BMW 7 Series Saloon

ON THE ROAD

Performance
There are two V8s of 4.0 and 4.8 litres, a smooth 6.0 V12, plus 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. All come with a six-speed automatic gearbox and each provides stunning performance, but for everyday driveability with the most tax-friendly running costs, the 3.0 diesel is favourite.

Ride & handling
The driver controls the suspension settings via the iDrive. Comfort mode allows most suspension travel, while the Sport mode gives sharper handling and tighter body control without losing any ride comfort. Body lean is well contained, and speed-sensitive steering offers accurate feedback.

Refinement
The combination of big engines and automatic transmission delivers smooth progress. However, some jerkiness can occur in stop-start traffic. Apart from some mechanical clatter at high revs and a growling exhaust note at odds with its luxury car brief, the Seven is a refined cruiser. The optional 19-inch wheels generate too much road noise.

OWNERSHIP

Buying & owning
Despite a mid-life face-lift to soften its lines, the 7 Series polarises opinion due to its individual looks. High insurance, fuel and service costs will also have an impact on residuals, which are particularly poor for petrol models. For lower running costs, private buyers and company car drivers should stick with the 3.0-litre diesel cars.

Quality & reliability
The build quality is solid. There’s no reason to question mechanical integrity, despite the high level of technology of the chassis and drivetrain. However, potentially costly failures of the complex iDrive system might give second-hand buyers pause for thought.

Safety & security
A tough passenger cell provides a strong safety platform to which a series of class-leading active safety technologies have been added. Computers control force and speed of airbag deployment; there are seatbelt force limiters front and rear, and the usual complement of stability-, traction- and brake-control systems. The only downside to security is the lack of etched windows.

IN THE CABIN

Behind the wheel
BMW’s iDrive uses a single twisting knob in the central armrest and menu screen in the dash for hundreds of functions including stereo, navigation and telephone. It cuts down on clutter, but is distracting to use. Controls for gear selection on the steering wheel and seat adjustment are poorly sited.

Space & practicality
It is a big car and there are optional long-wheelbase versions with even more space in the back. The boot has the capacity of an Audi A8’s, but it’s an awkward shape. However, BMW says it will fit four golf bags crossways inside.

Equipment
The standard level of equipment is lavish, including climate control, a six-CD changer and automatically activated headlights and wipers. All cars come with alloy wheels, hide-covered powered front seats, cruise control and parking-distance sensors. SE trim adds 18-inch alloys, a built-in phone and sat-nav. Long-wheelbase models come with standard self-levelling suspension.

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