2008 Paris Motor Show-Day One
The 2008 Paris Motor Show holds court every second fall season on the automotive show circuit. This year, it also happened to be Fashion Week and the bevy of beautiful people and automobiles at Port de Versailles (Paris Expo) were truly something special to see. Here are several of the highlights from Day One of the show.
BMW 7 Series
Could the timing for a new BMW 7 Series be any better? With fuel prices high and stock markets fluctuating wildly, BMW has the unique opportunity to introduce a stronger, faster and more fuel efficient luxury sedan for those who can still afford to buy the best.
Making their Paris debuts were several models in the new 7 Series. Featured most prominently, at least on the show floor, was the BMW Concept 7 Active Hybrid along with the 750 Li and 730d (six- cylinder diesel). In North America, we expect to see the powerful 750 Li and 750i as the first models to reach our shore. Distinguishing the two, the 750Li rides on a 5.5 inch longer wheelbase than its shorter sibling. That said, both offer excellent room and an extremely quiet ride for all on board.
Power for the new 7 Series 750 sedans comes in the form of a twin turbocharged 4.4L V8 engine. It produces 407 hp mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. If you think the current model was quiet, wait until you sit inside the new 7 Series and close the doors! Road and outside noise is almost non- existent, even in the crowded confines of the Paris Motor Show. Once inside, all outside clamor seems to fade away and life slows down, at least until you reach the apex of the next corner.
