>> >>> >> On Mon, 17 Nov 2008 01:10:16 -0600, snipped-for-privacy@yahoo.co.uk wrote: >>
>> >> I still don't like the stupid gear selector in the middle of the console. No
>> >> particular use except for putting it in D, R or P so why have it sticking up
>> >> like a flag pole?
>> >> --
>>
>> >According to Roundel, the upcoming F01/02 7 Series' gear shifter does
>> >more than select gears. It can also be used as a "manual" shifter,
>> >similar to what was found in the old pony cars of the late 60s/early
>> >70s, i.e., think of those old *B&M* automatic shifters that allows you
>> >to "bang" it into the next gear.
>>
>> >Here's a better review including a great photo of the shifter - notice >> >the M/S +/-
>>
>> >
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>
>> The problem is - for me anyway - is that the "paddle" shift on the E65 was so
>> good and easy and the selector left the console clear. The lever is a switch
>> (of course it is) and is pivoted at the base not as the "old" B&M or even stock
>> shifters on the Pony cars were about 2" below the console level thus giving a
>> feel of gear shifting. This one really feel flimsy and if used "hard" feels as
>> though it will (not would) break off and I can't see a warranty claim being
>> allowed for that and a repair bill in the thousands?
>>
>> As I said before the sat-nav has also been downgraded to pro from High. The
>> dash looks very much like a 3 or 5 and not the limo feel that a 7 should be. >>
>> On a different note - I would have liked to buy the 630d (not available in the
>> US) as I thought it was going to be a "2 door 7 series with all the bells and
>> whistles " but it turned out to be a 2 door 5 series with a 3 series interior...
>> didn't like that bit so I bought a 730d SE but I don't think I'll buy the new
>> one.........!
>>
>Maybe I'm old school, but I like the new direction BMW is going.
>First, the body style is way more conservative than the prior E65/66
>version. But that's probably a good thing as its more "mercedes/lexus-
>ish" and will appeal to that crowd.
I agree. I like the styling - not too radical but defiantly different and the new sharp waist line adds style - lights look good too!
>As for the interior, I like that BMW is now angling the center console
>back towards the driver:
I agree with this too as it brings back the "driver's car" feel like the older E38.
>
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>Its interesting that you say the new shifter is flimsy and can
>possibly break. The 2009 F01/02 7 Series are not yet available here in
>the US, so I haven't had a chance to see/feel one. Then again, I may
>never as I prefer the 3 and 5 Series cars.
It probably is quite robust but looks and feels flimsy and out of place. In the
3 and 5 I can see that it would match the look and feel of a sporty saloon with the gear lever on the console but in a limo???????????Nice car though but I think they have listened to the bean counters too much.