BMW has been on a mission to refresh its 7 Series line-up for 2017. Last week we saw the reveal of the 2017 ALPINA B7, the super-exclusive, uber-powerful 7 Series. Well, BMW has just revealed another model in the 7 series family tree. The 2017 BMW M760Li xDrive combines luxury and performance in a long wheelbase package. Note that the “M” in the name plate is no mistake.
This 7 Series integrates the first 12-cylinder engine with “M Performance Twin Power Turbo Technology” that generates ample power. BMW claims it to be their “most powerful V12”, producing 600HP and 590lb.-ft. of torque. Twin turbo’s help to achieve this power output alongside the 3.9 second 0-100km/h time, and 250km/h (electronically limited) top speed. These numbers are very similar to the ALPINA B7, and we suspect that the two share the same platform. The V12 is paired to an 8 Speed Steptronic transmission that delivers quick shifts and features launch control along with a Dynamic Control switch to adjust shifting characteristics. An M sport exhaust system is mostly straight pipe routing at the largest possible diameter which ensures optimal flow. A flap activation system helps adjust the sound output from the mighty V12, supplying everything from maximum refinement to a full 12-cylinder soundtrack.
To perfect handling and driving dynamics, the M760Li uses a combination of high rigidity and lightweight carbon fiber to craft the passengers cell and lower the overall center of gravity. Combining this with 20-inch M light-alloy wheels, Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, xDrive all-wheel-drive and a full array of adjustable suspension features makes the perfect recipe for a strong all-around luxury sedan. Suspension features such as Active Comfort Drive, Integral Active Steering, and Driving Dynamics Control allow for a large amount of driving characteristic adjust-ability. All these features have been explained a little bit more in-depth in the ALPINA B7 article.
Bearing the “M badge” brings new elements to the interior and exterior design. The M760Li features an “M Aerodynamic Package” which adds a newly designed front apron with two large air intakes removing fog lamps. “Cerium Grey” trim has been added in various spots around the exterior including the kidney grille bars and active air flap louvres (as found in the ALPINA B7). Exclusive mirror caps and “V12” badges on the C-pillars help flaunt the exact model. Quad tail pipes are integrated into the rear bumper to add more appeal to the eye while the M rear spoiler optimizes the flow of air over the vehicle. Carrying through to the interior, the M760Li has M accents and door sill plates in Fine Brushed Aluminum with an illuminated V12 logo to define the model and engine, in case it’s not already evident from the outside. Technology is abundant in the cabin. This 7 Series features BMW’s Connected Drive (a suite of apps and internet connectivity), Heads-up Display and iDrive 5.0 with touch and gesture control (to allow the drive to interact with the iDrive interface using nothing more than gestures).
The BMW M760Li xDrive is the perfect vehicle for those that want the same amount of performance as an ALPINA B7 with a lot less glamour.
