Automakers around the world use their large luxury sedans as testbeds for bleeding-edge tech — a lot of it is ridiculous, but a lot of it becomes practical (think heated seats) or even required by law (think anti-lock brakes or stability control). Over time, the theory goes, some of those technologies filter down to the more plebeian models in the range.

But perhaps nowhere is that effect more important than with Mercedes-Benz's S-Class and BMW's 7 Series, where each new generation brings an entire catalog of sci-fi-esque gadgets and creature comforts. The new 7, announced today, is certainly no exception.

Let's start with the basics: in the US, the 7 will be available in two configurations at launch. The base model is the 740i with a 3-liter, 320-horsepower TwinPower inline six starting at $81,300; above that is the 750i xDrive with a redesigned 4.4-liter, 445-horsepower twin turbo V-8 starting at $97,400. The 740e xDrive plug-in hybrid joins the range in 2016, with pricing to be announced. Both the 740i and 750i xDrive will be sold only in long-wheelbase configurations in the US. That means that, at least for the moment, we'll be losing quite a few US configurations: the current 7 is available in a short-wheelbase version, a diesel, a hybrid, and a V-12.

But this car isn't really about engines, it's about... well, basically everything else. It starts with the key — the optional Display Key, to be specific, which looks like a larger version of BMW's standard wireless fob with a full color touchscreen embedded in it. From there, you can control car functions from afar — pre-heating on a cold day, for instance. The fob can charge while it's inside the car, but if it dies, don't worry: there's a second battery that'll make sure it just acts like a regular wireless key until you have a chance to recharge. (The Display Key debuted on the i8 as an option, but it's not available on any of BMW's other vehicles yet.)

So, yes, to recap: your key, should you tick the Display Key option when you order your 7, is effectively a smartphone minus the phone. But there's more, of course.


http://www.theverge.com/2015/6/10/8756525/2016-bmw-7-series-announced

In person, you really get the sense that BMW designed this car around the passenger

this Germans are da.mn craaaazy

this car is good but not on par with the S-class the digital dash guage and luxury I saw in the recent S500 almost caused me to have an accident I wonder what the S600 or S65 will be packing

u don't mess with the German... a dream car mhen..

Designed with Abuja road in mind.

I go see am for abj roads by next week

Loving this road monster already

Will be in my garage soonest.