to launch its fifth generation flagship 7-Series at the Paris Motor Show in October with a sleek design to make the car look narrower than its predecessor. The new 7-Series is in fact bigger and longer than the predecessor model, measuring 5.07 metres in length, 1.90 metres in width and 1.50 metres in height.
The BMW kidney-shaped front grille is bigger, the headlights have a sharper appearance and the ridge under the side windows give the car a longer and sleeker look.
But the real changes are under the bonnet with a complete new choice of two petrol and one diesel engine. The 740i six cylinder has an output of 240 kW/326 hp. BMW lists the consumption at 9.9 litres with a carbon dioxide emission figure of 232 grammes per kilometre.
The 750i comes with a V8 motor and an output of 300 kW/407 hp. BMW lists consumption at 11.4 litres and 266 g/km. The six cylinder 730d diesel has 180 kW/245 hp and consumption of 7.2 litres. The C02 emission is listed at 192 g/km.
This new generation is to go in showrooms by November, but BMW is planning a V12 version with hybrid drive developed jointly with Mercedes for the near future, BMW sources said.
BMW's management has yet to decide on the future of the 7-Series with hydrogen power.
BMW has also introduced a range of driver assistance systems in the new generation. The driver can put the electronically-controlled shock absorbers into three modes. An option is an active steering system with rear-axle steering. Customers can also order lane assist, an adaptive speed control with brake assist and stop-and-go function, a head-up display and night vision with pedestrian recognition.
BMW has yet to announce the price of the new generation series.
