BMW 7-series news - Seven sees - 2008

Those who expected BMW's next-gen 7-Series to look like the badboy Concept CS prepare to be disappointed - here are the first pics of Munich's biggest saloon.

Mmmmm... First impressions aren't great. Anyone else simply see a larger, softened 5-Series?

Anyhoo, looks aside the new 7-Series has some pretty impressive features. First up there's a Side View camera option.

This system - that they say is a world first but a similar idea has bee seen on at least the Rolls Phantom Coupe and Infiniti FX50 before. Maybe this one's more advanced? - works with the parking sensors to aid slow speed manoeuvring.

Essentially, they peer around corners allowing drivers to negotiate their way 'through a narrow gate' or a 'partially obscured junction.'

No mention of peering 'up the skirt of passing ladies' in the press release, however...

The new BMW 7-Series is also available with an advanced Night Vision system with a pedestrian recognition system.

This device analyses video data of human behaviour and alerts the driver if it detects a human form wandering into the path of the vehicle.

Three engines are available including one diesel and two petrol engines. The 730d uses a new all-aluminium 3.0-litre straight-six producing 245hp, while the BMW 750i and 750Li use the 4395cc twin-turbo 407bhp V8 from the X6.

All three engines, according to BMW, deliver more power, use less fuel and produce fewer emissions than the models they replace.

Both petrol models will also be offered with a long-wheelbase option.

The new 7-Series goes on sale in the UK on 15 November, 2008.