2009 BMW 7 Series Spied on the Nürburgring
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Description: http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/GeneralFuture/articleId=127892
Now that most of the camouflage has come off the 2009 BMW 7 Series, we can finally see some of the details. The verdict? Inconclusive, as it still looks a lot like the current 7 Series, judging by what we can see.
The overall greenhouse appears almost unchanged, while the front and rear ends show only minor revisions. A taller hood area is the most noticeable difference up front, most likely a consequence of European pedestrian crash test standards. You can see it in the taller, narrower grille and more prominent crease in the hood.
If you hate the distinctive trunk design that pioneered on the 2002 7 Series, you're still out of luck, as it appears intact on this prototype. We expect to see a new taillight design that will reduce the 7's bulky rear end, but anyone hoping for a wholesale redesign will be disappointed.
Like the current 7 Series, there will be the usual range of V8 and V12 engines. The twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 that debuted in the X6 will most likely power the standard version. With 400 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque, the next 7 Series should be one of the faster V8 luxury sedans around, especially if BMW goes ahead with an eight-speed automatic transmission as the rumors suggest. A V12 version with even more power should follow shortly after.
Given BMW's participation in a hybrid development program with Daimler and General Motors, it's a good bet that the 7 Series will offer the option of a gas-electric hybrid drivetrain at some point, too. Diesel is another possible option, although BMW may want to wait and see how the 335d and X5 diesel fare in the U.S. before sending any oil-burning 7 Series our way.
Look for the official pics and information to arrive sometime this summer. An official auto show debut is expected at the Paris auto show in October, with European sales beginning later this year. Sales in the U.S. should start by the spring of 2009.
Author: InsideLineVideo
Source: YouTube
