Quite a week for the part-carbon BMW 7 series!
First the Alpina B7 with its twin-turbo V8 and optional gold deco stencils outside.
And now this M760i with a twin-turbo V12 — and also AWD for this generation!
The coolest part of the M760i route — which is likely to cost significantly more than the ALPINA — is definitely its dark satin body accents.
That, of course, and the techno-font V12 and M760i badges throughout.
The 62-mph sprints for the two cars show a curious contrast: 3.9s for the M760i plays 3.7s for the Alpina B7. On any US test, however, the M760i is likely to launch-mode itself damn close to 3 seconds dead. On to Jonny Lieberman with more….!
2017 BMW M760i xDrive
- The allure of the most powerful BMW V12 production engine.
- First BMW 7 Series M Performance Automobile.
Woodcliff Lake, N.J.: February 11, 2016 5:55 pm EST/ 2:55 pm PST…Today, BMW announced the all-new BMW M760i xDrive, the latest addition to the BMW M Performance line-up. With the introduction of the 2017 BMW M760i xDrive, the sixth generation BMW 7 Series adds the first M Performance TwinPower Turbo 12-cylinder to its offerings. The all-new BMW M760i xDrive combines luxurious driving, style, safety and innovative technologies while embodying M Performance dynamics with the integration of the first 12-cylinder gasoline engine with M Performance Twin Power Turbo technology. The BMW M760i xDrive will arrive early in 2017 and MRSP will be announced closer to launch.
The allure of the most powerful BMW V12 production engine.
The M Performance TwinPower Turbo 12-cylinder gasoline engine in the new BMW M760i xDrive has a displacement of 6,592 cc, developing 600 hp (preliminary figure) at 5,500 rpm and peak torque of 590 lb-ft from as low as 1,500 rpm. These performance figures enable the luxury sedan to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.9 seconds (preliminary figure) and on to a governed top speed of 155 mph. During the development of the all-aluminum block, the engineers focused on maximizing rigidity while also minimizing weight. Using a closed-deck construction combined with bolts holding the cylinder head down on the bed plate of the crankcase, the engine ensures maximum stability on the cylinder liners. Double bolts on the main bearings with an additional connection to the side panels through threaded support bushes and bolts reduce the influence of lateral forces from the crankshaft on the crankcase. Iron-coated aluminum pistons, forged connecting rods assembled using the cracking process, and a forged crankshaft, ensure vibrations and noise are kept to an absolute minimum.
In addition, the M Performance TwinPower Turbo 12-cylinder gasoline engine boasts an array of special technical features allowing even better use of the potential provided by the engine’s design. M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology and High Precision Injection enable sharp and direct responses to even the slightest movement of the accelerator, a linear torque curve, exceptional efficiency and performance are all special traits of this new V12 engine.
M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology.
Joining the V12 under an engine cover bearing “M Performance” lettering are two mono-scroll turbochargers in a compact arrangement on the outside of the two rows of cylinders, each supplying six cylinders with compressed air. The turbochargers stand out with their high level of compressor and turbine efficiency, and their positioning provides the ideal platform for short, straight and flow-efficient connections between the exhaust ports and the turbochargers. Two sophisticated air-to-water intercoolers cool the compressed air coming from each of the turbochargers in order to maximize the density of the intake charge. An additional water pump feeds the separate intercooler coolant circuit, whose air-to-water heat exchangers are now positioned directly on the intake manifold for the first time.
M sport exhaust system delivers an emotionally rich V12 soundtrack.
In order to reduce backpressure, the M sport exhaust system are routed as straight as possible and are as large possible in diameter given packaging constraints. The evolution of the rear silencers and flap activation system allows a broad acoustic spread, supplying everything from maximum refinement to a full-bodied 12-cylinder soundtrack. The system adapts to the situation at hand and the driver’s preferences with an emotionally rich 12-cylinder soundtrack that accentuates the dynamic character of the BMW M760i xDrive.
The catalytic converters of the 12-cylinder engine are equipped with cutting-edge exhaust gas sensors that quickly reach their optimum operating temperature thanks to their positioning close to the engine.
Injection system: Precision with 2900 psi of pressure.
