BMW reveals next-gen iDrive technology

BMW has released pictures of its next-generation iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, which will make its debut in the all-new 2018 X5 SUV that's set to be revealed later this year.

Based around the redesigned BMW Operating System 7.0, the latest iDrive system is claimed to have been overhauled to be more intuitive, offer even faster responses and introduce new gesture control technology that's claimed to cut driver distraction.

Like Audi's 'virtual cockpit', the new system now features a full digital instrument panel that can be customised.

Featuring completely redesigned dials that change according to the driving mode you're in, iDrive 7.0 is claimed to respond quicker to touch inputs and can also be controlled using both voice and gestures.

For traditionalists, or those who can't stand greasy fingerprints on large touch-screens, the rotary dial lives on and is placed lower down on the centre console.

Like a smartphone, the new iDrive 7.0 set-up offers 10 menu pages to flick through and each is capable of being customised by the user. Each screen will have between two or four tiles for users to choose from.

Once it makes its debut in the 2018 X5, iDrive 7.0 will migrate to both the next-gen 3 Series and the flagship X7 SUV, both of which are expected to be launched later this year.