The BMW 7 Series Overview

As the class leader in performance and handling, it's easy to imagine the new 7 extending that lead based solely on previous generations. New features such as a multi-link front suspension (the first on a BMW sedan), Dynamic Damping Control, Driving Dynamics Control, and optional Integral Active Steering as part of the Sport Package, coupled with existing features such as Active Roll Stabilization, ensure a chassis that will easily surpass the ride and handling standards set by its predecessor. Now, BMW has expanded the choice of power plants and drive trains available with the twin-turbo 750i and 750Li in both rear-wheel drive and xDrive configurations and the twin-turbo V-12 760Li.

Added to this superlative package is a wealth of comfort and convenience features, several of them new to the class. A new camera package adds a rear view camera and two front side view cameras for maneuvering in tight spaces. The navigation system adds an 8 GB music collection, plus BMW Search and MyInfo, which bring internet search and email connectivity to the ultra-luxury class. Other existing features also add new capabilities: Active Cruise Control now includes Frontal Collision Warning, Night Vision now provides Pedestrian Detection, and the completely redesigned iDrive system now includes Direct Access Buttons as well as an all-new interface and vivid, 10.2-inch high-resolution display.

All in all, the new 7 Series represents an astonishing performance - and that's true even before it ever turns a wheel!

The Jaguar XJ8 Overview

The quintessential English luxury car, Jaguar's XJ8 blends the marque's traditional values with modern sophistication. Introduced as an all-new model in 2004, the current XJ lineup mixes two wheelbases, two engines and various trim levels into six models, ranging from the $67,000 short-wheelbase XJ8 to the flagship, $105,000 Super V8 Portfolio. Of that selection, the XJ Vanden Plas ($76,850 with destination) and supercharged XJR ($84,350 with destination) are the closest competitors to BMW's 750i and 750Li. All XJs feature a lightweight, all-aluminum construction, self-leveling air suspension, 19- or 20-inch wheels, and 6-speed ZF automatic. The XJ's age, however, precludes many of the latest technological refinements found in BMW's 7 Series.

The Vanden Plas (VDP) combines the XJ's 205.3-inch, long-wheelbase chassis with Jaguar's normally aspirated 300-hp 4.2-liter V-8 engine, but packs the result with a long list of standard features. These include inlaid wood trim, leather/wood steering wheel, DVD-base navigation, Bluetooth, parking assist, 16-way front seats, 3-stage heating front and rear, rain-sensing wipers and rear sunshade.

The performance-oriented XJR boasts the short-wheelbase XJ chassis coupled with Jaguar's supercharged, 400-hp V-8. In keeping with its sportier demeanor, the XJR features 14-inch front brakes, 20-inch wheels and performance suspension. Much of the standard equipment carries over from the Vanden Plas, though the XJR also adds active cruise control as standard.

Options are few on both cars. Both models offer several alternative wood trim choices, rear entertainment system and 4-zone climate control.

 

BMW vs. Jaguar

 

What BMW offers…

 

• BMW's twin-turbo V-8 produces 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque and offers a wider powerband (1800-5400 rpm) than Jaguar's supercharged V-8.
• BMW includes far larger disc brakes: 14.7-inch front with 14.5-inch rear, for sure, drama-free stopping.
• The 750i front seats are 20-way adjustable, with standard heat and available Active Ventilation.
• The 7 Series' driver-selectable Driving Dynamic Control offers four settings - Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ - which alter shift programming, throttle response, shock damping and, with the Sport Package, steering assist and ARS response.
• BMW's 4-zone Climate Control is standard on the 750i.
• BMW's Night Vision includes Pedestrian Detection as an additional safety measure to augment its standard Adaptive Xenon headlamps.
• Side View Camera places a pair of wide-angle cameras ahead of the front wheels, which give an accurate view of approaching traffic on busy cross streets.
• Other driver-assistance features offered on the 750i include Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, and Frontal Collision Warning System.
• BMW's Head-up Display places a customized, virtual instrument panel directly in the driver's line of sight.
• Among its many advantages, BMW's optional Integral Active Steering includes rear steering, with excellent high speed maneuverability and a shorter turning circle.
• Standard on the 750i, BMW's 2nd-generation iDrive offers a completely revised, highly intuitive interface, 10.2-inch color monitor and quick-access buttons.
• iDrive also provides eight enhanced Programmable Memory Keys for the ultimate in convenience.
• With BMW's standard hard-drive based navigation, the 7 Series adds an 80 GB hard disc with 8 GB music memory, Real Time Traffic Info, 2nd-generation iDrive, CD-ripping capability, Interactive Owner's Manual, MyInfo and BMW Search.
• xDrive versions of the 7 Series are coming in Fall 2009.
• BMW's 4 year/50,000-mile warranty includes Full Maintenance
• BMW includes a 12 year/unlimited miles corrosion warranty

What Jaguar doesn’t…

• Despite its larger displacement and supercharging, the 400-hp Jaguar V-8 has a far narrower powerband, with far less less torque (367 lb-ft).
• Though the XJR includes larger than standard discs, the fronts are still only 14-inch paired with 12.8-inch rear.
• Jaguar includes standard heating, but XJR front seats are only 16-way, and active ventilation is not available.
• Jaguar's Computer Active Technology Suspension features automatically adjustable air springs and damping, but no driver adjustability for transmission or throttle response, shock damping or steering assist. And Jaguar has nothing like Active Roll Stabilization.
• Jaguar's 4-zone climate control is $1350 on the XJR.
• Jaguar offers nothing to increase the effectiveness of the XJR's non-adaptive Xenon headlamps, and has nothing like Night Vision with Pedestrian Detection.
• Jaguar offers no camera package of any kind on the XJ series sedans.
• Driver assistance features such as Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, or Frontal Collision Warning System are not available at all on the XJ.
• Though it does offer an optional Active Cruise Control system, Jaguar offers none of the additional driver-assistance features.
• Jaguar offers no equivalent to BMW's head-up display.
• Jaguar offers no alternative to the standard steering system on any XJ model.
• Jaguar's navigation system still features only a touch screen operation with a 7-inch display, and its data base is still DVD-based. Its operation isn't as intuitive as iDrive, and has no direct-access buttons.
• Programmable Memory Keys are not part of the navigation system on the XJR.
• Jaguar offers no CD-ripping capability, nor any equivalent to the additional entertainment, navigation or web access features found on the new 7 Series.
• The XJ series has no all-wheel drive option.
• Jaguar's warranty is 4 year/50,000-mile, but includes no maintenance.
• Jaguar has only a 6 year/unlimited miles corrosion warranty

Don't settle for the ordinary, drive something extraordinary. Expect the ultimate in performance and service by purchasing a BMW.

Visit Irvine BMW today, where we provide premiere customer service, high quality BMW vehicles and products, along with factory-trained technicians.

We look forward to seeing you soon, Irvine BMW of Orange County.

"... The great 5 Series cars of the past have offered almost as much luxury as the 7 Series but at a more manageable and sportier size.

This latest iteration may have gained some weight, but it has also gained in refinement.

And, despite the added mass, the sporty dynamics that have made the 5 Series the sports car of its segment remain intact." Car and Driver

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