BMW M7 Off The Cards: Report
THE HEAD OF BMW’s high-performance M division has effectively quashed rumours of a big-power “M7” variant of the 7 Series limousine, saying that such a model would be unviable for the manufacturer.
Given the upcoming BMW760i already offers more than enou
THE HEAD OF BMW's high-performance M division has effectively quashed rumours of a big-power "M7" variant of the 7 Series limousine, saying that such a model would be unviable for the manufacturer.
Given the upcoming BMW760i already offers more than enough performance (400kW and 750Nm, to be specific), there's little justification for creating a car with more power - particularly when that car is meant to retain a luxury feel.
As such, an M7 would likely struggle to find many sales, and would be a burden for BMW.
"We’ve looked at that [the M7] and decided not to do it," said M division chief Kay Segler to Automotive News.
"The 760 with awd is a very strong offer. The M sales would be too small for our total investment."
Without the M7, the sportiest 7 Series available will be the 760Li with the M Sport package (pictured).
The M Sport package adds a range of cosmetic improvements to the interior and exterior, including a set of reshaped bumpers and a quartet of 19-inch alloys. BMW's traction-enhancing Dynamic Drive system is also included, while a set of bigger 20-inch alloys are optional.
Available in Europe from September, buyers of locally-delivered 7 Series models will be able to option the M Sports pack from September 2009, with the 760Li M Sport available from October.
Segler also ruled out giving the upcoming X1 crossover the same treatment BMW gave the X5 M and X6 M, however it seems that the 1 Series still holds potential as a future entry-level M division model.
"An X1 is not a car that we would have," Segler said.
"Give me a year or so to look into the 1 series."