BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022) Review
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BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022) At A Glance
Air ride provides outstanding ride quality, huge array of high tech gadgetry as standard, superb long distance comfort, strong performance from all engines.
Steering feels overly assisted even in Sport setting.
As you’d expect of a car in this class, the 7 Series rides bumps with a magically smooth ride and it has engines that range from surprisingly frugal to very fast. There’s also a hybrid model to make the BMW in tune with latest trends and you can also specify four-wheel drive. Of course, it’s still a BMW and the Seven is enjoyable to drive, though the steering is a little vague compared to a Jaguar XJ’s.
This BMW 7 Series was launched in 2016, updated in 2019 and is the largest car the German brand has ever produced. The long wheelbase version is huge and stands at more than 5.2 metres long, yet thanks to those familiar BMW proportions it hides its size well, looking more like a 6 Series Gran Coupe. This is no bulky four-door but a surprisingly sleek and good-looking saloon.
Of course, luxury cars are all about wafting around with the minimum of fuss and maximum of comfort, and the 7 Series is impeccable when it comes to how it deals with lumps, bumps and potholes. Its predecessor didn't ride very well but there are no such problems with this generation.
BMW has ditched coil springs and dampers in favour of what the Americans call 'air ride', where cushions of air take the place of more traditional steel springs to absorb the blows dished out the by the road’s surface.
This sophisticated self-levelling air suspension system comes as standard and means the 7 Series is wonderfully smooth over even the poorest of surfaces. It really comes into its own at motorway speeds where the lack of road noise and its ability to effortlessly glide along make this a relaxing car to drive or travel in. This sort of effortless ability makes it one of the main contenders for your attention and cash at this pricey end of the market.
Performance is all that you'd expect of the flagship BMW model, with the mainstay engine being the impressive 730d.
It offers all the power you need with 265PS but it's the strong in-gear acceleration that makes more of an impression in everyday driving as you just don’t expect a car of this size to build speed with such ease. It's also available with xDrive four-wheel drive for added traction and security in wet or wintery conditions.
Alternatively, there’s a more powerful 740d model or the silky smooth 740i or 750i with petrol V8. If you have bottomless pockets, the V12-powered 760i is the ultimate BMW limo in many ways, but others will prefer the frugal charms of the petrol-electric hybrid 745e.
When it comes to technology, the 7 Series can give the Starship Enterprise a run for its money. It has an iDrive system, an excellent head-up display and an incredible 360-degree camera. You can even remotely park it using the key.
There is, of course, acres of space inside, particularly in long wheelbase models, although the lengthy rear doors mean you have to be wary of standard parking bays which the 7 Series dwarfs. The interior quality is impeccable with a truly luxury feel and great attention to detail.
The only criticism of the 7 Series is the steering, which feels light and overly assisted even in its sportiest setting. Then again, this isn't a car designed to tackle tight corners. What it does do is offer more standard equipment than its S-Class rival for the same sort of money, making the BMW one of the best luxury saloons around.
Reviews for BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022)'s top 3 rivals
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BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022) handling and engines
- Engines range from 725d to 760Li
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 12–78 mpg
BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022): Handling and ride quality
The ride is always smooth and easily good enough to match the excellent Mercedes-Benz S-Class. For long motorway journeys, the combination of an effortless ride and good noise insulation means the 7 Series is a wonderfully cosseting car to travel in. Around town, the ride is equally free from jitters and jiggles.
The one let down is the steering. While the 7 Series handles impressively, the electric steering system lacks the weight you'd expect of a BMW, especially compared to the smaller 5 Series. It feels light and overly assisted, not giving you much feedback and subsequent confidence through high speed corners.
However, this is not a car that's designed for throwing through bends. As a result, we can overlook the dull steering as the 7 Series compensates with imperious stability at all speeds. It’s also easy to slot into tight spaces thanks to a good turning circle.
BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022): Engines
The 730d with 265PS pulls with gusto, yet is near silent if driven gently. It’s available with xDrive four-wheel drive plus you can opt for a long wheelbase. However, if you want those two together it means opting for the 740d with power boosted to 320PS.
BMW offers the 740i with twin-turbo six-cylinder petrol motor and the 750i that uses a 4.4-litre V8 engine. The pinnacle of the range is the 760Li with a twin turbo 6.6-litre V12 engine producing an immense 600PS.
The 745e plug-in hybrid emits just 48g/km of carbon dioxide emissions in rear-wheel drive versions or 52g/km in the 740Le xDrive model with the longer wheelbase and all-wheel drive. These emissions make the 745e exempt from the London congestion charge.
BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022): Safety
The BMW 7 Series has a carbon fibre-enhanced body structure to make it lighter and more crash-resistant. Every 7 Series has twin front and side airbags, and curtain airbags that extend the full length of the cabin.
Autonomous emergency braking helps to avoid collisions and BMW also fits its Icon Adaptive LED headlights, Dynamic Safety pack, High Beam Assistant and a Drive Recorder.
The 7 Series in all guises also comes with the Parking Assistant Plus pack that includes rear view camera, parking sensors and surround view. It will also help guide the car into a parking space by working the steering.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 725d | 55–56 mpg | 6.9 s | 122–126 g/km |
| 725Ld | 55–56 mpg | 7.0 s | 123–127 g/km |
| 730d | 50–52 mpg | 5.8–6.1 s | 124–142 g/km |
| 730d MHEV | - | 6.1 s | 147–154 g/km |
| 730d MHEV xDrive | - | 5.3–6.1 s | 158–165 g/km |
| 730d xDrive | 49–50 mpg | 5.8 s | 132–148 g/km |
| 730Ld | 50–57 mpg | 6.2 s | 127–143 g/km |
| 730Ld MHEV | - | 6.2 s | 148–155 g/km |
| 740d | 47 mpg | 5.2 s | 134 g/km |
| 740d MHEV xDrive | - | 5.3 s | 158–165 g/km |
| 740d xDrive | 46–47 mpg | 5.2 s | 134–155 g/km |
| 740e | - | 5.4 s | 49–50 g/km |
| 740i | - | - | 161–166 g/km |
| 740Ld MHEV xDrive | - | 5.4 s | 159–166 g/km |
| 740Ld xDrive | 46–46 mpg | 5.3 s | 137–156 g/km |
| 740Le xDrive | 97 mpg | 5.3 s | 54–56 g/km |
| 740Li | 40–42 mpg | 5.6–5.7 s | 159–184 g/km |
| 745e | - | 5.2 s | 48–51 g/km |
| 745Le xDrive | - | 5.1 s | 52–57 g/km |
| 750i | 35–35 mpg | 4.7 s | 186 g/km |
| 750i xDrive | - | 4.0 s | 217 g/km |
| 760Li | 22 mpg | 3.7 s | 294 g/km |
| M760Li xDrive | - | 3.8 s | 282 g/km |
Real MPG average for the BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
79%
Real MPG
12–78 mpg
MPGs submitted
97
BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022) interior
- Boot space is 500–515 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 5098–5268 mm |
| Width | 2142–2169 mm |
| Height | 1457–1485 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3070–3210 mm |
BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022): Practicality
The BMW 7 Series driver’s seat is electrically adjusted and has a memory function. There’s also powered adjustment for the steering wheel position, so finding the ideal driving position is a cinch.
You’ll find the 7 Series offers a good view to the front and side, though the rear of the car can seem a very long way off. Luckily, every 7 Series come with all-round parking sensors that are very accurate and a rear parking camera. This is just as well as the 7 Series is a big car that occupies the whole of most parking spaces.