High Precision Injection optimizes the combustion process, contributing to the engine’s extraordinarily efficient utilization of the energy. Injectors positioned centrally in the cylinder head, constantly measure the fuel precisely and spray it into the combustion chambers in finely atomized form and at up to 2900 psi of pressure. The fuel is dispersed according to an ideal model calculated in complex processes, allowing extremely consistent and clean combustion. This also has a positive effect on emissions and engine acoustics. The mixture cooling brought about by the directly injected fuel also allows a higher compression ratio than that achieved by a turbocharged engine with manifold injection. The engine therefore works extremely efficiently, delivering greater performance and lower fuel consumption. The M Performance 12-cylinder engine also features Double-VANOS continuously variable camshaft timing. This technology allows the engine to breathe optimally across the entire engine speed range.
The oil supply to the M Performance 12-cylinder engine has been similarly optimized. Its volume flow-controlled pump operates only when required and is therefore extremely efficient. The six-chamber pendulum-slide pump only supplies the amount of oil required by the engine in whatever state of operation it finds itself in. Instead of a manual dipstick, a display in the instrument cluster can be called up at any time during a journey to show the oil level status.
8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission.
The 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission on the new BMW M760i significantly contributes to the dynamic ability of this M Performance model. The M Performance-specific tuning of the shift programs, delivering sportier gear changes and even quicker downshifts throughout the rev range, has been specially adapted to the characteristics of the V12 engine. The specific transmission tuning is also perceptible to the occupants through the functions of the Driving Dynamics Control switch. Carefully avoiding converter slip outside of gear changes results in a direct, sporty connection between the driveline and the engine.
The 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission is equipped with a Launch Control function paving the way for drivers to achieve optimum acceleration on demand. The 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission can also be operated via the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel for an ultra-sporty driving style. In manual mode, the transmission follows the classical blueprint by holding the selected gear even when the engine hits the rev limiter.
Harmony of performance and ride comfort.
The all-new BMW M760i xDrive, just like the sixth generation BMW 7 Series, uses BMW’s intelligent lightweight design utilizing high-rigidity and lightweight carbon-fiber elements in the passenger cell’s Carbon Core structure. This technology results in a low center of gravity essential for agility and dynamic handling.
Performance mixed-size tires optimize contact with the road. The all-new BMW M760i xDrive is fitted as standard with exclusive, newly designed double-spoke 760M 20-inch M light-alloy wheels in a Cerium Grey metallic matt finish and with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires (front: 245/40 R20, rear: 275/35 R20). This wheel/tire combination provides a noticeable improvement in driving dynamics without compromising the car’s cruising comfort.
Active Comfort Drive with Road Preview.
The new BMW M760i xDrive is equipped with the innovative Active Comfort Drive with Preview suspension system first introduced in the recently launched BMW 7 Series model range. Active Comfort Drive with Road Preview is an active suspension control system, which links up with two-axle air suspension and the Dynamic Damper Control system to deliver exceptional spring and damper comfort, not to mention extremely low vibration levels. It includes the updated version of the Dynamic Drive system, which reduces roll at the front and rear axles. The result is dynamic driving characteristics coupled with comfortable suspension tuning. Active roll stabilization is now carried out electromechanically and allows body roll forces to be cancelled out particularly swiftly and precisely when taking corners at speed. The adjustable anti-roll bars allow the suspension system the greatest possible freedom of movement, which raises comfort levels when driving in a straight line. The comfort-enhancing effect is further heightened by the standard air suspension, which has been retuned specially for the new BMW M760i xDrive and adapted to the car’s more dynamic character.
Integral Active Steering.
The new BMW M760i xDrive is fitted as standard with Integral Active Steering. The planetary gear set previously used at the front axle has given way to a variable steering rack ratio. By employing a more direct front axle steering ratio and turning the rear wheels in either the opposing or the same direction when steering – depending on the specific driving situation – this system reduces steering effort and increases both maneuverability in urban traffic and agility and directional stability during high-paced driving, while also ensuring an especially smooth and composed response when changing lane and cornering. The differing characteristics permitted by the steering electronics are linked directly to the Driving Dynamics Control switch and activated by selecting the relevant driving program. For their introduction in the BMW M760i xDrive, the characteristics of the steering system and all the other chassis control systems have been tuned specifically to the dynamic character of this 7 Series variant.
Driving Dynamics Control switch with Adaptive mode.
