Car Review: BMW 7 Series
The BMW 7 Series is a standout in the full-size luxury sedan segment, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. Redesigned for 2016, it continues to impress with its refined engineering and luxurious features. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what makes the 7 Series a top contender in its class:
Overview
First Introduced: 1977
Position in BMW Lineup: Flagship luxury sedan, the largest and most expensive model in BMW's portfolio.
Competitors: Audi A8, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Jaguar XJ.
Body Styles: Sedan, extended-wheelbase sedan, and convertible.
Trim Levels and Powertrains
The 7 Series is available in four main trims, each offering a unique combination of power and luxury:
740i: Rear-wheel drive, powered by a 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-6 engine (320 hp).
740i xDrive: All-wheel-drive version of the 740i.
750i xDrive: Equipped with a 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8 engine (445 hp).
M760i xDrive: The top-tier model, featuring a 6.6-liter TwinPower Turbo V12 engine (601 hp).
All trims come with an 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive gear shifts.
Performance
Engines: Six engine options, including turbocharged inline-6, V8, and V12 configurations.
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (standard) or all-wheel drive (xDrive).
Fuel Economy:
740i: 29 mpg combined (25 city/34 highway).
750i xDrive: 26 mpg combined (22 city/31 highway).
Handling: Adaptive suspension and precise steering provide a balance of comfort and sportiness.
Interior and Comfort
Seating: Comfortably seats up to five passengers, with spacious legroom and headroom.
Materials: High-quality leather, wood, and metal finishes.
Features:
Standard: power-adjustable front seats, four-zone automatic climate control, panoramic sunroof, and wireless phone charging.
Optional: massaging front seats, heated and cooled seats, and a Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Technology:
iDrive infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen.
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Wi-Fi hotspot.
Head-up display and night vision camera (optional).
Exterior and Design
Lighting: Standard LED headlights with adaptive features.
Wheelbase Options: Standard and extended-wheelbase versions for added rear-seat legroom.
Convertible Option: A luxurious soft-top convertible for those seeking exclusivity.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 7 Series is equipped with advanced safety technologies, including
Lane departure warning.
Blind-spot monitoring.
Adaptive cruise control.
Automatic emergency braking.
Surround-view camera system.
Pricing
Base Model (740i): Starts at $84,900.
Extended-Wheelbase Model: Starts at $89,900.
Convertible Model: Starts at $97,400.
M760i xDrive: Starts at $156,700.
Pros
Spacious, luxurious interior with premium materials.
Smooth and powerful performance across all trims.
Cutting-edge technology and infotainment features.
Excellent build quality and attention to detail.
Cons
High starting price, especially for higher trims.
Some competitors offer more rear-seat luxury features.
The convertible model is significantly more expensive.
Verdict
The BMW 7 Series is a top-tier luxury sedan that excels in performance, comfort, and technology. Whether you’re looking for a spacious family car, a long-distance cruiser, or a statement-making convertible, the 7 Series delivers. While it comes at a premium price, its blend of luxury and engineering makes it a worthy investment for those seeking the best in the segment.
If you’re in the market for a full-size luxury sedan, the BMW 7 Series should undoubtedly be on your shortlist.