Nobody is going to feel short-changed on space when they are sitting in the back of the BMW 7 Series. If you do feel the need for a little more leg and knee room, the long wheelbase model adds an extra 14cm. The boot is also up to the job of accommodating all necessary luggage requirements.
BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022): Quality and finish
Yes, it's an expensive car, but that's reflected in the leather finish on the dash top and doors, while all the buttons and switches are finished in aluminium, as are the door handles and engine start button.
That impression continues as your hands come into contact with more of the cabin’s surfaces. Everything has a solidly manufactured feel and all of the controls work with the sort of precision and positive actions that quietly impart a deep sense of satisfaction in the user.
BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022): Infotainment
The BMW 7 Series’ iDrive system has been improved and the main 12.3-inch colour display is now a touchscreen, in line with most other cars at this level. Still, many will find it easier to use the dial control down by the gear lever as it’s very simple to operate and behaves in the same way as a computer mouse.
The display is fairly easy to navigate and there are also shortcut buttons to take you to favourite pages in an instant. All of this can also be worked using ‘Hey BMW’, which is a voice-activated system that acts as your onboard butler.
BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022) value for money
BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022): Prices
With the 7 Series, BMW's Divide deal means you agree to a 24-month deal where you pay between 40- and 60 per cent of the car’s list price up front. After that, you pay as little as £1 per month with the option to pay the outstanding balance to own the car outright or just hand it back and begin a new deal for another car.
For some, the choice of contract hire, personal contract plan or hire purchase will be more suitable and BMW has packages for all of these finance products that apply to the 7 Series.
Depreciation is rarely kind to large luxury cars and so it proves with the BMW 7 Series. You can find four-year old examples of the 730d with 30,000 miles under its nose from £23,000. This will give you a choice of standard or M Sport models and also a fair selection of long wheelbase versions too.
If you’d rather look for a younger example, nearly new and pre-registered 7 Series can be found from £63,000 from a BMW dealer. That’s a significant £13,000 saving on the £75,720 list price of a 730d M Sport model. If you take a nearly new car with a mere 1500 miles under its wheels, you could have the same model for £55,000 to save yourself a sizeable £20,0000 on that new price.
BMW 7 Series (2016 – 2022): Running Costs
The next best is the 730d with 44.8mpg in standard wheelbase form. Real MPG figures tell us the 730d is able to offer 45.4mpg average economy.
It won’t take the services of Hercule Poirot to work out the BMW 7 Series is a pricey car to insure. All 745e plug-in hybrid models sit in group 50 and so do the 750i and 760Li models.
For more affordable premiums, the 740i is in group 48 in standard wheelbase form, but the longer version trips into group 49. The 730d also sits in group 49 unless you choose the M Sport model that sits in group 50 alongside the 740d.
The 745e saves you money on road tax as you pay noting in the first year and in subsequent years it comes in at £465 as you pay the £325 additional tax for a car with a list price over £40,000 on top of the £140 for an alternative fuel vehicle.
The 730d costs £870 for the first year and £475 for subsequent years. Take the 740d and that rises to £1305. However, the 750i requires £1850, while the 760Li weighs in at £2175.
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The 730d comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, powered boot lid opening, soft-close doors and metallic paint. It also has climate control, heated and electrically adjusted front comfort seats, and leather upholstery throughout, plus heated rear seats.
Every Seven has cruise control with braking function and Parking Assistant Plus, plus Gesture Control to work the 12.3-inch colour infotainment touchscreen. The 750i upgrades with 19-inch alloy wheels, while long wheelbase versions get an electrically operated glass sunroof and roller blind for the rear windows.
M Sport versions have 19-inch alloy wheels, aerodynamic body kit and runflat tyres. They also have an anthracite headlining, M Sport steering wheel and glossy black wood dash trim.
Choose the 760Li and it has 20-inch alloy wheels, Merino leather upholstery, Bowers and Wilkins surround stereo system, comfort rear seats, and TV Function Plus. The Ultimate Pack delivers a sport braking system, Climate Comfort glass, massaging and ventilated seats, Executive Lounge rear console, sun blinds, and driver’s head-up display. You also get TV Function Plus, uprated stereo and Remote Control Parking using the key.
