2011 BMW-7 Series New Entry-Level, Sporty

In line with the automaker’s EfficientDynamics engineering philosophy, BMW announced today that its flagship sedan would get a smaller twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine pumping out 315 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 330 pound-feet of torque from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm.

The unit is based on the same 3.0-liter block found in a host of other BMW models, including cars like the 335i and Z4 sDrive35i. In the 2011 BMW 7-Series, the award-winning engine will reside in the new 740i and 740iL long-wheelbase variant.

Both models will go on sale as 2011 models in spring 2010. Pricing will be announced closer to the sales launch. Despite being the new entry-level models for the 7-Series range, they will be available with a full complement of options and packages, including the M Sport Package, Driver Assistance Package, Luxury Seating Packages, Rear Entertainment Package, and even the BMW Individual Composition Package.

vailable safety features should include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front-side airbags, knee airbags, and curtain-side airbags. BMW's Active Roll Stabilization, designed to counter body lean, is standard on the ALPINA B7 and 760Li and optional on 740 and 750 models. BMW's new Integral Active Steering adds speed-sensitive rear-wheel steering to BMW's Active Steering system and is standard on the B7 and 760 and optional on the 740 and 750. 

Also standard is BMW's Dynamic Driving Control, which allows the driver to adjust the suspension, throttle response, transmission's shift characteristics, and power steering. A navigation system and wireless cell-phone link are standard along with BMW's iDrive control for audio, navigation, and climate settings. 

All models include steering-linked headlights, front- and rear-obstacle detection, and BMW Assist emergency and concierge service. Other available features include blind-spot alert, lane-departure warning, a head-up display, sideview and rearview cameras, and high beams that automatically dim when oncoming traffic is detected. Also offered are a 40-gigabyte hard drive for the audio and navigation systems, which allows for storage of up to 13 gigabytes of music files. A night-vision system, adaptive cruise control, DVD entertainment, and keyless access and engine start also return. The ALPINA B7 has specific suspension tuning, exterior, and interior trim.

Performance & Efficiency Standard Features

• 3.982 cc 4 liters 8 V front longitudinal engine with 89 mm bore, 80 mm stroke, 10 compression ratio, double overhead cam, automatic valve adjustment and four valves per cylinder
• Premium unleaded fuel
• Fuel economy EPA highway (l/100km): 9.8
• Multi-point injection fuel system
• 95 liter fuel tank
• Power: 210 kW, 282 HP @ 5.800 rpm, 295 lb ft @ 4.500 rpm