"Stylish design and unprecedented engineering give the new BMW 7 Series its unique character, combining inspiring luxury with thrilling driving dynamics and supreme visual presence," said BMW Group Australia Managing Director, Guenther Seemann.

"A new era in the luxury performance segment is about to unfold in Australia setting new benchmarks in driver assistance systems and driving dynamics.

"With changes in the way we perceive individual mobility and the impact that this has on the environment, the new BMW 7 Series will again set the benchmark for luxury motoring, from the BMW EfficientDynamics V8 engine to the class leading in-line six-cylinder turbo charged diesel model," he said.

"The new BMW 7 Series will increase the number of vehicles we sell in this class in 2009 and give us the opportunity to challenge for sales leadership as well.

"Thanks to BMW EfficientDynamics, we are able to offer Australians a car with exemplary fuel consumption and low emissions, so customers may reduce their environmental impact without compromising on superior levels of comfort, luxury or technology, traditionally inherent in all BMW 7 Series.

"The BMW 7 Series range includes a diesel engine for the first time in Australia. This move underlines the success BMW has enjoyed locally with our advanced, high performance diesel engines over the past six years, and the success of the diesel-powered 7 Series particularly in Europe.

The all new BMW 7 Series range will arrive in Australian dealerships in April 2009, powered by the highly acclaimed and internationally lauded 240 kW 3.0-litre twin turbo straight six and new twin turbo 300 kW V8 BMW EfficientDynamics engines.

Just eight weeks later, the much lauded 180 kW 3.0-litre straight six turbo-diesel powered 730d will arrive, completing the line-up for 2009.

These engines set a new benchmark for low fuel consumption, low emissions (all are already Euro 5 compliant), as well as delivering muscular and stimulating performance. All feature BMW Brake Energy Regeneration for reduced consumption and improved acceleration performance.

This fifth generation BMW 7 Series will be available in extended-wheelbase guise in both petrol models from launch, the 740Li and 750Li rear passengers enjoying the luxury of a 140 mm longer wheelbase, giving 208 mm of rear legroom. These models also benefit from a revised roofline delivering an additional 10 mm in rear headroom (988 mm) and also a unique sweep to the C-pillar.

The BMW 730d is available as a standard wheelbase model only.

Pricing
BMW 730d $198,800*
BMW 740i $203,000
BMW 740Li $218,000
BMW 750i $274,200
BMW 750Li $291,200