BMW 7 Series - Should you consider one?

The 7 Series was the first of BMW's models to employ a 'carbon core' body structure blended with aluminium and carbon fibre-reinforced plastic - and that continues with this revised version of the 'G11'-series generation model.

It offers us very much an evolutionary design and much about it is familiar - the long wheelbase and short overhangs, the flowing roofline and the 'Hofmeister kink' (the upturned line at the trailing edge of the side window graphic). Look closely though and the enhancements become obvious, most notably at the front end, which is now around 50mm taller at its foremost point. The traditional BMW kidney grille is significantly larger and features active air flap control with adjustable vanes that only open when the need for cooling air is increased. Slimmer three-dimensional rear lights and re-styled 18-21-inch alloy rims complete the key exterior changes.

Inside, there's an all-digital instrument cluster that blends with an enhanced centre-dash screen of the same size. Plus buyers get the latest version of the BMW Touch Command unit. This removable tablet with a 7-inch screen can be used from any seat and even outside the vehicle. It lets the occupants operate comfort functions such as seat adjustment, interior lighting and climate control, as well as the infotainment, navigation and communication systems.

Market and Model
With the 7 Series acting as BMW's flagship saloon, it's no surprise that you'll have to dig deep to afford one. The range kicks off with the standard length and specification 730d at around £70,000. If you're after maximum rear legroom, the long wheelbase 'L' chassis is nearly £4,000 more, with xDrive 4WD nearly £3,000 more. The 320hp 740d gets xDrive as standard but costs from around £77,000. If you want to avoid the black pump, the petrol range starts at approximately £72,000 for a 740i but a better choice might be the £77,000 745e plug-in hybrid. You'll need around £85,000 for the V8 petrol 750ixDrive - and nearly £140,000 for the V12 M760Li; don't even ask about depreciation on that one...

Standard specification includes the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant - an intelligent, digital helper who responds to the prompt "Hey BMW". This technology learns routines, habits and preferences to help the driver get the best out of the in-car functionality such as the seat heating or the places they navigate to. Drivers can also give the Personal Assistant a name for even greater individuality and personality. The Assistant is familiar with the vehicle's functions and is able to operate them as required. Saying "Hey BMW, I'm cold" will prompt the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant to adjust the temperature inside the car accordingly.

Cost of Ownership
Just because you're spending £70,000 or more on a large luxury saloon doesn't mean you'll be paying through the nose to keep it on the road. Let's look at the WLTP-rated figures. Even the 740i with its turbocharged petrol six is capable of between 31.7 and 34.0mpg on the combined cycle, while emitting 161 to 164g/km of carbon dioxide. Naturally the mainstream model consumption champion is the diesel 730d which posts figures of 41.5-44.1mpg and CO2 between 138 and 139g/km. For the 740d xDrive, you're looking at 38.2-41.5mpg; and 1480149g/km. You'll need deep company pockets to run the top 760Li xDrive petrol V12, rated at 20.8-21.6mpg and 282g/km.

A clever choice might be the 745e petrol plug-in hybrid, which offers an electric-only range of between 32 and 36 miles. The speed threshold for all-electric driving has also increased to 68mph. The combined fuel consumption figures for this plug-in hybrid luxury version is between 108.6-134.5mpg. The CO2 emissions produced when burning fuel average between 48 and 52g/km.

Summary
The 7 Series has always offered a slightly different take on the large luxury saloon. Although other vehicles may arguably offer greater passenger comfort, the big BMW has always made sure its drivers could enjoy themselves should the fancy take them. With this revised MK6 model, BMW look to have improved on this dual personality with extra tech and engineering enhancements like Integral Active Steering and Active Chassis Control.

You could argue that this car still doesn't look quite as special as some of its rivals, but then this is quite a cautious section of the market. It's also undoubtedly better looking than the previous model, managing to seem both more stately and athletic at the same time. Whether it's enough to edge out the BMWs arch nemesis the Mercedes S-Class is another question though. You'll enjoy deciding.

[johnmcc]

The Best ultimate Luxury car in the world period.

[Nigelrudyardmusic]

It's a fabulous car, brilliant inside; but that front grille is so vulgar. Lovely machine though. If I could afford one, I'd have the 730d, and be quite happy, I'm sure. Great review, as ever.

[abdulsijad]

the real question is will foo tong who owns the local chinese donald duck love it....

[nigelfarage]

If you can stomach over 50% depreciation in the first 12 months, this car is excellent.

[vaidasbmwreview]

All say what a Grill no way so ugly, you all say that and then say audi or mercedes is the best, just think 💭 is mercedes or audi has smaller grill 😂😂😂 you so media people who say that 😁, its lucks grate its better then mercedes in quality alone, never mind all other things and lucks, its one of the best drivers car thats truth, im not going to say its the best overall but it is very good, i drove i felt and i know.

[eudaldguell]

What an ugly think
Mercedes, the best or nothing