2008 BMW 7-Series (750i, 750Li, 760Li)

In the world of luxury sedans, the BMW 7-Series, available with large and really-large engines and long and extra-long wheelbase offers perhaps the best combination of driving pleasure, ride comfort, and interior luxury. It is also perhaps the most technologically advanced of any high-end automobile, a source of satisfaction for the computer-savvy, but an annoyance for those who would prefer simply to have their needs met without fuss.

Most buyers will opt for the 4.8 liter V8 producing a more-than-adequate 360 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque available in the 750i and long-wheelbase 750li. The engine is capable of moving this 4600-pound sedan to sixty mph in less than six seconds. BMW's smooth-shifting and responsive six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission is the only transmission available on the 7-Series.

The long-wheelbase 760li, apparently designed largely for German executives being chauffeured along the autobahn, is equipped with a 438 horsepower V12. This executive version of the 7-Series comes standard with the complete list of options available on the 750 models.

The 7-Series was last restyled five years ago, but in response to reviewer criticism the design has been subtly tweaked around the headlamps and rear deck. It still isn't to everyone's taste, but is unquestionably handsome. The li models are six inches longer between the wheels, all of which is devoted to extending legroom for rear passengers. Low-profile tires and available 19, 20, and 21 inch wheels say this is a car for the performance-oriented owner.

BMW is justly renowned for high-performance handling, and gives up none of this reputation in the 7-Series, largely due to the standard Active Roll Stabilization system, which counters body lean through electronically-controlled damping at each wheel. For those wanting more sportiness at the expense of some ride comfort, the Adaptive Ride Package is available which allows the selection of three different suspension settings.

As one might expect on a top-of-the-line luxury sedan, navigation, Bluetooth cellphone connectivity, automatic climate control, and an excellent audio system are standard. However, these are all controlled by the same single knob of the iDrive system, which has been a target of reviewer criticism since its introduction. Judging from long-term drive reports, this system can be mastered but many potential purchasers may be put off by it.

Of course, six front airbags with full cabin curtain-style head protection airbags, antilock brakes with brake control and brake distribution, traction control and dynamic stability control, as well as the BMW Emergency Assist communication system are all standard, along with a nice first aid kit.

A long list of other options is available, making it possible to build the car from a basic model with BMW's exceptional performance and luxurious ride, to a full-on leather-and- synthetic-suede cocoon with every bell and whistle conceivable. The list includes Adaptive Ride Package with electronic shock damping and controllable ride quality, sport package with high-performance tires and tighter suspension, heads-up windshield display, night vision with infrared images displayed on the nav screen, active cruise control with front radar, adjustable heated and cooled rear seats with massage, premium sound, and rear entertainment package.