ONE of last year's more invigorating new car launches was that held by BMW in France for its latest 7 Series range-topper, writes William Scholes.
Although not exactly lacking in refinement, pace or power with its range of 3.0-litre diesel engines, BMW has now seen fit to drop a rather potent V12 petrol unit under the 7's long, long bonnet.
It's also given the new model a long and almost algebraic name: M760Li xDrive V12.
Although not a full-fat M car - the M760 falls into what BMW calls its 'M Performance' category - the new model is a serious driver's car.
Power from the twin-turbocharged engine is 592bhp and torque a mighty 590lb/ft. Top speed is limited to 155mph, as is the German way with such things, but 0-62mph is a distinctly unlimousine-like 3.9 seconds.
To underline the car's sporting credentials, the four-wheel-drive system favours the rear wheels and the suspension has been given a more driver-focused tune.
Gadgets include LED headlamps and the brilliant gesture control, which allows some functions to be operated by the wave of a hand.
