BMW has revealed the M760Li xDrive, a powerful flagship 7 Series that will take on the snappier-named Mercedes-AMG S63.
With 592bhp and 800Nm of torque from its 6.6-litre twin-turbo V12 engine, the M760Li manages the 0-62mph sprint in an astonishing 3.9 seconds and will go on to a limited top speed of 155mph.
That's thanks in part to the xDrive four-wheel drive system, but the car gets a rear-wheel bias for better handling, as well as specifically tuned suspension. The brand's Dynamic Drive system reduces body roll as well, and BMW says that despite the 7 Series' bulk this M760Li version delivers a sporty driving experience. The new quad-exit exhaust system should help in the sound-effects department as well.
The car also gets 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels, and other visual changes include a new front bumper design with larger air intakes, extended sills below the doors and a new apron design at the back to accommodate some larger exhaust pipes. There's an optional spoiler on the back if you want one, too.
Inside you'll find aluminium sill plates with a V12 logo, a leather M-branded steering wheel with gearshift paddles, new pedals and bigger dials to accommodate higher speeds (up to 205mph, despite the 155mph electronic limit).
Other equipment includes LED headlights, keyless entry, electric seats front and rear, gesture controls and leather trim throughout the cabin. Plus, there's sun blinds in the back, alcantara headlining and the latest BMW infotainment system.
You can also buy your M760Li in Excellence trim, which removes most of the sporty styling additions and uses more subtle-looking wheels and bumpers. The exhaust is toned down too, to make sure it's less intrusive if you put your foot down. You also get deep-pile carpet and extra wood trim inside to boost the comfort factor.
The V12 engine returns 22.4mpg and emits 294g/km of CO2, so it's not exactly going to be cheap to run, but it's sure to be pretty expensive to buy as well. There's no official pricing details yet, but when it launches at the end of 2016 we expect it to cost somewhere close to the Mercedes-AMG S63's £120,000 price tag.
We expect to see the car for the first time in the metal at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show next month.
What do you think of this new V12 7 Series? Let us know below...