BMW 7-Series

Styling/Image
It’s fair to say that the previous generation 7-series caused a certain amount of controversy when it was unveiled in 2002. With its unconventional looks, the big BMW turned off as many buyers as attracted. In an effort to attract a wider audience, the German firm has given the new car more restrained lines. Sadly, the result is almost too understated, with the rear end having more than a hint of Lexus LS. Buyers get the choice of standard and SE trim levels, while a long wheelbase model adds an extra 140mm to the car.

Interior/Practicality
Like other limousine owners, it’s quite likely that 7-Series buyers will spend as much time in the rear as behind the wheel. There’s certainly no shortage of head and legroom, even in the short wheelbase car. Build quality is excellent and the standard wood and leather trim help lift the cabin ambience. There’s plenty of standard kit, with all versions getting sat-nav, xenon headlamps and parking sensors. However, the interior lacks the truly bespoke feel of rivals such as the Mercedes S-Class.

Engines/Performance
Like all BMWs, the 7-Series benefits from excellent engines. However, the line-up is limited to three units. At the top of the range is the 404bhp twin-turbo 4.4-litre 750i petrol, which will blast from zero to 62mph in 5.2 seconds. Also available is the 326bhp 3.0-litre six-cylinder 740i. But the pick of the bunch is the 3.0-litre diesel unit fitted to the 730d. Smooth and punchy, it’ll sprint from standstill to 62mph in 7.2 seconds, but still return nearly 40mpg at the pumps.

Driving experience
Despite its size, the 7-Series displays remarkable agility in corners. All models get the hi-tech Drive Dynamic Control (VDC), which serves-up four settings. Select Sport+ - Comfort, Normal and Sport can also be selected – and the dampers are firmed-up, while the traction control becomes less intrusive. As a result the BMW challenges much smaller models for driving thrills. There’s also an option for electronically controlled four-wheel steering, which boosts manoeuvrability around town and sharpens responses at higher speeds. Sadly, even in its softest setting, the suspension fails to deliver the sort of cosseting ride you’d expect from a luxurious flagship.

Ownership costs
In isolation the BMW looks pricy, but it actually undercuts its main rival, the Mercedes S-Class. However, there’s no getting away from the fact that 7-Series incurs big car running costs. While the oil-burning models will return a claimed 39.2mpg, you’ll struggle to achieve 25mpg in the petrol cars. Expect poor residual values too. Diesel versions are the best performers, with retained values of around 36 percent.

Safety/Environment
Few cars can match the 7-Series for safety features. All versions get six airbags, ESP, adaptive xenon headlamps and brake lights that get brighter the quicker you stop. You’d struggle to call a flagship limousine eco-friendly, but the BMW is better than most. Thanks to the firm’s Efficient Dynamics technology, the diesel-engined 730d emits a remarkably low 194g/km of CO2 and is capable of nearly 40mpg.

Our Choice: 730d SE