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Friday 24 August 2012

BMW 7-Series Performance

Reviewers say that the 2012 BMW 7-Series is agile for a super luxury car, and its numerous engine options also make it stand out from the competition. BMW offers the 7-Series as 740i and 740Li models, which feature a twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine. While these cars compete in a class that’s filled with V8s, reviewers say that the new six-cylinder mill provides competitive acceleration. If you’re looking for more power, a turbocharged V8 comes in the 750i and Li, while the 760Li offers even more thrust thanks to a turbocharged V12 engine.

BMW also allows 7-Series owners to tailor their driving experience with the Driving Dynamics Control system, which allows users to adjust their suspension and steering with Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport + settings. Most reviewers like the system’s versatility, although a few comment that the 7-Series is still a driver’s car, meaning that it lacks the smooth ride quality of competitors like the Lexus LS and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

"All 7-Series models fall short of the lofty ride-balance standard we've come to expect from BMW. We're disappointed that the softer-riding 18-inch wheels are no longer offered on the 750i and 750Li." -- Consumer Guide
"Although it's tempting to dismiss it as a pokey model intended as dealership traffic bait, the 740i with its 315-horsepower twin-turbo inline-6 is as quick from zero to 60 mph (5.8 seconds) as the V8-powered Lexus LS 460 and nearly matches the power of the V8 7 Series from 10 years ago." -- Edmunds
"During a test-drive of a 740Li in rural New Jersey, we were particularly impressed by the fact that the six-cylinder car, which is about 220 pounds lighter, exhibits less turbo lag off the line and therefore smoother, more linear acceleration - V-8 variants, which have an 85-hp advantage, hesitate off the line before exploding forward." -- Automobile Magazine
"The return to six-cylinder power is a good move for BMW, which will be able to offer higher efficiency and reasonable power for customers who do not know, or care, how many cylinders their car has." -- Jalopnik

Acceleration and Power

Three engines are available in the BMW 7-Series for 2012. In 740i and 740Li models, a 3.0-liter, twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine puts 315 horsepower to the rear wheels. Power is routed through a six-speed automatic transmission that features a manual shift mode. While the 740i is a six-cylinder car in a class packed full of V8s, reviewers still appreciate its performance, noting that it’s just as quick in a zero-to-60 sprint as the V8-powered Lexus LS.

If you’re seeking even better acceleration, the 7-Series is available with more powerful engines as well. The 750i and 750Li feature a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 400 horsepower. Power is also routed to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission, but the 750i and Li are also available with xDrive, BMW’s all-wheel drive system. Reviewers also approve of this engine, but one test driver says that the 750Li xDrive feels less enjoyable to drive than the lighter 750i.

As if these powertrains aren’t enough, BMW also offers the 760Li: a rear-wheel drive 7-Series with a 535-horsepower, twin-turbo V12 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission with manual mode.

The EPA estimates that 740i and 740Li sedans get 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, while 750i and 750Li models get 15/22 and 14/22 mpg city/highway, respectively. BMW 750i xDrive and 750Li xDrive sedans both get 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. Fuel economy estimates have not yet been published for the 760Li, but the identical 2011 model averages 13/19 mpg city/highway.

"Fine in normal driving, but full-throttle takeoffs start with a somewhat timid launch followed by a strong surge as the turbos get cooking. This somewhat non-linear throttle response makes for unwanted lurching in around-town driving." -- Consumer Guide
"Despite its significant curb weight, the 2012 BMW 7 Series is deceptively quick. Even though it has just six cylinders, the 740i offers a prodigious swell of midrange torque. Of course, the 750 and 760 models are that much more impressive." -- Edmunds
"Like the V-8 version, the 740Li uses a six-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth upshifts and very responsive downshifts as well as a Sport mode." -- Automobile Magazine
"While the 400-horsepower, turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 engine is relatively sprightly in the 750i, I thought it was a bit of a laggard while towing all the additional weight that comes with the 750Li's longer wheelbase and xDrive all-wheel-drive system hardware." -- Cars.com

Handling and Braking

Most reviews say that the BMW 7-Series is light on its feet, despite its size and comfortable accommodations. The 7-Series has near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution: a trait found on many quality sports cars, but not always on large sedans, which helps the 7-Series’ remain composed when the road gets twisty. Additionally, BMW’s Driving Dynamics Control allows the driver to alter the car’s handling characteristics though a variety of suspension settings. However, a few test drivers comment that even when the 7-Series is in Comfort mode, it’s stiffer than rivals like theLexus LS. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. It just means that the 7-Series is more of a driver’s car. If you’re looking for a luxury sedan with an ultra-posh ride, the LS and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class both put a greater emphasis on comfort.

"While never outright harsh or uncomfortable, these BMWs are not as composed as they should be." -- Consumer Guide
"The 7 Series is also one of the most engaging cars in the class to drive. Equipped with optional active steering, the 7 Series impresses with its ability to sweep around tight corners. Even in standard rear-wheel-drive form, it twists sharper and surer than many midsize luxury sedans." -- Edmunds
+"On the twisting country roads outside of Dresden, it was easy to forget that we were in fact driving a very large sedan. With the Sport package, steering is nearly too sharp at slower speeds (largely because of the variable ratios and the four-wheel steer effect), but the sensation begins to feel more conventional as the miles pass. Though it certainly doesn't have the steering feedback perfection of a 3 Series, the 7's handling traits are remarkably deft considering its bulk." -- Popular Mechanics

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2012 BMW 7-Series

BMW 7-Series Review

The 2012 BMW 7-Series ranks 6 out of 12 Super Luxury Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 21 published reviews and test drives of the BMW 7-Series, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Reviewers love the 2012 BMW 7-Series for its nimble handling and comfortable interior, but say the 7-Series’ cabin isn’t quite as luxurious as other super luxury cars.

For 2012, the BMW 7-Series continues to balance comfort with an engaging driving experience. Three engine choices are available in the 7-Series, including a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine in 740i and 740Li models. While standard V8 powerplants are common among super luxury cars, test drivers say there’s no need to avoid six-cylinder 7-Series if you’re concerned about power. Edmunds says it's just as quick from zero to 60 mph as a Lexus LS.

Still, if you’re shopping for a sedan with ample power, BMW offers turbocharged V8 and V12 engines that make the 7-Series accelerate just as well as it handles. Most reviewers also approve of BMW’s Driving Dynamics Control, which allows ride control and steering adjustments that range from “Comfort” to “Sport +”. Still, shoppers looking for a car with a posh, serene ride should be aware that the 7-Series is more of a driver’s car than some of its rivals.

While most agree that the 2012 BMW 7-Series’ exciting driving dynamics make it fun to drive, one reviewer says that the current 7-Series no longer strikes the balance between comfort and sport that he has come to expect. If you’re looking for a super luxury car that coddles you with an ultra-smooth ride, competitors like the Lexus LS and Mercedes-Benz S-Class might be more appealing. Additionally, savvy shoppers may notice that little has changed for the 2012 model year. If you like the 7-Series, but want a lower price, don’t overlook a certified pre-owned or used BMW 7-Series.

The 7-Series’ interior is loved by auto writers love for its quality materials and a decent suite of standard tech features. The cabin, albeit luxurious, is still not as opulent as some of rivals. Features like heated and cooled seats and satellite radio are often standard equipment at this price point, but you’ll need to add option packages to get them on the 740i. Still, the 7-Series impresses critics with its iDrive system, which is much more user-friendly than earlier versions. The BMW 7-Series is also roomy. Ample passenger space is available front and rear, and choosing an extended-wheelbase Li model increases the 7-series’ back seat comfort, which is good even on standard wheelbase models.

Other Cars to Consider

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class can’t compete with the 7-Series in terms of price. At $93,000, the base S550 costs $22,000 more than the base 740i, but Mercedes’ flagship is not without its pluses. Among these are more standard interior tech features, a more luxuriously appointed cabin and a posh, balanced ride. Additionally, the base 7-Series can’t compete with the S550 in terms of power. You’d have to opt for the $82,500 BMW 750i to match the S-Class’ muscle. However, you’ll still save money if you choose the 750i, and reviewers say that if you’re looking for a driver’s car the 7-Series is a better pick.

If you’re willing to give up a little seating capacity, and you’re drawn to the 7-Series’ spirited driving experience, thePorsche Panamera is worth a test drive. The Panamera out-handles the 7-Series, and its opulent cabin wows reviewers who sometimes think that the 7-Series falls short. Starting at roughly $75,000, the base Panamera also offers similar power to the 740i. However, if you like your car fully-loaded, be aware that the Porsche’s options are expensive. The Panamera’s price tag can skyrocket quickly.