The Driving Dynamics Control switch in the new BMW M760i xDrive also allows the driver to activate Adaptive mode. This feature includes an anticipatory chassis control function and automatic selection of the driving mode best suited to the situation at hand. The advance information for regulating the combination of chassis systems is gleaned from the driving style analysis readings, data from the navigation system and a stereo camera. All the driving modes of the Driving Dynamics Control switch have been comprehensively retuned to suit the dynamic character of the new BMW M760i xDrive.
BMW xDrive all-wheel drive.
This intelligent system is able to distribute torque fully variable between the front and rear axle, thereby ensuring an extremely high level of dynamic ability, agility and traction. The BMW xDrive system has been given a rear-wheel bias – and therefore even sportier tuning – in order to fortify the BMW M760i xDrive with the driving dynamics typically offered by BMW M Performance models.
Innovative driver assistance systems.
The Driving Assistant Plus system has been expanded for the new BMW 7 Series model range to include the Traffic Jam Assistant, Lane keeping assistant with active side collision protection, Rear collision prevention and Crossing traffic warning functions – and features as part of the specification for the new BMW M760i xDrive… The new generation of the Surround View system also includes a 3D View and Panorama View option in the Control Display.
M Aerodynamic Package.
The all-new BMW M760i xDrive underlines the refined sporting character, exclusive elegance, advanced technology and unbeatable build quality it shares with all of its new 7 Series siblings. The M aerodynamic package fitted as standard imbues the car’s proportions and precise lines with even more of the presence for which the brand is renowned. The newly designed front fascia features two large air intakes to the left and right, which take on a still more voluminous appearance in the absence of fog lamps. Running along the upper edge of each intake is a Cerium Grey trim strip. The kidney grille bars and active air flap louvers are also fronted in Cerium Grey and have high-gloss Black sides. The grille elements are framed by a Cerium Grey surround. Along the sides of the car, the Cerium Grey trim elements on the lower edge of the doors, the Air Breathers and the door handle trim provide new surroundings for the prominent double upper side character line . Exclusive mirror caps and“V12” badges on the C-pillars in Cerium Grey provide fitting adornments for the car’s flanks. And exclusive 20-inch M light-alloy wheels with a new double-spoke design and surfaces painted in matt Cerium Grey advertise the car’s elevated dynamic aspirations as a BMW M Performance Automobile. The sporting design of the rear fascia with its black central area highlights the M sports exhaust system’s Cerium Grey twin tailpipe embellishers with exclusive V12 geometry. The M rear spoiler optimizes the flow of air, while the trunk handle strip, which links the L-shaped LED rear lights, the model badge on the right-hand side of the trunk lid and the xDrive lettering on the left, ensures the performance potential of the BMW M760i xDrive is evident at the rear of the car.
An interior shaped by sporting elegance.
Inside the car, carefully arranged M accents provide an elegantly sporting allure. Gleaming door sill plates in Fine Brushed Aluminum with an illuminated V12 logo indicate the presence of the range-topping engine underneath the trunk. The rim of the exclusive M leather steering wheel features an M logo on the center spoke and gearshift paddles on the reverse. The multifunction buttons on the steering wheel spokes and the spoke inlays are finished in Pearl Gloss Chrome. The model designation is positioned at the center of the dial, offering a clear hint as to the performance the BMW M760i xDrive is ready to unleash. The M pedals and M driver’s footrest in stainless steel with black rubber inserts provide an additional sporty-technical touch and accentuate the character of the
BMW M760i xDrive as a driver’s car. A BMW Individual decorative inlay – in Piano Finish Black and bearing a V12 badge – positioned in the area around the selector lever and iDrive Controller lends even greater exclusivity to the interior.
BMW ConnectedDrive.
The all-new BMW M760i xDrive is offered with a wide range of all-new or optimized assistance systems including semi-automated driving systems. Also, unique is the number of functions that can be integrated in the car using Apps, either via the built-in SIM card or a smartphone and operated using the iDrive control system.
Courtesy of the embedded BMW ConnectedDrive Services SIM card the Advanced Real Time Traffic Information function are part of the standard Navigation System. The SIM card also allows over-the-air automatic navigation map updates free of charge for the first three years after the vehicle is first registered. Intelligent connectivity in the new BMW 7 Series also supports interactive traffic sign updating which is new in the auto industry. Images of roadside traffic signs recorded by the Speed Limit Info camera, along with their position data, are relayed anonymously to a BMW server, which then makes any necessary changes to keep the map database up-to-date at all times. Drivers who activate this function are helping to keep the navigation database accurate, reliable and up-to-date not only for themselves but also for all BMW ConnectedDrive customers.
