BMW has confirmed that the company will launch the new 7 Series in Australia next year with a twin-turbo V8 developing 600Nm of torque. We brought you a first view of the new model late last week (more here) and BMW has now come through with the official information on the new car.

Named 750i for the short-wheelbase model or 750Li for the longer car, the 7 Series with the forced-induction eight develops as much torque as the V12 fitted to the current 760Li, but across a broader rev range. Peak torque is on tap between 1750 and 4500rpm, with maximum power of 300kW occurring between 5500 and 6400rpm.

The V8 models will reach 100km/h from a standing start in 5.2 seconds and use 11.4L/100km of fuel in combined-cycle testing, for a CO2 emissions figure of 266g/km.

Lower-spec models in the new 7 Series range will be labelled the 740i and 740Li, both powered by a twin-turbo inline six developing 240kW of power at 5800rpm and 450Nm of torque between 1500 and 4500rpm.

Acceleration to 100km/h takes 5.9 seconds (with the LWB model a tenth of a second slower, at 6.0 seconds). Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are 9.9L/100km (SWB)/10.0L/100km (LWB) and 232g/km (SWB)/235g/km (LWB) respectively.

Both six and V8 models are electronically limited to 250kmh and employ turbocharging and High-Precision Direct Injection to comply with the Euro V emissions standard. Drive is via a six-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels.

BMW engineers have gone with aluminium for the roof, doors, bonnet and side panels, also choosing the lightweight metal for suspension components, differential housing and the engine blocks and heads. Use of different tensile-strength steels throughout the body structure enhances both safety and weight reduction.

Long-wheelbase models -- stretched 140mm between the wheels -- are equipped with airbag rear suspension for improved ride comfort. Dynamic Damping Control links the damper rates, transmission shift points, throttle and steering response for three different modes, Comfort, Normal and Sports.

The iDrive system and the multi-function steering wheel have both been revised for the new 7 Series range and complement the 'Black Panel' instrument display, larger 10.2-inch information readout in the centre fascia and the relocation of the transmission selector to the centre console.

Standard features include adaptive bi-xenon headlights with day running light facility, two-stage brake lights and fog lights.

A long list of options extends to rear-wheel steering, 'Dynamic Drive' anti-sway control, cruise control with 'Stop & Go', Lane Keep Assist with speed limit indicator, Lane Change Warning, Head-Up Display, High-Beam Assistant, Side View and reversing cameras.

» Watch the Carsales Network's video on the new BMW 7 series here

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