Controversial looks make the previous Bangle designed E66 generation look pretty.
A 31-inch screen should mean you don’t have any back seat drivers.
It was almost expected… The folks at BMW with drawing pencils and paper in hand are on a neverding task to create bold, statement pieces of design. Their latest models may have gone too far but at least the tech filled BMW 7 Series boasts some impressive gadgets.
Controversial looks make the previous Bangle designed E66 generation look pretty.
The recently revealed BMW X7 was the precursor of the split headlight configuration that is set to differentiate the flagship models in their portfolio from all of the others. The supply of spy shots for the 7 Series gave us the impression from early on that their next premium saloon would do the same, at least we weren’t led astray from the onset. The imposing front grille on the latest Bavarian saloon can also be illuminated for a truly signature presence during night time driving. See some of the details here.
So what do we have under the surface then? Well, the newest model from Munich offers a selection of internal combustion options with the first ever all-electric drivetrains in the lineup too. For us South Africans there will be a six-cylinder petrol powered 740i that puts out 280 kW and 520 N.m compliments of mild hybrid tech. The highly anticipated i7, available in the xDrive60 derivative, will employ a twin-motor setup which powers all wheels with a maximum of 400 kW and a whopping 745 N.m.
Depending on the driving context, the tech filled BMW 7 Series powered by batteries will have a range of over 600 km. No more range anxiety on that front then. As we have speculated previously, the latest 7 will only be offered in a single size. No more extra-legroom LWB models for businessmen wanting to stretch their legs after a strenuous day of trading stocks.
This doesn’t mean the second row of seats is any less desirable however. Other than the cabin being finished in plush looking material, the latest tech filled BMW 7 Series boasts a TV bigger than ones available in most South African households. It measures in at 31-inches and offers ultra-HD quality.
A 31-inch screen should mean you don’t have any back seat drivers.
While this is a vehicle that is preferable to be chauffeured around in, the front boasts equally as many cool amenities. Chiefly is the latest BMW iDrive 8 operating system which is offered on a curved display in the driver’s field of view. The 7 offers an Augmented View option which illuminates the dashboard with information. With the enormous screen, the cabin expectedly offers less tactile buttons than before, creating a clutter free environment.
This means that all passengers are offered screens instead, this includes an ‘Interaction Bar’ in front of the passenger seat and wraps into the door panels for access to features like climate control and interior lighting.
Keyword: New tech filled BMW 7 Series comes with controversial looks