Though the rumor mills have been working overtime and the company has repeatedly denied such a development, it now seems very likely that the BMW is in the process of developing an M Performance derivative of the new 7-Series sedan. According to C/D, the meager selection of engines offered on the new 7er, currently consisting of the 320 hp 740i and the 445 hp 750i, will soon be joined by some very interesting new models: Beyond the Europe-only diesels, a 760i, B7 Alpina and even an M Performance version are on the way.

According to C/D, the 760i will pack BMW's twin-turbo V12, while the Alpina B7 will offer a luxurious take on the twin-turbo V8, tweaked to produce around 600 hp. But for gearheads and those intent on driving the ultimate of ultimate driving machines, the flavor of the day will undoubtedly be the M Performance model, featuring what is likely to be some form of "mild hybridization." Such a model would be poised to face off against competition from the Mercedes S63 AMG and Audi S8, though it may not be as drastic as the full-fledged M7 we've been praying for. Until these additions are officially announced, enthusiasts will have to make do with the new 7-Series' optional M Sport package.