According to rumors that have been flying across the web, BMW plans to offer a M performance version of their luxury 7-Series sedan, but according to Automobilemag, this won't happen until the next generation 7-Series arrives in 2015. That being said, rumors are also stating that the new model will not wear the M7 nomenclature. Instead, BMW will adopt a more conventional M770i xDrive name and will mainly aim it at US customers.
The upcoming M770i xDrive will be powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 that will deliver a total of 475 HP and 480 lb-ft of torque. This strikes us as an odd decision considering the 760Li is powered by a 570 HP V12 engine. However, BMW has promised that the next M770i will be more agile than the 760i.
The future sedan will also feature extensive use of carbon fiber, including the roof, trunk, and hood, but the suspension components, firewalls, and doors will all be made from aluminum. These elements combined with lightweight sports seats and carbon fiber ceramic brakes will make the M770i about 450 lbs lighter than the current top version 7-Series.
Expect to see the new BMW M770i xDrive's launch a few months after the next 7-Series arrives on the market.