BMW have debuted their new range-topping BMW 7-Series, the BMW M760Li xDrive V12, ahead of its official unveil at the Geneva Motor Show 2016 which starts at the beginning of next month. It is the first M Performance 7-Series although in actual fact, it slots into the range at the same point as the previous 760Li.
The BMW M760Li xDrive V12 features a TwinPower Turbo, 6.6 litre, all-aluminium V12 engine. BMW have used a closed-deck structure for the engine, with bolts holding the cylinder head down to the floor plate of the crankcase. There are double bolts on the main bearings, with threaded support bushes and bolts providing increased stability. Iron-coated aluminium pistons, forged connecting rods and a forged crankshaft all help to reduce vibration. The BMW M760Li xDrive V12 should be very smooth indeed! The centrally mounted fuel injectors fire directly into the combustion chamber at 200-bar of pressure.
The V12 features mono-scroll turbochargers with a redesigned intercooler and additional water pump. The exhausts meet EU6c standards despite featuring mostly straight pipes. Power is rated at 600hp and 800Nm of torque ensuring a zero to 62mph time of 3.9 seconds and a (limited) top speed of 155mph. In an effort to improve fuel efficiency, BMW have also fitted a stop start function which helps to produce a combined figure of 22.4 mpg with CO2 emissions of 294g/km
BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system comes fitted as standard. Power is transferred to the wheels by an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, fitted as standard. The transmission includes M-Performance specific tuning with a manual mode, launch control and various other modes. The 7-Series also benefits from carbon fibre elements within the structure, Executive Drive Pro which is an active suspension control system linked to the air suspension and Dynamic Damper Control systems and Active Steering.
In terms of aerodynamics, the BMW M760Li xDrive V12 gets a new front apron with two large air intakes and new trim elements on the lower edge of the doors; both are finished in Cerium Grey. The M760Li also features exclusive mirror caps, “V12” badges on the C-pillars and an M logo on the front wings. At the rear, there is a redesigned rear apron with a black central are incorporating an M-Sport exhaust system with Cerium Grey twin tailpipes and an optional M-Sport rear spoiler.
Inside, door sill plates finished in Fine Brushed Aluminium incorporate an illuminated V12 logo. The M-Sport leather steering wheel features an M logo on the and on the reverse of the gearshift paddles; the spoke inlays are finished in Pearl Gloss Chrome. The instrument cluster gets a 205mph speedo although the car is limited to 155mph.
BMW Icon adaptive LED headlights with anti-dazzle High-beam assistant, keyless Comfort Access system and Dynamic safety, Electrically adjustable Comfort seats at the front and rear, BMW Gesture control, sunblinds for the rear windscreen and rear windows, Exclusive Merino leather trim with extended features, an Alcantara headliner, Fineline black fine wood trim with high-gloss metal effect are all included with the BMW M760Li xDrive V12 as standard.
BMW ConnectedDrive products are also standard including the the latest-generation BMW Professional Multimedia system and iDrive Touch Controller. An optional V12 Excellence Design package is available which focuses the car on luxury rather than dynamics. The package trades the M-Sport aerodynamic package for the Pure Excellence exterior design package which includes different rims, brake callipers, chrome work, trim and adds LED fog lamps. Inside the Pure Excellence interior design package includes an Alcantara headliner, door sill plates in Fine Brushed Aluminium with illuminated V12 badge, decorative stitching in the lower section of the instrument panel, fine wood inlays for the seat belt outlet covers, armrest and rear roof grab handles, plus deep-pile floor mats for the rear.
The BMW M760Li xDrive V12 will go on sale towards the end of 2016 with prices being announced at a later date.