BMW Head-Up Display: optimized graphics, larger projection area.
The new-generation BMW Head-Up Display acts as a highly effective aid to driver concentration as it presents a broad range of information in graphical format on the windshield into the driver’s field of view. This standard system projects information about road speed, speed limits, Check Control messages, status and warning messages from other assistance systems, turn-by-turn directions and telephone and entertainment menus directly into the driver’s field of vision, where they can be read without looking away from the road. The new-generation Head-Up Display comes with a 75 percent larger projection area, while the displayed information and images offer further improved quality and detail with graphics in full color. BMW Assist eCall offers an unparalleled service.
BMW Assist eCall is also part of standard specification for the BMW M760i xDrive and offers world-leading functionality. The system springs into action automatically, as well as when help is summoned manually. In the event of an accident, BMW Assist eCall sets up a connection to the BMW call center via the SIM card embedded in the vehicle; call center staff then make direct contact with the occupants. At the same time, the vehicle’s location and the potential risk of injury to its occupants are transmitted to ensure a quick rescue response, even if nobody in the vehicle is able to talk.
iDrive 5.0 with touch display and Gesture Control.
The iDrive operating system is now available with touch screen technology offered in conjunction with the standard Navigation system. Operating the iDrive has become easier via the touch screen technology. Voice command and actual button selection is also available.
The iDrive system also works in conjunction with standard Gesture Control, which was premiered in the new BMW 7 Series in 2015. Pre-selected hand movements in the vicinity of the center console allow 3D sensors to register and fulfill requested actions. Gestures to adjust the audio volume control, accept or reject incoming phone calls can be easily executed. There is also a configurable gesture whose associated function can be customized from a selection of possible functions, such as navigation to the home address or deactivation of the screen. Gesture Control can be used as an alternative to conventional means of operation without the need for separate activation. The availability of this control method is indicated in applicable situations by a corresponding icon in the Control Display.
BMW Ultimate Benefits™ for 7.
The new BMW 7 Series sets new benchmarks in its class for a luxurious and convenient ownership experience with enhanced BMW Ultimate Benefits now expanding to vehicle services. A time-saving service, providing white glove treatment, priority status and priceless BMW access to 7 Series customers that is unprecedented in this segment. The Ultimate Benefits for 7 Program encompasses BMW Encore® Delivery, Priority Service appointments, Vehicle Valet service, a comparable Service Loaner in the interim, Supreme Vehicle Spa treatment and 24/7 Concierge Support.
BMW Encore® Delivery provides a one-on-one follow-up appointment dedicated to answering all questions about features of the customer’s new vehicle. This second delivery is scheduled at a time of convenience and at the customer’s preferred location.
Priority Service Appointments allow for prioritized service appointments, scheduled within 48 hours of the owner’s initial request and at their convenience. The customer also has the option to participate in an exclusive Vehicle Valet service, at a customer’s preferred location. The new 7 Series customer also benefits from a complimentary Supreme vehicle spa treatment, at their convenience. A guaranteed and comparable Service Loaner vehicle will be provided when needed to assure convenience at all times. Lastly, a 24/7 Concierge will be available to assist with mobility services and other ownership related inquiries.
The All-New BMW M760i xDrive.
Technical Specifications.
