Skip advert
Advertisement

BMW 7-Series

Image is everything when it comes to luxury saloons - and there is no more distinctive car in this class than BMW's 7-Series. It showcased a new design theme which divided opinion, while inside it premiered the iDrive control system.

The revisions answer the key criticisms of the 7-Series. Buyers have a choice of cutting-edge petrol and diesel units, and the BMW is great to drive. With an improved cabin and less challenging looks, the 7 is a superb luxury saloon.

Image is everything when it comes to luxury saloons - and there is no more distinctive car in this class than BMW's 7-Series. It showcased a new design theme which divided opinion, while inside it premiered the iDrive control system.

A revised version for 2005 will help the car close in on rivals from Mercedes and Jaguar. At the front, a bigger grille, reshaped lights and revised bumper give a more elegant look. Meanwhile, the bootlid carries a chrome strip and bigger lamps with a slimmer bumper. While tidy, the tail now appears ordinary compared to the previous 7.

The changes are more subtle inside, with a reshaped steering wheel and chrome-effect switches adding to the high standard of luxury and comfort. The iDrive controller now has a menu button to make operation simpler, but still is not as easy to use as rival set-ups such as Audi's MMI system.

Mechanically, the 7-Series benefits from suspension tweaks, including an increased rear track. But the superb balance between a comfortable ride and impressive handling remains.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

BMW 7 Series

BMW 7 Series

RRP £105,710Avg. savings £14,739 off RRP*Used from £15,990
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,625Avg. savings £2,795 off RRP*Used from £11,895
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £35,385Avg. savings £3,710 off RRP*Used from £15,440
Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £23,990Avg. savings £2,192 off RRP*Used from £20,921
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports
MST Ford Escort - front 3/4

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports

While not officially Fords, the MST Mk1 and Mk2 Sports should drive as sharply as they look
News
7 Jul 2025
New Mazda CX-5 revealed with fresh looks, more space and far fewer buttons
Mazda CX-5 - front

New Mazda CX-5 revealed with fresh looks, more space and far fewer buttons

The Mazda CX-5 has been revolutionised to take on the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson
News
10 Jul 2025