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 5098–5268 mm |
| Width | 2142–2169 mm |
| Height | 1457–1485 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3070–3210 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1725–2180 kg |
| Boot Space | 500–515 L |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Servicing | 15000–30000 miles |
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £63,040–£161,370 |
| Insurance Groups | 44–50 |
| Road Tax Bands | A–M |
| Official MPG | 22.1–113.0 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
On sale until November 2022
| Limousine | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 730Ld 730Ld Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr | £77,305 | - | 6.2 s |
| 730Ld M Sport 730Ld Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr | £81,305 | - | 6.2 s |
| 740Ld xDrive 740Ld xDrive Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr | £85,840 | - | 5.4 s |
| 740Ld xDrive M Sport 740Ld xDrive Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr | £89,840 | - | 5.4 s |
| 740li 3.0 Auto LCI G12 4dr | - | - | 5.6 s |
| 740li 3.0 M Sport Auto LCI G12 4dr | - | - | 5.6 s |
| 745le 3.0 xDrive Auto LCI G12 4dr | £88,245 | - | 5.1 s |
| 745le 3.0 xDrive M Sport Auto LCI G12 4dr | £92,260 | - | 5.1 s |
| M760li 6.6 xDrive V12 Auto LCI G12 4dr | - | - | 3.8 s |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 730d 730d Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr | £73,305 | - | 6.1 s |
| 730d M Sport 730d Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr | £77,305 | - | 6.1 s |
| 730d xDrive 730d xDrive Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr | £76,400 | - | 6.1 s |
| 730d xDrive M Sport 730d xDrive Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr | £80,400 | - | 5.3 s |
| 740d xDrive 740d xDrive Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr | £81,840 | - | 5.3 s |
| 740d xDrive M Sport 740d xDrive Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr | £85,840 | - | 5.3 s |
| 740i 3.0 Auto LCI G11 4dr | - | - | - |
| 740i 3.0 M Sport Auto LCI G11 4dr | - | - | - |
| 745e 3.0 Auto LCI G11 4dr | £81,350 | - | 5.2 s |
| 745e 3.0 M Sport Auto LCI G11 4dr | £85,350 | - | 5.2 s |
| 750i 4.4 M Sport xDrive Auto LCI G11 4dr | - | - | 4.0 s |
| 750i 4.4 xDrive Auto LCI G11 4dr | - | - | 4.0 s |
On sale until November 2020
| Limousine | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 730ld 3.0 Auto LCI G12 4dr | - | - | - |
| 730ld 3.0 M Sport Auto LCI G12 4dr | - | - | - |
| 740ld 3.0 xDrive Auto LCI G12 4dr | - | - | - |
| 740ld 3.0 xDrive M Sport Auto LCI G12 4dr | - | - | - |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 730d 3.0 Auto LCI G11 4dr | - | - | - |
| 730d 3.0 M Sport Auto LCI G11 4dr | - | - | - |
| 730d 3.0 xDrive Auto LCI G11 4dr | - | - | - |
| 730d 3.0 xDrive M Sport Auto LCI G11 4dr | - | - | - |
| 740d 3.0 xDrive Auto LCI G11 4dr | - | - | - |
| 740d 3.0 xDrive M Sport Auto LCI G11 4dr | - | - | - |
On sale until July 2019
| Limousine | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 725Ld 2.0 Auto G12 4dr | £67,040 | 56.4 mpg | 7.0 s |
| 725Ld 2.0 Exclusive Auto G12 4dr | £68,540 | 56.4 mpg | 7.0 s |
