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The BMW design language over the last half-decade has been controversial to say the least. Not least among their design sins is what I call the “ugly bump” on the current 7 series…that place where the trunk lid rolls off to the sides to hit an abrupt new angle jutting out to the car’s outside, which then rolls downward.

Yuck.

So I was happy to see the 5th generation 7 series from BMW ditched this in favor of a less hideous skin. In fact, the new car is quite the looker. For the most part.

Slated to go on sale next spring, the 7 series will offer U.S. buyers two models: The standard 750i and the longer-wheelbase 750Li (which is about 5.5″ longer).

Some key features include:

  • The new 4.4 liter, twin-turbo V8 that made its debut in the X6
  • Version 2 of iDrive (finally!) with a 10.2″, hi-res screen
  • A six-speed automatic transmission
  • A new suspension system featuring BMW’s Dynamic Damping Control and self-leveling air suspension (on the 750Li)
  • Loads of fun gadgets including Active Cruise Control with new stop-and-go capability; Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, Head-up Display, High Beam Assistant, BMW Night Vision with new Pedestrian Detection, Side View and Back-up Cameras.

Yes, Pedestrian Detection. Now they need to start working on it to include the Smokin’ Hot Pedestrian Detection and combine that with the Stop-And-Go Cruise Control. I’m just saying.

Anyway…other features include an iPod / USB connection, massaging seats, robotic pipe cleaner and retractible canard wings.*

Looks-wise, the 5th generation 7 series definitely bests the current model. From the pictures BMW released, the skin looks much more harmonious and has better self-continuity than the outgoing car. The nose seems appropriately aggressive without being too chunky, and the overall stance implies a refined sportiness. Nice.

We were going to post the press release here, but it’s about 4 zillion pages long, so how’s about we just post a link? Check it out from here. No price is set as of yet, but we’re guessing it’ll end up somewhere between a Kia Sportage and a Bugatti Veyron.

* Robotic pipe cleaner and retractible canard wings not included