BMW 7-Series: The Details

Three engines and two wheelbase lengths are available on the 2012 BMW 7-Series. Regular 7-Series models have a 120.9-inch wheelbase, while Li models are 5.5 inches longer. BMW 740i and 750i models are available in either style, while the 760 is a Li-only model. Choosing a stretched 740Li or 750Li generally costs between $3,900 and $4,500 more, depending on the drivetrain you choose.

At $71,000, the 740i comes equipped with a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, push-button start, leather upholstery, four-zone climate control, navigation, Bluetooth and a 10-speaker stereo with 12 gigabytes of music storage, iPod adapter and HD radio. The 750i starts at $84,300, and comes with all of the features listed above, as well as interior items such as upgraded leather on 20-way adjustable heated front seats, a power trunk lid and soft-closing automatic doors. A more powerful 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 is also under the 750i’s hood. All-wheel drive is available on 750i and Li models for an additional $3,000.

The top-rung 760Li starts at roughly $137,000 and competes in an elite class of super luxury cars like the Mercedes S600. The 760Li comes with a powerful, twin-turbo V12 engine, top- and side-view parking cameras, heated and ventilated seats at all four corners and power rear sunshades.

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Monday 20 August 2012

Honda Civic 2012: Tech

The ninth-generation Civic has all the makings of a modern motor: a hybrid engine, a solid crust, a comfy interior and enough tech to keep the gadget freaks happy.

It may be the brainchild of our Japanese cousins, but the Civic has long played a valuable role in Britain – in the past 18 years, over 1m of these babies were built on our soil, specifically, in Honda’s Swindon factory.

Worldwide, an incredible 40m Civics have been sold since the first model landed back in 1972, making it the Japanese car-maker’s most successful four-wheeler ever.

While the new Civic has shied away from its minimalist roots, Honda has kept the brand’s most expedient features such as the spacious boot and ridiculously stylish exterior - ultimately, among some of the key selling points of any vehicle. But what else is on board?

We took the Civic 2.2 i-DTEC ES Manual for a spin to find out.

Honda Civic 2012: Tech

The technology on board the Civic is akin to what you’ll find in the Range Rover Evoque.

You have keyless technology giving you the ability to stop and start the carwithout taking the keys out of your pocket, and rear-mounted cameras, which display the view behind you onto the on-board monitor, so now you have no excuse for putting a dent in the rear.

Underneath the arm rest you’ll find a USB and AUX connector, which you can use to hook up your MP3 player to the entertainment system.

Connectivity options are boosted by the inclusion of Bluetooth, which you can use to hook up your smartphone to make and answer calls safely, as well as to pump out your playlist.

If you're a bass freak with a love of high-volume track-bashing, you'll be glad to know the Civic's speaker system is clear, sharp and never fails to miss a beat.

Any external device, from your iPod to your iPhone, can be controlled via the switches on either the dashboard or the buttons on the steering wheel.

Our review model didn’t have the integrated sat nav system, which is available for an additional fee or comes standard in both the EX and EX GT trims.

Honda Civic 2012: Specs

- Bluetooth connectivity
- USB and AUX connection
- Rear-mounted cameras
- CD player
- Magic seats

Honda Civic 2012: Performance

The 2.2 diesel engine is smooth and barely makes a noise, while steering is both sharp and responsive, and breaking is on-point. All these features combine to create an effortless and smooth driving experience.

Keeping track of your carbon footprint (or in this case, wheel print) is made easy by a nifty feature called ECO Assist, which uses light signals to inform you how your driving skills are affecting fuel economy.

Also on board is an ‘Econ’ switch, which activates the car’s eco settings, so fuel-scoffing features, such as air con, are automatically adjusted to consume as little of the good stuff as possible.

This will, in theory, help you save money in the long run as the cost of fuel continues to rise.

Honda Civic 2012: Verdict

Green but mean, the 2012 Civic makes other hybrid road warriors look whimpy. While the price is a tad high, fuel-saving technology ensures you won’t be out of pocket in the long run.

Space is in plentiful supply, which is ideal for families, but the cool interior kit and sleek design means the fellas will love it too.

Overall, we were pretty impressed by this motor, which has all the makings of a great car: a solid design, smooth engine and a high-tech dashboard. It’s Honda’s best Civic yet.

Honda Civic 2012 availability: Out now

Honda Civic 2012 price: From £16,955httpf2dcdilvg40y7r7bpctfm42xdi.hop.clickbank.nettid=HQTY8D56