Auto show highlights
By Michael Binstock
Acorn Automotive Editor
The all new 2002 BMW 7 Series debuts

The new BMW 7 Series made its North American debut at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show last week. The flagship 745i and the long wheelbase 745Li were shown prior to going on sale at the end of this month.

According to BMW, the fourth generation flagship sets new benchmarks for performance, luxury, design and safety with a multitude of technological highlights, an innovative vehicle control concept and dynamic interior and exterior styling.

The all new 4.4 liter V8 engine in the 745i and 745Li may be the same displacement as its predecessor, but this is a technically advanced motor.

Power, flexibility and efficiency are optimized through a level of variability never before seen. Valve timing, valve lift and, for the first time ever, intake tube length, all adapt continuously. This level of control enables the new V8 to set new standards for performance and efficiency. The new 4.4 liter V8 is rated at 325 horsepower and 330 lb-ft. of torque.

This revolutionary powerplant is mated to an equally revolutionary transmission, the world’s first production six-speed automatic. It uses shift-by-wire technology and is operated by an all-new selector behind the steering wheel. This innovative drivetrain yields outstanding performance with a 0 - 60 mph time of 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph.

The new 7 combines a new all-aluminum suspension with Active Roll Stabilization. ARS improves handling by combining special sensors with two active anti-roll bars to reduce body "roll" or "lean".
With iDrive, the new 7 presents a bold new concept for interaction between driver and automobile. In the course of this step into the future, innovative alternatives were even found for the gearshift lever and ignition key.

Along with a unique array of functions, there is also a drastic reduction in and reorientation of controls. The elements of immediate importance for driving are located in and around the steering wheel, and a few frequently used basic functions may be found in the center of the dashboard.

Most of the other functions, including navigation, telephone, climate control and entertainment systems, are all controlled through an intuitively operated Controller, set in the center console, in concert with the Control Display, mounted high in the center of the dashboard for easy reference.

iDrive means simple, safe operation of, and convenient access to, the myriad features at the driver’s disposal.

Delivery of the new 7 Series is due to begin next week. Prices start at $67,850.