More details on the "all-new" BMW 7 Series

We've already seen what appear to be official press shots of the new 2009 BMW 7 Series, and it looks pretty good to our eyes. As expected, now that the pictures are available for all the world to see, details about the underpinnings are starting to leak out. Not surprisingly, the V8-powered 750i and 750iL models will get the new twin-turbo engine introduced on the controversial X6, offering 400 horses and 450 lb.-ft. of torque. Other possible powertrains, though not available at launch time, will be a revised twin-turbo inline six with 326 horsepower and a diesel engine for the European market. But fret not fuel misers, a hybrid model is also being considered. Underneath, active suspension which eschews BMW's trademark front struts in favor of double-wishbones, will offer variable damping with comfort, normal, sports and sports-plus modes selectable from inside the cabin.

As you'd expect, BMW's active steering will brings its oft-questioned benefits to the large sedan and can now direct the rear wheels as well. BMW's flagship sedan will undoubtedly be equipped with plenty of passenger pampering features, including massaging rear seats, to go along with safety equipment like night vision, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. Of course, the now-familiar iDrive will get its latest set of enhancements in order to make its sometimes confusing interface easier to use. We'll just need to wait for our first stint behind the wheel to see how all this newfangled technology works in the real world, and check back Saturday for more official details.

BMW 7 Series High Security: 760Li

BMW have recently manufacturer two new 7 series cars, these cars have been design with security in mind and are called the BMW 760Li High Security and the 750Li High Security.

Obviously part of being a secure car also means you need to get away quickly, so BMW have provided both cars with huge engines, the BMW 750Li High Security has a 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 engine which provides the car with 407 hp and 433lb-ft of torque.

The BMW 760Li High Security has a 6.0 liter twin turbo V12 Rolls-Royce engine which gives the car 537hp and 533lb-ft of torque. The 760li is capable of 60 mph in 6.1 seconds which is impressive given its size and weight, both cars have an electronically limited top speed of 131mph.

When most cars become armored versions this is usually an addition not intended for the vehicle, however these cars have been designed specifically for this task, they have upgraded the suspension to account for the extra weight bullet-proof plating will add, not only this but the panels of the car are exactly the same size as the bullet-proof versions, which should allow less weak spots.

One other feature I would like to mention is the assault alarm which has many purposes, it is capable of putting out fires under the car and also in the engine bay, not only this but if a gas attack is sensed by the car, the alarm automatically shuts the vents, raises the windows and locks the doors, following this the car then pumps in purified air.