Design Emphasizes Wide and Low Stance

Announced this JuneBMW's flagship sedanThe latest model of the "7 Series"has already arrived in Japan.

The front design of the new 7 Series emphasizes horizontal width with its enlarged kidney grille and the traditional twin round LED headlights that connect to it. Furthermore, the chrome accents on the air intakes integrated into the front bumper and the horizontal LED fog lights create an impression of a low and wide stance. This horizontal design theme is carried over to the rear, where the elongated L-shaped LED combination lamps and the chrome line connecting them visually express a sense of width even from the back.

BMW 750Li

BMW 750Li

At the press conference, Joji Nagashima, BMW's Exterior Creative Director, took the stage and spoke about the design: "For example, there's a creased shoulder line running along the side. By giving this line thickness, we've integrated the protruding door handles into the design, allowing them to blend naturally without disrupting the flow. In the new model, we've paid close attention to such details. I encourage you to examine them closely."

Nagashima was also responsible for the design of the "Z3," the previous generation "3 Series," and most recently, the "X5" and the concept model "Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupe", and previouslywhom OPENERS has interviewed before,is a Japanese designer for BMW.

Beyond visual refinement, aerodynamic performance has also been enhanced. The large kidney grille, contrary to its appearance, is normally closed and features "Active Air Stream" technology, which opens the slats only when internal cooling is required. Additionally, the flat underbody and Air Breathers are among the many features designed to improve aerodynamics, resulting in a drag coefficient (Cd) of approximately 2.5, an improvement of about 0.5 points compared to the previous generation.

BMW 750Li M Sport

BMW 750Li M Sport

Meanwhile, the body itself utilizes the "Carbon Core" structure, a composite of carbon fiber (CFRP), aluminum, and high-strength steel, leveraging technologies developed for models like the "i3" and the "i8". Furthermore, by extensively using aluminum in the doors, trunk lid, and chassis, the vehicle has shed 130 kg compared to its predecessor. The suspension and wheels have also been lightened, reducing unsprung weight by approximately 15 percent.

The suspension features electronically controlled dampers, "Dynamic Damping Control," along with self-leveling air suspension as standard on all models. Additionally, at speeds below 35 km/h, the vehicle can raise its ride height by 20 mm to overcome obstacles like parking lot curbs, or lower it by 10 mm during high-speed driving. The "Executive Drive Pro" system, which uses a camera mounted on the front windshield to detect road undulations and continuously adjust the suspension, along with electric active stabilizers to suppress body roll during cornering, is also standard.

Cutting-Edge Equipment as a Flagship

The headlights feature laser light technology, a first for a mass-produced BMW model, standard on the 750i and 750Li, and optional on other models. It automatically activates at speeds above 70 km/h, illuminating up to 600 meters ahead. Of course, it automatically deactivates to prevent dazzling oncoming or preceding vehicles.

Another new feature is "Remote Control Parking." This allows the car to be moved forward or backward from outside the vehicle using the remote key, enabling parking in tight spaces where opening the doors is impossible, even after exiting the vehicle. It is also useful for safely maneuvering out of parking spaces with extremely limited visibility. However, its availability for the Japanese market is slated for sometime in 2016.

Inside, the 10.2-inch wide Control Display is now touch-enabled, allowing operation via touch screen in addition to the iDrive controller. Furthermore, a gesture control function is standard, using a 3D camera to recognize hand gestures and control audio and other functions without physical contact.

In addition to parallel parking, the Parking Assistant function automatically controls the gears, steering, accelerator, and brakes for both parallel and perpendicular parking. Other standard features include wireless charging for smartphones, ambient lighting, a welcome light carpet that illuminates the footwell upon opening the door, and front seat massage functions. Some models also offer a head-up display with a 75% larger projection area and a panoramic glass sunroof.

For the long-wheelbase models, which prioritize rear-seat comfort, a detachable 7-inch tablet is integrated into the rear center armrest, allowing control of climate, multimedia, and more. Additionally, optional features include a rear entertainment experience with 10-inch color displays on the back of the front headrests, and rear-seat massage functions that can also perform workout programs.

Plug-in Hybrid Also Planned for Introduction

Three powertrain options will be available for the new 7 Series in Japan. The "740" and its long-wheelbase variant, the "740Li," are equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger. This engine produces a maximum output of 240 kW (326 hp) and a peak torque of 450 Nm (45.9 kgm), achieving 0-100 km/h in 5.5-5.6 seconds and a fuel economy of 12.2 km/ℓ in the JC08 mode. These models qualify for eco-car tax reductions, meeting the "FY2015 Fuel Economy Standards +10%" and "2005 Emission Standards 75% Reduction Level (★★★★ Low-Emission Vehicle)" criteria, offering a 40% reduction in acquisition tax, 25% in weight tax, and 50% in the following year's automobile tax.

