BMW releases the first footage of the new 2013 BMW 7 Series LCI. The facelifted 7 Series was unveiled this past week and brings out a series of cosmetic changes, both inside and outside the car, along with a variety of technology and power upgrades.
The videos below gives us a first look at the exterior and interior design changes from up-close, and as a bonus, we have included some ad-hoc videos from a private showing of the new 7 Series Facelift. The invite-only event took place in Santa Barbara during the U.S. press launch of the M6 Convertible and 6 Series Gran Coupe, and we had the opportunity to see both the petrol-powered 7er, as well as the new ActiveHybrid 7.
The 2013 BMW 7 Series goes on sale this July with the U.S. market receiving the 740i, 750, 760Li and ActiveHybrid models. Compared to the current model, some of the noticeable changes are at the front where now the flagship model gets “squarish” LED corona lights with an LED turn signal indicator placed in the headlight. Each headlight contains 8 LEDs. While the previous model featured a kidney grille with 9 and 12 slats, based on the Night Vision Camera option, the facelifted 7 comes now with a single configuration of 9 slats.
The turn signals are now part of the housing of side mirrors. At the back, chrome stripes connect reflectors. The taillights’ shape remains unchanged while featuring a darker red color.
Some of our videos below quickly illustrate some of the interior changes that relate to the iDrive system. The new 3D MMI system is refreshed with a new CPU that renders the information faster than before. Its 1.3 GHz processor and dedicated 3D graphics card, bring new levels of animation and dynamic transitions. The map feature now displays 3D city models for selected cities. Other improvements to maps include a satellite view, enhanced route calculation, route learning and Efficiency and Green Driving Assistant.
BMW now offers Digital LCD Instrument Gauges that change the display based on the driving mode selected, from Comfort to Sport+ and ECO PRO.
The optional Rear Seat Entertainment Package now includes an iDrive controller and two 9.2-inch screens which, instead of being integrated into the front seats, appear to be “floating” on them.
Let’s have a look.
