Wednesday, November 21, 2012

2013 BMW 750Li

BMW has had its Vatican II moment, wherein the holy leaders dramatically updated the religion’s philosophy and principles to better fit the modern era. Perhaps somewhat less significant than altering the entire Catholic faith, the changes over the past decade at BMW’s M brand—still aptly categorized as a religion for many—have been fundamental. An M7, long a heretical suggestion at BMW and M GmbH, is under consideration for the next-gen 7-series.

BMW 750Li

In the past, BMW executives spurned the notion of a hard-core, high-revving M version of the 7-series. Alternatives such as the Alpina B7 and a 1980s South Africa–only 745i were authorized and even endorsed, but the real artifact has never been sold. Both BMW USA’s CEO Ludwig Willisch and Matt Russell, the American M division’s product planner, have told us that they want to see it happen for the next-gen 7, which is set to arrive in about three years.

BMW 750Li

Russell explains that in the past, the M philosophy of high-revving, relatively small-displacement engines wouldn’t have worked for the 7. But with modern technology, from M’s awe-inspiring twin-turbo V-8 to active suspension systems, BMW and M can build an M7 that is true to both the sporting promise of the M brand while providing the luxury needed for BMW’s top-of-the-line sedan.