The 4.4-liter V8 engine with twin turbochargers, found in the "750i" and "750Li," delivers a maximum output of 330 kW (450 hp) and a peak torque of 650 Nm (66.3 kgm), achieving 0-100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds. While the JC08 mode fuel economy is still pending approval, it is reported to be approximately 10% better than the previous generation in Europe. Deliveries for these models are scheduled to begin in January 2016.

BMW 740Le

BMW 740Le

Additionally, a plug-in hybrid model will be offered, combining a 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 190 kW (258 hp) with a 90 kW (95 hp) electric motor for a system output of 240 kW (326 hp). This model features a lithium-ion battery and can travel up to 40 km on electric power alone. This PHEV is scheduled for introduction in 2016.

For the new 7 Series, BMW M GmbH performance-oriented "M Sport" options are now available for the first time. Exterior features include an M Aerodynamics package with dark chrome elements and exclusive double-spoke M alloy wheels. The interior boasts black high-gloss trim and an anthracite headliner to create a sporty ambiance. An 8-speed sport automatic transmission is also offered.

Pricing for the right-hand drive only 740 and 740Li ranges from 12.17 million to 14.32 million yen. The 750i and 750Li, available in both right-hand and left-hand drive with deliveries starting in January 2016, are priced between 14.85 million and 17.01 million yen. Pricing for the ActiveHybrid model has not yet been determined.

BMW 740i | BMW 740i
BMW 740Li | BMW 740Li
Body Dimensions |
(740i) Length 5,110 × Width 1,900 × Height 1,480 mm
(740Li) Length 5,250 × Width 1,900 × Height 1,485 mm
Wheelbase | (740i) 3,070 mm (740Li) 3,210 mm
Track Front/Rear | 1,610 / 1,640 mm (M Sport: 1,620 / 1,620 mm)
Curb Weight | (740i) 1,880 kg (740Li) 1,900 kg
Engine | 2,998cc Inline 6-cylinder DOHC Twin Power Turbo
Bore x Stroke | 92.0 x 94.6 mm
Max. Output | 240 kW (326 ps) / 5,500 rpm
Max. Torque | 450 Nm (45.9 kgm) / 1,380-5,000 rpm
Transmission | 8-speed AT (M Sport: 8-speed sport AT)
Drivetrain | FR
Suspension Front | Double-wishbone with air springs (self-leveling)
Suspension Rear | Integral-link with air springs (self-leveling)
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated discs / Ventilated discs
Fuel Economy (JC08 mode) | 12.2 km/ℓ
Trunk Capacity | 515 liters
0-100 km/h Acceleration | (740i) 5.5 seconds (740Li) 5.6 seconds
Min. Turning Radius | (740i) 5.8 m (740Li) 6.0 m
Tires Front/Rear | 245/50R18 (M Sport: 245/45R19 / 275/40R19)
Steering Position | Right
Price | 12.17 million yen (740i), 12.88 million yen (740i M Sport), 13.46 million yen (740Li), 14.32 million yen (740Li M Sport)

BMW 750i | BMW 750i
BMW 750Li | BMW 750Li
Body Dimensions |
(750i) Length 5,110 × Width 1,900 × Height 1,480 mm
(750Li) Length 5,250 × Width 1,900 × Height 1,485 mm
Wheelbase | (750i xDrive) 3,070 mm (750Li xDrive) 3,210 mm
Track Front/Rear | 1,620 / 1,620 mm
Engine | 4,395cc V8 DOHC Twin Power Turbo
Bore x Stroke | 89.0 x 88.3 mm
Max. Output | 330 kW (450 ps) / 5,500-6,000 rpm
Max. Torque | 650 Nm (66.3 kgm) / 1,800-4,500 rpm
Transmission | 8-speed AT (M Sport: 8-speed sport AT)
Drivetrain | FR
Suspension Front | Double-wishbone with air springs (self-leveling)
Suspension Rear | Integral-link with air springs (self-leveling)
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated discs / Ventilated discs
Trunk Capacity | 515 liters
0-100 km/h Acceleration | 4.7 seconds
Tires Front/Rear | 245/45R19 / 275R40R19 (M Sport: 245/40R20 / 275/35R20)
Steering Position | Right / Left
Price | 14.85 million yen (750i), 15.37 million yen (750i M Sport), 16.49 million yen (750Li), 17.010 million yen (750Li M Sport)