| 725Ld 2.0 M Sport Auto G12 4dr | £72,040 | 55.3 mpg | 7.0 s |
| 730Ld 3.0 Auto G12 4dr | £71,130 | 50.4 mpg | 6.2 s |
| 730Ld 3.0 Exclusive Auto G12 4dr | £72,630 | 50.4 mpg | 6.2 s |
| 730Ld 3.0 M Sport Auto G12 4dr | £76,130 | 50.4 mpg | 6.2 s |
| 740Ld 3.0 xDrive Auto G12 4dr | £79,085 | 46.3 mpg | 5.3 s |
| 740Ld 3.0 xDrive Exclusive Auto G12 4dr | £80,585 | 46.3 mpg | 5.3 s |
| 740Ld 3.0 xDrive M Sport Auto G12 4dr | £84,085 | 45.5 mpg | 5.3 s |
| 740Le 2.0 xDrive Auto G12 4dr | £78,340 | - | 5.3 s |
| 740Le 2.0 xDrive Exclusive Auto G12 4dr | £79,840 | - | 5.3 s |
| 740Le 2.0 xDrive M Sport Auto G12 4dr | £83,340 | 97.4 mpg | 5.3 s |
| 740Li 3.0 Auto G12 4dr | £74,720 | 41.5 mpg | 5.6 s |
| 740Li 3.0 Exclusive Auto G12 4dr | £76,220 | 41.5 mpg | 5.6 s |
| 740Li 3.0 M Sport Auto G12 4dr | £79,720 | 40.4 mpg | 5.6 s |
| M760Li 6.6 xDrive The Next 100 Yrs G12 4dr | £161,370 | 22.1 mpg | - |
| M760Li 6.6 xDrive V12 Auto G12 4dr | £138,335 | 22.1 mpg | 3.7 s |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 725d 2.0 Auto G11 4dr | £63,040 | 56.4 mpg | 6.9 s |
| 725d 2.0 Exclusive Auto G11 4dr | £64,540 | 56.4 mpg | 6.9 s |
| 725d 2.0 M Sport Auto G11 4dr | £68,040 | 55.3 mpg | 6.9 s |
| 730d 3.0 Auto G11 4dr | £67,130 | 52.3 mpg | 6.1 s |
| 730d 3.0 Exclusive Auto G11 4dr | £68,630 | 52.3 mpg | 6.1 s |
| 730d 3.0 M Sport Auto G11 4dr | £72,130 | 51.3 mpg | 6.1 s |
| 730d 3.0 xDrive Auto G11 4dr | £70,105 | 49.5 mpg | 5.8 s |
| 730d 3.0 xDrive Exclusive Auto G11 4dr | £71,605 | 49.5 mpg | 5.8 s |
| 730d 3.0 xDrive M Sport Auto G11 4dr | £75,105 | 48.7 mpg | 5.8 s |
| 740d 3.0 xDrive Auto G11 4dr | £75,085 | 47.0 mpg | 5.2 s |
| 740d 3.0 xDrive Exclusive G11 4dr | £76,585 | 47.0 mpg | 5.2 s |
| 740d 3.0 xDrive M Sport Auto G11 4dr | £80,085 | 46.3 mpg | 5.2 s |
| 740e 2.0 Auto G11 4dr | £71,740 | - | 5.4 s |
| 740e 2.0 Exclusive Auto G11 4dr | £73,240 | - | 5.4 s |
| 740e 2.0 M Sport Auto G11 4dr | £76,740 | - | 5.4 s |
| 750i 4.4 Auto G11 4dr | £79,175 | 35.3 mpg | 4.7 s |
| 750i 4.4 Exclusive Auto G11 4dr | £80,675 | 35.3 mpg | 4.7 s |
| 750i 4.4 M Sport Auto G11 4dr | £84,175 | 34.9 mpg | 4.7 s |
On sale until April 2017
| Limousine | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| M760Li 6.6 xDrive The Next 100 Yrs G12 4dr | £160,490 | 22.1 mpg | - |
On sale until November 2015
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 740Li 3.0 M Sport Auto G12 4dr | £75,710 | 40.4 mpg | 5.7 s |
On sale until October 2015
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 730Ld 265 M Sport Auto 4dr | £75,710 | 56.5 mpg | 6.2 s |
| 740Li 326 Auto 4dr | £68,480 | 41.5 mpg | 5.6 s |
Model History
- January 0001
- February 2016: BMW 760Li flagship model launched
- April 2016: BMW 760Li 100 Centennial model announced
- May 2016: iPerformance 740e and 740Le xDrive launched
- July 2016: BMW 740e and 740Le xDrive go on sale
- January 2017: Additional driver assistance systems added
- February 2017
- January 2019: BMW 7 Series facelifted for 2019
January 0001
12-10-2015: New BMW 7 Series unveiledCarbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic 'Carbon Core' makes it up to 130kg lighter than fifth generation 7 Series.
