BMW is a brand that’s well known for its superb saloon cars, and up there at the top of the range is the 7 Series.
A model that’s always been able to compete for class honours, it’s a true halo model for the German brand. Its advanced technology really impresses and serves as a basis for what to expect from BMW's other cars in the years to come.
The latest model moves even further upmarket with its imposing styling and tech-laden interior standing out in particular. Here’s what you need to know about the BMW 7 Series before buying.
What powertrains are available?
The 7 Series is a car that’s successfully moved with the times as it’s now available as a plug-in hybrid, along with more conventional petrol and diesel options. All feature an automatic gearbox, with some available with a choice of rear- or all-wheel-drive
Let’s start with this 745e, which combines a 3.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and battery for a combined 282bhp. Though able to reach 0-60mph in around five seconds, of more interest will be the model’s 30ish-mile electric range, which offers scope for very low running costs – BMW claims up to 156.9mpg, with CO2 emissions as low as 41g/km.
Next up are petrol options, which consist of the 740i and 750i. Let’s start with the 740i, which uses a 328bhp 3.0-litre petrol engine that’s able to accelerate the 7 Series to 60mph in 5.3 seconds. If you fancy a bit more punch you’ll want the 750i, which uses a mighty 523bhp 4.4-litre V8 that can propel this large luxury saloon to 60mph in as little as 3.8 seconds.
Next up are the diesels, with buyers able to choose from either the 730d or 740d. Each uses a 3.0-litre unit, with the 730d producing 282bhp and the 740d making 335bhp. They can manage 0-60mph in 5.4 and 4.8 seconds respectively, yet at the same time are able to return around 45mpg, which is rather good for a car of this type.
What trim levels are offered?
BMW only offers two trim levels on the 7 Series, though standard equipment is very generous. Equipment highlights and pricing are as follows.
7 Series – from £71,465
There’s no such thing as an ‘entry-level’ 7 Series, as the standard kit includes 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front and rear seats, adaptive LED headlights, soft-close doors and an electric boot. You also get a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster of the same size, along with a gesture-controlled infotainment system and Harman Kardon sound system.
M Sport – from £75,465
Upgrade to the M Sport and you’ll get 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels (depending on engine), a sportier styling kit, gloss black styling, a sports steering wheel and anthracite headlining.
What about personalisation?
There’s an extensive range of customisation available on the 7 Series, with the colour palette even including bolder shades like Aventurine Red and Tanzanite Blue, along with more reserved black, white and grey colours. There are also a range of leather options available, including red, tan, brown and cream finishes. Inside, you can also choose various headlining and decorative trim finishes as well.
A whole host of option packs are available too, such as a Technology Pack that brings the likes of adaptive cruise control and lane change assist, along with a Comfort Plus Pack that adds massaging and ventilating front seats. You can also choose screens in the rear, along with individual ‘lounge’ rear seats for more executive travel, a panoramic sunroof and premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system.
Enquire on a new BMW 7 Series
