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 Lexus LS460 Overview

Since the beginning of the LS series, Lexus has built the quintessential American-style luxury car: comfortable, competent, and uninvolving. The latest iteration, introduced as a 2007 model, represents the perfect example of that goal, with an extensive, immaculately polished blend of technical features and luxury fittings, driven down the road by a 380 horsepower V-8 and 8-speed automatic. The big Lexus has never been a true driver's car, and it's often been described as a car to be driven in, rather than to drive. Underscoring that thinking is Lexus's Intuitive Parking Assist, which automatically parallel parks the car after a somewhat fiddly set-up procedure.

For the first time, the LS comes in both short- (198.0-inch) and long-wheelbase (202.8-inch) versions, and the differences are more than merely length and interior space. Equipment levels vary significantly as well. Navigation, Bluetooth™, heated steering wheel, rear sunshade, back-up camera, climate-controlled front and heated rear seats, air suspension and a host of minor touches are all standard on the MY2009 $73,585 long-wheelbase LS460L, but optional on the MY2009 $63,675 short-wheelbase LS460. Also for the first time, this generation offers a choice between rear- and all-wheel drive.

Other options are typical of the class, and include numerous extensive - and expensive - packages. These include two comfort packages and a navigation package, which add most of the standard equipment from the LS460L. The long-wheelbase model also offers several rear passenger conveniences, such as massaging rear right seat and a single-screen entertainment package as part of the $9,980 Executive Class Seating Package. Active cruise control is one of the few stand-alone options for both models.

 

BMW vs. Lexus

 

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 Lexus' normally aspirated V-8.
• The new 750i is quicker 0-60 mph, at 5.1 seconds, with an effortless, turbine-smooth power delivery.
• The 750i front seats are 20-way adjustable, with standard heat and available Active Ventilation.
• BMW includes far larger disc brakes: 14.7-inch front with 14.5-inch rear, for sure, drama-free stopping.
• Standard suspension on the 750Li includes Dynamic Damping Control, driver-selectable Driving Dynamic Control and load-compensating self-leveling air springs.
• The 750i offers more interior space overall, with more shoulder, head and rear legroom than the LS460.
• BMW's 4-zone Climate Control is standard on the 750i.
• BMW's Night Vision includes Pedestrian Detection as an additional safety measure.
• 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.
• Park Distance Control is standard equipment on the 750i.
• BMW offers a dual-screen Rear Entertainment Package as a factory stand alone option.
• Standard on the 750i, BMW's 2nd-generation iDrive offers a completely revised, highly intuitive interface, 10.2-inch color monitor, Programmable Memory Keys 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.
• The 750i comes standard with run-flat tires.
• BMW's 4 year/50,000-mile Full Maintenance Warranty
• 12 year/unlimited miles corrosion warranty

What Lexus doesn’t…

• Despite its larger displacement and variable valve timing, the LS460's V-8 has a far narrower powerband, with less horsepower (380) and far less torque (367 lb-ft).
• Even with its much vaunted 8-speed transmission, the LS requires 5.8 seconds to reach 60 mph.
• Lexus has only 16-way driver's and 12-way passenger's seats as standard.
• The LS460's disc brakes are much smaller, with 13.1-inch fronts paired with 12.4-inch rear.
• On the LS460, Adaptive Variable Air Suspension, which provides alternative suspension settings and load leveling, is part of a $2200 package.
• The short-wheelbase LS460 models offer less interior space than the 750i.
• Lexus offers no technology to augment the LS's Xenon headlamps, and nothing like Night Vision with Pedestrian Detection.
• Lexus offers a side view camera on its latest full-size SUV, the LX570, but not on the LS460 models.
• Driver assistance features such as Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, or Frontal Collision Warning System are not available at all.
• Lexus offers no equivalent to the 7 Series head-up display.
• A rearview camera is standard on the Lexus, but parking assist is optional.
• Lexus offers a single-screen rear seat entertainment system only on the long-wheelbase LS460L.
• The optional Lexus navigation system still features only a touch screen operation with a 9-inch display, which requires more eyes-off-the-road time, and its access isn't as intuitive as iDrive, with no programmable keys and no direct-access buttons.
• Lexus has nothing like Programmable Memory Keys.
• The optional Lexus navigation includes a hard-drive-based system, but it's only 30 GB, and has none of the other BMW features such as CD ripping, music storage, owner's manual, email access or internet search.
• Lexus doesn't offer run-flat tires.
• 4 year/50,000-mile, but no maintenance included
• 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 7-Series was already strong dynamically, and it's safe to say that it will continue to be among

the best in its class; this is a luxury sedan that doesn't shy away from hustling when called on." - Car and Driver

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