Highlights from press release (copy / paste):
With standard Driving Dynamics Control, the driver can
choose between four settings for shock-absorber firmness, transmission shift
characteristics, engine-throttle response, power-steering assist: Comfort,
Normal, Sport and Sport Plus.
- Integral Active Steering, encompassing not only the original variable-ratio front
steering, but also, new rear-wheel steering. Acting as an overall system, the two
capabilities deliver a new combination of handling ease, maneuverability and
unrivaled stability in dynamic driving conditions: Integral Active Steering is
included in the optional Sport Package.
- BMW Night Vision continues as an option in the new 7, and adds a new
capability: recognizing and indicating individual pedestrians on or near the
roadway.
- The new 7's instrument cluster combines classic elements and new solutions
into a complete, harmonious presentation of driving information. For the first
time in a BMW, the entire cluster is a high-resolution Black Panel display, in which
four classic circular instruments are most prominent; other driving-relevant
displays and readouts - including GPS Navigation, vehicle-monitoring functions,
upcoming service requirements and other information - also appear here in their
various (and function-related) graphic forms.
- With its 10.2-in. monitor, the new iDrive system doesn't just outdo all other
graphic displays in automobiledom to date; its 1280 x 480-pixel resolution
means remarkably true-to-life images. It's a system appropriate to the vehicle
it's in, achieved via up-to-date hard- and software. White-on-black menu lists;
effective symbols and icons; contemporary graphics; and clear, consistent colorcoding
are among the elements that enhance, not only function, but also
esthetics.
- 750i, 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.2 sec.
- When the driver "kicks down" the accelerator, the transmission can
downshift by as many as four gears - just as quickly as if it were shifting down
only one gear.
- The 7 Series' Integral Active Steering now also includes rear-wheel steering
capability. Via a steering spindle and an eccentrically positioned servo motor, the
rear wheels can be steered up to a maximum of 3*. At low speeds, they are
steered oppositely to the front wheels; depending on vehicle speed, the turning
circle can be reduced by up to 27.5 inches - which, combined with the front
wheels' reduced steering ratio, dramatically improves maneuverability.
Varying the rear-wheel steering according to vehicle speed, the system steers them in
the same direction as the fronts at higher speeds, which enhances the more
important attribute of stability at these speed. A further, and perhaps less
expected, benefit is that the rear-wheel steering reduces the yaw rate in a given
road-speed maneuver, which would be perceived by rear-seat passengers as an
improvement in riding comfort.
- A new Electronic
Limited-slip Differential function comes into play in vigorous driving when DSC is
completely de-activated.
- Novel in the 7 Series' market segment is its brand-new combination of a steel
main structure and aluminum roof: The light-metal roof saves approximately 7
kg/15 lb., and because this savings is at the vehicle's highest point, lowers the
center of gravity and further contributes to vehicle dynamics. The doors are also
aluminum, saving a further 48.5 lb. As on the predecessor, the hood and front
fenders are also aluminum, making for a significant contribution to these
automobiles' overall weight efficiency.
- World premiere: BMW Night Vision with enhanced recognition.
- The new 7 comes standard with a 40-GB hard drive, which provides fast access
to navigation data and space for approximately 13GB allocated to music
storage.
- World's first Integrated Owner's Manual.
Also full LED lights will be available as an option (probably from beginning, but all FEP 7er had only Xenon).
Some new pictures: