Next-generation BMW 7-Series spy photos
December 6, 2007 by Alborz Fallah
BMW’s 7-Series is expected to undergo a massive style change when the new model arrives late next year. The current shape, best known for its Bangle-butt, has had its share of criticism as far as styling goes.
Reports from Germany suggest the new 7 Series will have a completely new front end, similar to the 6-Series, best of all though, the bangle-butt will be no more.
From what we can gather from these exclusive spy photos, the position of the headlights and turn signals indicate low mounted wrap-around headlights and a wide grille, as well as a sleeker body and a more elegant overall appearance.
To match Lexus, BMW is rumoured to be introducing an eight-speed transmission, as well the next-generation iDrive system.
The new 7-series is expected to hit European showrooms late 2008 as a 2009 model. Australian buyers should see deliveries in mid-late 2009.
Photos copyright to Scoopy and used with permission for CarAdvice.com.au only.
Print it: 
I like the 116i someone cheekily wrote on the boot :P
Hehe, shows the Germans have a sense of humour eh
Seriously though, here’s hoping the styling is more in the vein of the E38 (1994-2001). They still look fantastic on the road, especially in black with M double-spoke alloys,Mmmm… The E65, though it has presence, looks bloated (and particularly the pre-update 2001 model, vulgar) in comparison.
It looks like the Bngle butt is still there, just a little less outrageous. Why get rid of a design feature that so many other cars now have. It is all the rage. Even the Camry has a minor case of Bangle butt.
Yeah… but isn’t it a bit arguable as to whether certain design cues will still be regarded as ‘pleasing to the eye’ in a decade’s time? Or whether all of those cues come together collectively to created a well balanced design, instead of a motley assortment of conflicting patterns and shapes (not saying that BMWs designs are necessarily like this)?
Maybe it’s not important for a mainstream car to date well; it can just be designed as the ‘it’ car for the moment. Just don’t fancy its chances on the used car market.
Another thinly veiled copy of the NSU Ro80….
That was a car for the future.
When will BM do something original?
And another thing. Back in the NSU day they knew that it is important to have a smooth body. This thing looks like it has been riveted together by John Howard on a factory visit before the election.
BMW better do aliitle more work on smoothing the lines on the 7 series or this may just flop! This is a future car with a checkered past. Too much imbreeding!
Hopefuly its not a brick like the current one
Why couldn’t it have looked more like the CS Concept……now thats a good looking car!
Why did many people criticized about the Bangle Butt on most BMW today? I think that’s ok…
whats the go with the front head lights they look like they just came out of a ba xr8 falcon.