It’s very difficult to survive in a sector where the S-Class is the benchmark. And no more knows it better than BMW who have tried every single trick in the book to play catch with it. This time, however, BMW might have stolen the march. And if you’d waited, you will find the wait fruitful. The new car has all-new iDrive system that’s easier to use and the pistol grip gear lever from the X5/5 Series and all kinds of gizmos to keep you and your occupants busy. It also looks less controversial, even though the design looks more of an evolution. There are also a whole host of aluminum bits for the running gear. Nevertheless it has two powerful, yet relatively frugal engines. A new 4.4 liter twin-turbo, dubbed the 750 makes its debut with the 7 Series, while the 3.0-liter turbo-diesel sees power and torque to up the ladder. BMW also thinks the 7 series is the perfect companion if you plan to move up the social ladder.
AUTODATA:
Engine: 4395cc, V8, turbo/2993cc, 16, TD
Transmission: 6-speed auto.
Power (bhp@rpm): 407@ 5500-6400/ 245@ 4000
Torque (kgm@rpm): 61.2@ 1750-4500/ 55.1@ 1750-3000
Dimensions:
LxWxH (mm): 5212x1902x1478
Wheelbase: 3210mm
What’s it got: It’s new - that’s why!
What it ain’t: It doesn’t have the three-pointed star.
Anything else? The Audi A8 if you want anonymity. Or a VW Phaeton for the same reasons… apart from the Merc.
AUTODATA:
Engine: 4395cc, V8, turbo/2993cc, 16, TD
Transmission: 6-speed auto.
Power (bhp@rpm): 407@ 5500-6400/ 245@ 4000
Torque (kgm@rpm): 61.2@ 1750-4500/ 55.1@ 1750-3000
Dimensions:
LxWxH (mm): 5212x1902x1478
Wheelbase: 3210mm
What’s it got: It’s new - that’s why!
What it ain’t: It doesn’t have the three-pointed star.
Anything else? The Audi A8 if you want anonymity. Or a VW Phaeton for the same reasons… apart from the Merc.