5,098mm long (LWB: 5,238mm long) x 1,902mm wide (exc mirrors) x 1,478mm high (LWB: 1,485mm high). (The wheelbase of the LWB is 14cm longer, at 3,210mm and offers extra rear space as a result.)
Two non-metallic and nine metallic colour shades are available for the exterior paintwork of the new BMW 7 Series. Another two variants can be ordered exclusively in conjunction with the M Sport package and also one BMW Individual special paint finish completing the set. Depending on the model variant, the new BMW 7 Series comes as standard with either 18- or 19-inch light-alloy wheels, while the options list and Original BMW Accessories range offer a selection of other light-alloy wheels in 18- to 21-inch sizes.
M Sport models include an M aerodynamic body styling package comprising model-specific front/rear aprons and side skirts, plus 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in twin-spoke design, illuminated door sill finishers bearing the M logo and accents in either light or dark chrome. Inside there’s a BMW Individual headliner in Anthracite and Fineline black wood interior trim strips with high-gloss metal effect.
The six-cylinder in-line engines, with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology stem from the BMW Group’s latest generation of engines. The 3.0-litre petrol unit under the bonnet of the BMW 740Li produces an output of 326PS, 7PS more than the engine it replaces.
The diesel engine powering the BMW 730d and BMW 730Ld models has a 3.0-litre capacity and likewise boasts a 7PS increase in output, in this case to 265PS combined with superior efficiency. Peak torque is now 620Nm, which translates into formidable pulling power.
There are also two new plug-in hybrid models: the BMW 740e, and the BMW 740Le xDrive. The intelligently controlled interaction between a 2.0-litre petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and an electric drive unit integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic transmission endows the BMW 740e with dynamic acceleration yet very low consumption and emissions figures in everyday driving. While producing a total system output of 326PS, it returns a combined fuel consumption of 134.5mpg in the guise of the BMW 740e or a combined electric power consumption of 12.5 kWh. CO2 emissions are just 49g/km.
The standard-fit eight-speed Steptronic transmission contributes to further efficiency savings with its wider ratio spread, reduced weight and optimised calibration. A new transmission control system makes for more comfortable shifting and allows the transmission to be linked up with the standard Navigation system. An eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with shift paddles on the steering wheel is available as an option (standard on M Sport models), which also features a Launch Control function.
The iDrive system’s operating concept has been expanded to include the method so familiar from consumer electronics devices: when combined with the standard Navigation system the iDrive operating system’s monitor comes in the form of a touch display for the first time.
The system can furthermore be specified with the addition of BMW Gesture Control, which is also being premiered in the new BMW 7 Series. By making specific hand movements in the vicinity of the centre console - where a 3D sensor registers them - commonly used infotainment system functions can be controlled very intuitively and conveniently. The various gestures serve, for instance, to adjust the audio volume, control the 3D view display and accept or reject incoming phone calls.
