BMW has added a new range-topping model to its latest 7-series lineup in the form of the twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12-powered 760i.

Unveiled at the New York motor show, BMW’s latest upper luxury sedan holds true to tradition by continuing to be sold in both standard- and long-wheelbase versions, with the first North American deliveries set for this summer.

Here are some performance specifications of new model

• 0-100 km/h – 4.60 s

• Top speed - 250 km/h (155 mph)

• CO2 Emissions - 299.0 g/km

• Power-to-weight - 246.33 bhp/ton

Pricing has not yet been announced, but U.S. buyers should bank on a hefty premium over and above the 750i.

Building on the bold new look established on lesser versions of the current generation 7-series, the 760i receives a number of identifying touches, including a bolder chrome surround and unique insert for its signature kidney grille, chrome V12 badges with integrated indicator repeater units down the flanks, standard 19-inch wheels shod with 245/45 (front) and 275/40 (rear) tires and a reworked rear valance with rectangular chromed tailpipes.

The 760i is the first BMW model to receive a new 60-degree twin-turbocharged V12 direct injection gasoline engine–the same unit earmarked for Rolls-Royce’s upcoming production version of the 200EX concept car.

The new powerplant possesses the same 6.0-liter displacement as its naturally aspirated predecessor. But with the help of forced induction and an unusually high 10.0:1 compression ratio, it is claimed to deliver 544 hp at 5,000 rpm, along with a whopping 553 lb-ft of torque in a rev band that stretchs from 1,500 rpm to 5,000rpm.

Channeling drive to the rear wheels is a new eight-speed automatic gearbox developed in cooperation with German transmission specialist ZF. It will trickle down into other BMW models within the next couple of years.

Despite its hefty weight (BMW puts the standard wheelbase 760i at 4,631 pounds and the long wheelbase 760Li at 4,785 pounds), acceleration is stronger than many highly fancied performance cars. BMW puts the 0-to-62-mph time for both versions at just 4.6 seconds, with top speed limited to 155 mph.

BMW 760i dimensions

• Wheelbase - 3070 mm

• Track- front 1611 mm, rear 1650 mm

• Length – 5072 mm

• Width – 1902 mm

• Height – 1473 mm

• Length – wheelbase ratio 1.65

• Kerb weight – 2180 kg

• Fuel capacity – 82 litres

Like all recent BMW models, the 760i receives a raft of fuel saving measures under the company’s EfficientDyanmics banner, including an alternator which decouples under hard acceleration to reduce drag on the engine, as well as regenerative braking that stows electricity created under braking in the battery for latter use. BMW puts combined average fuel consumption for both the standard and long wheelbase at 18.2 mpg.

BMW 760i HQ Wallpapers:

2009 BMW 760i Wallpaper 1600x1200 pixels

2009 BMW 760i Wallpaper 1600x1200 pixels 001

2009 BMW 760i Wallpaper 1600x1200 pixels 002

Tags: 760i, Auto show, BMW, New York, V12