2013 BMW 7 Series

July 22, 2012

BMW has given its flagship 7 Series a facelift, although at first glance it might be hard to notice the changes.

That’s because the external modifications are limited to a revised grille, full-LED headlights, indicators in the door mirrors, a chrome strip embedded into the rear valence and a redesigned front bumper. However, beneath the skin the updates are more comprehensive.

2013 BMW 7 Series. Scroll down for more images.

Adjustments to the existing petrol and diesel engines mean higher outputs, plus they’re also more efficient thanks to the fitment of a stop-start system and an ‘Eco Pro’ driving mode. A new addition to the range is the 750d xDrive variant, which features all-wheel drive and a new M Performance TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder diesel that’s reckoned to be the most powerful engine of its kind. Whether or not it will be offered in the UK remains to be seen, though.

Chassis tweaks have focussed on enhancing the ride quality, and to that end the dampers have been replaced, new rubber bushings have been specified and the suspension’s electronic control systems have had their software updated.

The emphasis on extra refinement continues into the cabin, where new front seats are claimed to offer better comfort and lateral support. Noise levels should be lower too, courtesy of better soundproofing.

For the driver, the multi-function display behind the steering wheel now changes the instruments according to driving mode selected, while the centrally-mounted screen has been upgraded to use high-resolution 3D graphics.

Pricing for the 2013 BMW 7 Series has yet to be confirmed.