BMW M760i xDrive | ||||||||
Body | ||||||||
No of doors/seats | 4/5 | |||||||
Length/width/height (unladen) | mm | 5238/1902/1485 | ||||||
Wheelbase | mm | 3210 | ||||||
Track, front/rear | mm | 1611/1640 | ||||||
Ground clearance | mm | 135 | ||||||
Turning circle | m | 12.9 | ||||||
Fuel tank capacity | approx ltr | 78 | ||||||
Engine oil1) | ltr | 9.52) | ||||||
Weight, unladen, to DIN/EU | kg | 2180/2255 | ||||||
Max load to DIN | kg | tbc | ||||||
Max permissible weight | kg | tbc | ||||||
Max axle load, front/rear | kg | tbc | ||||||
Max trailer load,
braked (12%)/unbraked |
kg | 2300/750 | ||||||
Max roofload/towbar download | kg | 100/100 | ||||||
Luggage comp capacity | ltr | 515 | ||||||
Air resistance | cd x A | 0.27 x 2.42 | ||||||
Engine | ||||||||
Config/No of cyls/valves | V/12/4 | |||||||
Engine technology | M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology: two mono-scroll turbochargers, High Precision Direct Injection, Double-VANOS variable camshaft control |
|||||||
Effective capacity | cc | 6592 | ||||||
Stroke/bore | mm | tbc | ||||||
Compression ratio | :1 | tbc | ||||||
Fuel grade | min RON 91 | |||||||
Output | kW/hp | 441/6002) | ||||||
at | rpm | 55002) | ||||||
Torque | Nm | 8002) | ||||||
at | rpm | 15002) | ||||||
Electrical System | ||||||||
Battery/installation | Ah/– | 105/load compartment | ||||||
Alternator | AW | 2 x 180/5040 | ||||||
Driving dynamics and safety | ||||||||
Suspension, front | Double track control arm axle with separate lower track arm level, aluminium, small steering roll radius, anti-dive, air suspension with automatic self-levelling |
|||||||
Suspension, rear | Five-link axle, aluminium, with steering function, anti-squat and anti-dive, double acoustic separation, air suspension with automatic self-levelling |
|||||||
Brakes, front | Four-piston fixed-calliper disc brakes, vented | |||||||
Brakes, rear | Single-piston floating-calliper disc brakes, vented | |||||||
Driving stability systems | Standard: DSC incl. ABS, ASC and DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Dry Braking function, Fading Compensation, Start-Off Assistant, cross-linking with xDrive all-wheel-drive system, Dynamic Damper Control |
|||||||
Safety equipment | Standard: airbags for driver and front passenger, side airbags for driver and front passenger, head airbags for 1st and 2nd seat row, driver’s side knee airbag, three-point inertia-reel belts on all seats, integrated at the front with belt tensioners and belt force limiter, crash sensors, tyre pressure indicator |
|||||||
Steering | Electric Power Steering (EPS) with Servotronic function, Integral Active Steering |
|||||||
Steering transmission, overall | :1 | 16.9 | ||||||
Tyres, front/rear | 245/40 R20 90Y
275/35 R20 102Y |
|||||||
Rims, front/rear | 8.5J x 20 light-alloy
10J x 20 light-alloy |
|||||||
BMW M760Li xDrive | ||||||||
Transmission | ||||||||
Type of transmission | 8-speed Steptronic Sport | |||||||
Gear ratios I | :1 | 5.000 | ||||||
II | :1 | 3.200 | ||||||
III | :1 | 2.143 | ||||||
IV | :1 | 1.720 | ||||||
V | :1 | 1.313 | ||||||
VI | :1 | 1.000 | ||||||
VII | :1 | 0.823 | ||||||
VIII | :1 | 0.640 | ||||||
R | :1 | 3.478 | ||||||
Final drive | :1 | 2.813 | ||||||
Performance | ||||||||
Weight-to-power ratio (DIN) | kg/kW | 5.12) | ||||||
Output per litre | kW/ltr | 65.22) | ||||||
Acceleration 0–100 km/h | s | 3.92) | ||||||
Maximum speed | km/h | 250 | ||||||
BMW EfficientDynamics | ||||||||
BMW EfficientDynamics standard measures | Brake Energy Regeneration with recuperation display, Electric Power Steering (EPS), Auto Start Stop function, Optimum Shift Indicator, ECO PRO mode
with coasting function and Proactive Driving Assistant, BMW EfficientLightweight, optimised aerodynamic attributes, active air vents, on-demand operation of ancillary units, map-controlled oil pump, detachable a/c compressor, rear differential with optimised warm-up behaviour, efficiency- and weight-optimised all-wheel drive |
|||||||
Specifications apply to ACEA markets / data relevant to homologation apply in part only to Germany (weight)
Tom Burkart is the founder and managing editor of Car-Revs-Daily.com, an innovative and rapidly-expanding automotive news magazine.
He holds a Journalism JBA degree from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Tom currently resides in Charleston, South Carolina with his two amazing dogs, Drake and Tank.
Mr. Burkart is available for all questions and concerns by email Tom(at)car-revs-daily.com.