A TRIO of new models has been announced by BMW giving fans of its bigger cars something to savour.

The latest additions to the German car maker's line up are a revised 7 Series luxury saloon, a convertible in the 8 Series range and a special edition of the high performance M5 to mark the car's 35th anniversary.

Prices start from £69,565 for the new 7 Series, £83,295 for the 8 Series Convertible and details about the limited edition M5 - which is restricted to a run of just 350 models - will be released closer to its arrival in the summer.

The new 7 Series is available to order now with eight models on offer powered by a choice of petrol and diesel engines using six, eight and 12 cylinders.

It is almost an inch longer than before and is an evolution of the current sixth generation model which was introduced in 2015.

Short and long wheelbase variants are included in the range with the latter almost six inches longer creating extra room inside while all-wheel-drive versions are also available.

The new 7 Series has bolder looks than its predecessor with changes including a bigger grille and redesigned air vents and the range tops out from £139,000 for the V12 M760Li limousine.

The 8 Series Convertible is coming on stream as the summer approaches and joins the coupe model which was launched last year.

With similar powertrains - a V8 petrol and a six-cylinder diesel - it is a four seat open top car with a rag top roof that can be opened and closed at up to 31mph in 15 seconds.

Measuring almost 15ft 11ins in length it is the same as the coupe but boot space is reduced to 350 litres although there is a load through facility for more room if required.

Performance in the convertible is not quite as brisk at 5.2 seconds 0 to 60 in the 840d diesel and 3.9 seconds for the £107,100 V8 powered M850i and fuel economy is rated at best at 39.8mpg and 26.6 respectively. Emissions are 161g/km and 225g/km.

A wind deflector is standard fit as are air collars in the front seat head rests while the convertible also features a rollover protection system to protect all occupants. Ventilated front seats and a heat comfort package which includes a heated steering wheel are options.

Other changes for the convertible include two contour lines on the boot, twin trapezoidal exhausts and a taillight bar on the boot lip above the rear light clusters.

Meanwhile come July BMW will be releasing the anniversary edition of the M5 which is based on the Competition model with its 625hp V8 engine.

Special features for the M5 Edition 35 Years are cosmetic only with a dark grey paintjob, 20-inch alloy wheels and brake calipers finished in gloss black or gold when the optional ceramic brakes are fitted.

A gold anodized finish is used on the interior trim and special anniversary badges appear on the sill caps and on the cupholder cover.

Although prices for the special are still to be announced the M5 Competition costs from £96,205 and the anniversary model is set to become a collector's item.