Description: On-sale date: January 2002 Expected pricing: $65,000+
BMW is launching an all-new 7 Series luxury sedan for the 2002 model year, which goes on sale in January 2002. As expected, the upcoming fourth-generation 7 Series is completely redesigned and re-engineered, but its styling is evolutionary, not revolutionary. The front and rear of the 7 Series are more rounded, massive, but not fat, appearing both elegant and sporty. It has the traditional dual headlamps (Xenon), neon turn signals and new distinctive diagonal rear lights. For maximum performance, 18-, 19- and even 20-inch wheels will be offered. The new 7 Series will have a minimalist cockpit. Although the two traditional round gauges remain, the previous clumsy center console will now be dominated by a central display, accessible to the driver and the front passenger with emphasis on intuitive operation. Eventually, a navigation system and Internet connection will be available. The aluminum chassis is an evolution of the 5 Series with electronically adjusted air suspension and computer controlled hydraulic cylinders for reduction of pitch and roll. Electronics play an important part. BMW promises headlights that follow the road (called ALC for adaptive light control). Active cruise control (ACC) will help drivers maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Also new is an integrated chassis management (ICM) system that contains a refined stability program, active roll compensation, and a force control system that enhances comfort as well as driving security. The electro-hydraulic brake system operates through a computer (brake by wire). This will enable constant pedal forces, shorter stopping distances as well as an automatic parking brake with rollback prevention on hills and at traffic lights. The new 7 Series will only be available with an automatic transmission, a six-speed transmission from ZF with Steptronic that allows manual shifting. The U.S. will get the larger of two V8 models and an enlarged 12-cylinder engine that displaces 6.0-liters and puts out 400 horsepower. (European models will mostly be sold as the six-cylinder 730i, as well as two diesel variants.) A long-wheelbase version of the 7 Series is also expected. Somewhere around 2004, a Rolls-Royce will be available that is derived from the same components. (BMW now owns the Rolls Royce brand.) Manufacturer Info Sources 1-800-334-4269
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