2002 BMW 745i

Power comes from an all-aluminum 4.4-liter V-8 that produces 325 horses. The 760Li will get the 408-hp 6.0-liter V-12 engine.

If the visual aspects of the new 7 Series seem radical, they pale in comparison to the leading-edge technology wrapped within its new sheetmetal. Powertrain, suspension, safety and interior treatments all rise to new levels of sophistication. Both the 745i and the long-wheelbase 745Li share the same 4.4-liter V-8. This all-new, all-alloy 32-valve DOHC engine is bolstered by BMW's Valvtronic and VANOS systems. The first of these techno tweaks permits stepless variation of intake-valve lift; the second allows performance-enhancing changes to the timing of both the intake and exhaust cams. Complementing this dynamic V+V setup is a computer-controlled intake manifold that allows runner lengths to be infinitely varied from 9.1 to 25.6 inches. The net result is a smooth, flexible and free-revving engine that makes a stout 325 horsepower and 330 lb.-ft. of torque while offering near-instantaneous response to throttle inputs.


Shipping that force to the rear wheels is an all-new 6-speed automatic. Produced by ZF and dubbed Mechatronic, this computer-controlled transmission is the first such production unit to offer a half-dozen ratios. Teamed with the torquey new V-8, it promises to give BMW's new super sedan 0-60 mph capabilities in less than six seconds.


On the opposite side of the performance spectrum, stopping power is equally impressive. It's provided by massive 13.7-inch/13.6-inch front/rear vented disc brakes gripped by lightweight aluminum rotors. Fortified with ABS that now incorporates individual electronic proportioning for each wheel as well as Dynamic Brake Control functions, activation of these mega-binders is signaled by the first application of adaptive brake lights, which display the intensity of pedal application to other drivers by varying the array of lamps illuminated.

Suspension continues to be front struts, rear multilink and coils at each corner. High-tech enhancements include Active Roll Stabilization, Dynamic Stability Control and Dynamic Traction Control.

Underpinning the new 7 Series is a chassis that also embraces a full measure of leading-edge hardware and software. The basic design carries over from its predecessor: a coil-spring suspension that uses MacPherson struts with split lower control arms up front and a sophisticated multi-link rear setup. But for this iteration, everything—even the subframes—has been rendered in weight-saving aluminum. The power steering also gets a major overhaul, moving from recirculating-ball to a more precise rack-and-pinion system.


However, the crowning element of the package is a new strain of active anti-roll bar on both the front and rear axles. Electronically actuated and hydraulically controlled, this revolutionary Active Roll Stabilization system ensures a heretofore unprecedented level of body control and helps endow this 4,376-pound 4-door with totally unexpected agility and grace. Reinforcing their efficacy are standard Dynamic Stability Control and Dynamic Traction Control. If that isn't enough, BMW is offering a new version of its Adaptive Ride Package that incorporates rear leveling with an equally new, constantly variable strain of its Electronic Damping Control. Whether set for Normal or Sport, it does a superb job of keeping the 745i poised and in control regardless of road types or conditions. For those who demand the ultimate in smoothness and comfort, the option roster also includes a load-compensating pneumatic suspension that uses air springs in the rear in place of the normal coils.