7-series and beyond

I downloaded the MOV files of the new 7-series' exterior and interior from bmw.com/bmwe/index.htm and I have to say that I really love the interior. I tried out the iDrive system at the Detroit Auto Show. It's great. I don't like the exterior much, though. I think that on the whole it is nice but it is missing trim on the sides (and it's too flat) and more pronounced creases that would give the car a personality and some muscle.

I saw the new 5-series in a British magazine. The rear and the sides look the same, but the front looks like a Ford Contour. What gives? It looks like the 5 is loosing it's BMW look.

By the way, with the iDrive system, will it be possible to run manual transmission with a stick shift and clutch? I haven't heard anything about it, but I don't think it's possible.

Also, I've seen some pictures of the next 6-series. Some pictures show a vehicle close to the Z9 in styling. Others show a different car, but beautiful. None look like the 5 that I saw in the British Magazine. Has anyone heard what the price is going to be?

Thanks

I can say that the price is going to be too much! Let someone else buy it new.. :smoker2: