Mercedes->ke187 has shown there’s a healthy demand for fast executive sedans->ke505 with its 2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG and 2015 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG models, and now BMW->ke178 could be looking to follow suit with a go-fast version of the new 2016 BMW 7 Series. Rumors have been swirling for months now about a possible M7, but BMW could also be mulling the possibility of an M Performance derivative of the 7 Series.->ke323

Such a car would be positioned as sportier alternative to the 750i, but below the yet-to-be-confirmed M7.->ke4402 The 750i is available with the M Sport package, but it’s mostly a cosmetic upgrade. Car and Driver reports the M Performance 7 Series, likely to be called M750i, could get “mild hybridization” for both more power and improved efficiency.

If that’s the case then expect the 750i’s 4.4-liter, twin-turbo V8 to be carried over and augmented with a lithium-ion-powered electric motor producing around 100 horsepower. An eight-speed transmission will send power to the rear wheels, but an all-wheel-drive xDrive version could be available too. Total system output should be around 550 horsepower and 570 pound-feet of torque, which will help the M750i get from 0-60 in around four seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

An Adaptive M version of the 7 Series’ air suspension system with electronically controlled dampers will come standard, and suspension components, including arms and subframes, will be aluminum. BMW’s Variable Sport Steering and larger ventilated disc brakes will also come standard. Outside, the M750i will differentiate itself with a sportier body kit sculpted in carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic.

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Why it matters

BMW isn’t nearly as stingy with the M badge as it used to be. It wasn’t all that long ago that we only had the M3->ke2366 and M5.->ke2922 Now we also have the 2016 BMW M6, 2014 BMW M6 Gran Coupe, 2015 BMW X5 M, 2015 BMW X6 M and the upcoming 2016 BMW M2. And when you start giving SUVs->ke145 the M treatment, then an M7 doesn’t seem so far-fetched.

But, with the cost of full-fat M cars getting ever more expensive, the company has recognized the need for more-affordable performance alternatives. That’s where the M Performance cars come in. If it goes ahead, the M750i will join the 2015 BMW M135i, 2014 BMW M235i, 2012 BMW M550d xDrive 2013 BMW X5 M50d and 2015 BMW X6 M50d as BMW’s sixth M Performance car.

2016 BMW 7 Series

Read our full review here.