BMW's M Sport 7-series (2009): first official pictures

By James Popsys

First Official Pictures

26 June 2009 00:01

BMW has revealed its first ever M Sport 7-series, engine revisions for its best-selling 730d, and a new 740d that will become the most powerful ever Seven diesel when in goes on sale in September 2009. 

There's an M Aerodynamic bodykit with bigger front and rear bumpers, questionable chrome highlights, and some rather tasty 19-inch twin-spoke alloys. On the inside brushed aluminium trim, an anthracite headlining, sport seats, an M Sport steering wheel and M Sport sill inlays complete the package. 

Afraid not - the 740d is equipped with a 306bhp/443lb ft 3.0-litre twin-turbo engine. The result is a 0-62 sprint completed in just 6.3 seconds, a limited top speed of 155mph top speed, 40.9mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 181g/km.

Considering that 85% of 7-series sales are 730ds, this is the one most perspective buyers will want to know about. Thanks to third-generation direct-injection technology, and a little help from BMW's Efficient Dynamics tech, the revised 730d is more economical (fuel consumption is improved from 39.2 to 41.5mpg) and cleaner (CO2 emissions are down from 192 to 178g/km). Figures for the long-wheelbase 730Ld are also improved, from 38.7mpg and 194g/km to 40.9mpg and 180g/km CO2.

Compared with the 730d’s closest rival, the Mercedes S350 CDI, the 730d is also considerably greener. The new S-class can only manage 37mpg while puffing out 199g/km CO2, and it takes 7.8 seconds to reach 62mph, compared with the 730d's 7.2.

Prices for the M Sport kit, the revised 730d and new 740d have yet to be announced, but will be released nearer to the September 2009 launch.

By James Popsys