The full-size 7-Series sedan is the largest and most luxurious model in BMW’s lineup. Twin-turbocharged engines with six, eight or twelve cylinders are available, as is all-wheel-drive and an extended-wheelbase variant. While the previous-generation 7-Series ushered in the controversial Bangle era of BMW styling, the latest model takes a much more conservative (and arguably elegant) approach while continuing to offer responsive driving dynamics along with an updated version of the automaker’s iDrive infotainment system.
Compared with the outgoing model, the latest 7-Series grows by 5.5 inches at the wheelbase. Increased use of aluminum throughout the body has cut weight by 120 lbs, despite the fact that the new car carries more standard equipment.
Inside, the cabin follows in the BMW tradition of understated elegance coupled with simple, easily decipherable instruments and controls. The one control that provided a great deal of controversy when it made its debut in the last 7-Series – iDrive – has received a host of updates over the years that make it a relatively intuitive and user-friendly device. The electronic shifter, however, can take a little getting used to. The back seat, a major selling point for cars of this class, is suitably commodious, especially in extended wheelbase “L” form.
Though its size and weight prevent it from cornering with the zeal of a 3-Series, the 7-Series still provides accurate steering along with a good tradeoff between ride comfort and handling. A new active chassis management system BMW calls IMS will give users the choice of Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport Plus settings, changing settings such as shock settings, steering effort, gear change speed and smoothness, and the sensitivity of the stability control system.
Powertrain Options
The 7-Series can be had with three separate powertrains, each designated by a unique model name.
The entry-level 740i is powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six that cranks out 315 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Though the idea of a six-cylinder engine in a sedan the size of the 7-Series might seem odd, this motor is sufficiently potent to power the big four-door from zero-to-60 mpg in the mid five-second range. That’s barely slower than the outgoing V8 model. Fuel economy is rated at 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
The 750i features a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 under the hood. Producing 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, this engine also pairs with a six-speed auto, with the combo good for a zero-to-60 mpg time of just over five seconds and gas mileage of 15/22.
The range-topping 760Li boasts a twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12 that pumps out 535 horsepower and an impressive 550 lb-ft of torque. Mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox, the big twelve-cylinder propels the car to 60 mpg from a standstill in just 4.5 seconds, although efficiency drops to 13/19 mpg.
High-Tech Options
Four-wheel steering is included on the 7-Series option list, along with an all-wheel drive option known as xDrive. With the four-wheel steering system the rear wheels will turn in the opposite direction as the front ones at speeds below 35 mph, and will turn up to three degrees in the same direction as speeds climb above that.
A new night vision system promises to increase safety for pedestrians. The new system will be able to detect human presence in front of the vehicle and then flash a warning symbol on the display. Moreover, the system will be able to tell if a pedestrian is in the road or safely on the sidewalk, although it's not clear how the system can differentiate the two.
The system is so advanced, it's also able to read speed limit signs and warn drivers when they are driving too fast. However, this feature will only be available in Europe for the time being. A lane departure warning system will notify drivers of cars in their blind spots via a vibrating steering wheel and a message on the dashboard-mounted screen, which now grows to 10.2 inches from 8.8.
The big BMW will also be keeping an eye on your speed during inclement weather. The camera can detect fog or rain, and will warn drivers when they are approaching an unsafe speed. Despite the warning, the system has no control over the speed of the vehicle so those with lead feet need not worry.
Other options include a premium stereo system, a multi-camera backup system, a rear-seat entertainment package, active blind spot control and active cruise control.
Occupant Safety
Every 7-Series model comes equipped with dual front, side and side curtain airbags along with traction and stability control systems and a crash sensor that disconnects the alternator, fuel pump and starter from battery, automatically unlocks doors and turns on hazard and interior lights in the event of a collision.
Key Competitors
The 7-Series competes against other full-size luxo-yachts like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the Audi A8 and the Jaguar XF.