BMW facelifts 7 Series for 2012

BMW has facelifted its range-topping 7 Series with a subtle exterior makeover that clothes some serious engineering work beneath the surface.

BMW 7 Series (2008 onwards)

BMW 760Li (2009 onwards)

MSN long term reports: BMW 7 Series

Mechanical changes include the introduction of a tri-turbo diesel 750d xDrive model, plus a new petrol-electric ActiveHybrid 7 that is 14 per cent greener than the 740i model it is derived from.

BMW has also retuned the suspension, fitted electric power steering, increased the amount of soundproofing and standardised an eight-speed automatic and rear air suspension on all models.

The 2012 BMW 7 Series can be differentiated at the front by full LED headlights and a revised kidney grille that features nine vertical slats rather than 12. The front apron has been sharpened up and the side repeater indicators are now housed in the door mirrors.

There are new multi-function instruments inside, plus an updated central Control Display with 3D graphics. BMW offers a new 1,200-watt Bang & Olufsen stereo and a revised rear seat entertainment package. Even the seats have been given a makeover and are now more comfortable.

The best-selling 730d now emits just 148g/km CO2 and averages a remarkable 50.4mpg, despite producing 258hp from its straight-six turbodiesel. Interestingly, BMW has not yet chosen to offer a four-cylinder diesel 7 Series, clearly considering its six-cylinder engine economical enough for now.

Instead, it has expanded the range to include a second-generation hybrid model, mating 55hp electric motor to the 320hp straight six from the 740i. So equipped, this car blends 41.5mpg capability with a 0-62-mph time of just 5.7 seconds. CO3 emissions of 158g/km are “significantly reduced” and drop beneath the key 160g/km barrier.

The 750d xDrive will be the new choice of enthusiasts though. Producing 381hp, it blends four-wheel drive with an ample 546lb ft of torque, to give off-the-line acceleration to 62mpoh in just 4.9 seconds. Despite this, the new 7 Series superdiesel also averages 44.1mpg and emits 169g/km CO2.

This model, however, has yet to be confirmed for the UK.

A further economy aid comes courtesy of the BMW Driving Experience Control switch familiar to 3 Series and 5 Series drivers. This allows the new ECO PRO driving mode to be selected, optimising the car for best efficiency and giving the driver feedback on how green their style is.

The revised BMW 7 Series will go on sale later in 2012: prices will be confirmed later in the year.