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7 Has A Walk On The Wild Side

Has BMW lost its bottle? The 7-Series' controversial looks caused a storm at its launch three years ago, and now the firm has played safe with the facelifted version. The model is due out this spring, and bosses hope the revisions to what they claim is the most successful 7 ever will help it keep pace with rivals.

By Ross Pinnock

02nd February 2005

Subtle design changes include a bigger version of the famous kidney grille, plus restyled headlamps; xenons are now standard across the range. New bumpers feature both front and rear, while there are slimmer tail-lights, too. Bolder side sills are another addition.

Interior changes have been kept to a minimum, with a trio of new leather finishes. Criticism of the iDrive system has clearly hit home, too, as a more user-friendly version has been fitted. However, the revisions go much more than skin deep, with extensive tweaks to improve ride and stability.

There are also two new suspension options. The Sport package is for enthusiastic motorists, while Adaptive Drive gives a choice of settings to limit body roll. Under the bonnet, there's a comprehensively revised engine range. The UK's most popular 7-Series is the 730d. It gets a lighter aluminium block and updated common-rail technology, resulting in a 12 per cent power boost. The 228bhp oil-burner will cost ΂£47,500.

The 3.0-litre petrol engine finds its way into the 730i. Capable of 28mpg, it will cost ΂£48,925. In addition, the 735i will be replaced with a 302bhp 740i, at ΂£55,350. Another model to be axed is the 745i, which makes way for a 362bhp 4.8-litre 750i, from ΂£59,700. Meanwhile, the 445bhp 760i is unchanged. The ΂£78,850 flagship can sprint from 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds - only 0.3 seconds slower than the M3 coup΃©.

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