Global debut to take place at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
For the first time ever, BMW is inviting select owners - including a Bimmerpost forum member - for a private viewing of the previously leaked next generation BMW 7-Series, which is to be held in the U.S today. The invitation received consists of teasers of the highly anticipated luxury sedan, which depict its laser headlight design.
The next generation model (codenamed G11/G12) will feature a new design that doesn't represent a huge departure from the outgoing model, improvising BMW's latest design philosophy.
The flagship sedan will benefit from extensive carbon fiber in its chassis construction which has reportedly made the car lighter by 170 kg. It is based on the new 35up rear-wheel-drive platform that will underpin the next generation 5- and 6-Series, as well as the X7 SUV.
The interior retains the flowing dashboard design of the outgoing model, but now features cues from BMW's Vision Future Luxury Concept. The new 7 Series is also expected to be equipped with a next-gen iDrive infotainment system powering a freestanding touchscreen that supports gesture recognition.
Other reported features offered include a new Bowers & Wilkins Audio System, wireless mobile phone charger, Heads-Up display responsive to gestures, Wi-fi Hotspot, high-tech rear seats with power adjustments, new keyfob, multiple climate packages, Sky Lounge and leather engine cover.
The 7 Series will continue to be offered with six- and eight-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, albeit slightly revised for better efficiency. Reports speculate that the base model will be powered by a smaller 2.0-liter twin-turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Sadly, the flagship 6.6-liter V12 BMW 760Li could be axed due to Europe’s stringent emission regulations.
Also Read: BMW Zinoro Concept Next SUV teased for Auto Shanghai
The 2016 BMW 7-Series is expected to be fully revealed in August, ahead of its motorshow debut in September at the 2015 Frankfurt Auto Show. The European market launch could take place by the end of this year, while an Indian introduction is set for next year. Like the current model, the next 7-Series will also follow the CKD path, with kits assembled at the Chennai plant which is encouraging more local vendor participation.
[Source: Bimmerpost]
