BMW V12: Farewell Forever

The V12 is dead - at least at BMW (not yet for Rolls Royce): In Germany, it was already removed from the model range at the end of 2020 because, without a gasoline particulate filter, it no longer met the emission standards. With the phase-out of the current 7 Series, it will be history for the BMW brand worldwide. In the USA, BMW is now releasing a final, limited and numbered special series of twelve models. According to BMW, these last Limited Edition models of the M760i xDrive will be produced in June 2022.

The special model comes with full equipment and special emblems, along with an exclusive selection of wheels and exterior colors as well as upholstery from BMW Individual. Specifically, this means: 20-inch M wheels in double-spoke design in gray or black, naturally a plaque with the consecutive serial number on the center console, and "The Final V12" lettering on the engine cover and door sills. On the trunk lid, a V12 logo replaces the usual and optionally removable M760i badge. Although there are no photos yet, there is a price, and it is substantial: BMW is asking at least 200,000 US dollars (equivalent to around 176,000 euros) for its last V12, with additional special options available at extra cost.

The end of the V12 at the BMW brand does not mean the end of the V12 engine within the group: It will continue to survive for some time at Rolls Royce until it is also replaced there—most likely exclusively by even quieter and at least equally powerful electric machines. Incidentally, the next Seven Series, alias i7, will also receive these.

What does this mean?

The mere fact that the 760, even on BMW's US press sites, is only listed as a pre-facelift model and that only twelve units are being produced shows that the complex engine concept no longer has a great future. In this respect, it is a discreet farewell with dignity—especially since the greatest strength of the V12—smoothness and power—can be even better achieved by electric machines.