Backing this little jewel is an all-new six-speed automatic transmission, the first of its kind to make it into true volume production. Fitted with adaptive controls and near-ideal ratios, BMW's "Mechatronic" box unflinchingly delivers smooth, positive gear changes that perfectly complement the character of the new V-8. Despite a curb weight of 4376 lb, the factory says a 745i will bolt from 0-60 mph in just 5.9 sec. We suspect it might prove even quicker. While neither the standard 745i nor the 745Li is fitted with Steptronic (a defensive move to avoid gas-guzzler tax), cars with the optional Sport Package will include this do-it-yourself shift feature. Replacing Steptronic on U.S. base cars is a button-activated shift-limit feature on the steering wheel that allows a driver to manually select the highest gear the transmission can access.
BMW engineers exhibited equal dedication when it came to tweaking the chassis. While basic underpinnings remain as before-struts with split lower control arms up front and a multilink rear setup-everything, including the subframes, is now rendered in lightweight aluminum to help reduce sprung and unsprung weight. Improved isolation techniques allowed for the previous recirculating-ball steering to be replaced by a new, more precise rack-and-pinion unit that offers both variable assist and variable ratio. In addition to selectable Dynamic Stability Control (now augmented by a new Dynamic Traction Control that permits more slip in particularly challenging conditions like sand, gravel, or snow), the new 7 Series also introduces Active Roll Stabilization. Using electrically controlled/ hydraulically actuated anti-roll bars, body displacement is restricted to a scant 0.5 at cornering loads under 0.6 g. From there to 0.8 g, the system does permit a bit more lean-to a still modest 1.8-reminding a driver that even in this premier BMW, the laws of physics still apply.
Collectively, these undercarriage improvements yield exceptional handling traits. This 745i displays equal measures of confidence whether it's cruising in triple digits on an autostrada or taking on a challenging two-lane backroad. While the steering feels a tad heavy on center, weighting and linearity fall right into place as the twisties intensify. As for Active Roll Control, it simply must be experienced to be fully appreciated. Our test cars also were fitted with the optional Adaptive Ride Package, which includes a new, constantly variable version of BMW's Electronic Damping Control. In Normal or Sport settings, it now automatically-and most effectively-optimizes the shock action to match road surface and dynamic conditions.
BMW also upped the ante in the stopping department. Larger-diameter rotors-huge 13.7-in. fronts and 13.6-in. rears-are now gripped by aluminum calipers, vented all around and augmented by the latest strain of four-channel ABS. Those behind can gauge the intensity of their use, courtesy of an adaptive brakelight setup that starts with just stoplamps and then progressively illuminates the taillights and red rear fogs as pedal pressure increases.
Even this brief first encounter left little doubt that the new 7 Series marks the start of a new era in the already legendary history of BMW. Of more critical import will be discovering how potential buyers respond to the massive amount of new technology it introduces-and the commensurate learning curve required to master it. Although BMW expects a slight bump in sales volume beyond the current 15,000/year level, this array of advanced hardware is destined to elevate the car's base price by nearly $5000-to an estimated $68,500. Those issues notwithstanding, one thing remains irrefutable: This new 7 Series is eminently worthy of carrying the "Ultimate Driving Machine" appellation. Despite all the other changes, that distinctly critical element carries over intact.
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