There’s a new-generation Head-Up Display that comes with a 75 per cent larger projection area, while the displayed information and images offer further improved quality and detail and are presented in full colour. And the new BMW 7 Series is the first production car in the world that can be manoeuvred into and out of forward parking or garage spaces without the driver even having to be sitting inside the vehicle.
Under the standard electrically operated tailgate a broad, level load space opens up offering luggage capacity of 515 litres. The optional through-loading system provides an aperture into the cabin measuring 20cms wide and 24cms high. The standard Comfort Access feature, includes hands-free opening and closing of the boot lid.
The luggage compartment of the BMW 740e and BMW 740Le xDrive models likewise features a level surface and provides 420 litres of space, which far exceeds that of comparable plug-in hybrid models in this segment. Lowering the cover in the rear section of the boot and opening the side storage compartments provides additional stowage space.
February 2016
BMW 760Li flagship model launched
With TwinPower Turbo technology incorporated for the first time, this new M Performance engine produces 600PS and 800Nm of torque. It’s harnessed by a highly sophisticated chassis specifically tailored to the model, and deployed to the road via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system with a rear-bias for more dynamic handling.
The new model is instantly recognisable thanks to the M Performance body enhancements, specific trim details and unique 20-inch alloy wheels. An active quad exit exhaust system ensures that, when desired, the presence of the new M760Li xDrive V12 can be heard as well as seen.
Inside, the M760Li xDrive V12 retains the luxurious ambience of the new BMW 7 Series, but adds sporting elements such as the M Performance steering wheel and illuminated V12 logo and exclusive M pedals. Naturally, the specification of the car is extremely high, with a long list of comfort, convenience, safety and dynamic driving features.
April 2016
BMW 760Li 100 Centennial model announced
Features a variety of special additions unique to it alone. Recognised by BMW Individual exterior colour Centennial Blue metallic, the colour variant is attained by a particularly elaborate painting process.
An exclusive, handcrafted signet bearing the lettering “THE NEXT 100 YEARS” adorns the B pillars, the interior strips above the glove compartment on the passenger side as well as the front and rear seat headrests. The cover of the cup holder located in the front area of the centre console bears the inscription “1 of 100”.
This limited edition model is based on the M760Li xDrive V12 engine. With TwinPower Turbo technology incorporated from the M760Li xDrive V12 model, this M Performance engine produces 610hp and 800Nm of torque. It’s harnessed by a highly sophisticated chassis specifically tailored to the model, with Integral Active Steering as standard, and deployed to the road via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system with a rear-bias for more dynamic handling.
May 2016
iPerformance 740e and 740Le xDrive launched
Externally, iPerformance cars are identifiable only by eDrive badges on the C-pillars, the charging point flap on the nearside front wing and, in some cases, i badges on the front wings. Customers can, however, specify iPerformance exterior styling at no additional cost. This consists of blue slats on the BMW kidney grille and blue alloy wheel hubs. Internally, iPerformance models have eDrive menus in the black panel display and, in most cases, eDrive designation on the door sills.
All iPerformance models benefit from the advanced electronic motors, high-performance lithium-ion batteries and intelligent energy management systems developed by BMW for the all-electric i3 and plug-in hybrid i8.
In the BMW 740e and BMW 740Le xDrive the combination of a 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo petrol engine and a synchronised electric motor produces a combined 326hp, with spontaneous delivery and exemplary efficiency. They are capable of covering up to 29 miles on electric power alone – sufficient for the majority of urban commutes – while CO2 emissions are between 49 and 56g/km and fuel consumption is from 134.5 to 113mpg.
July 2016
BMW 740e and 740Le xDrive go on sale
OTR prices for the BMW 740e and 740Le xDrive start from £68,330 and £74,880 and are available in the Exclusive or M Sport trim.
Working intelligently together, the combustion engine produces an output of 258PS while the electric drive system produces 112PS, resulting in a combined system output of 326PS and a combined peak torque of 500Nm. The immediate response of the accelerator and sustained delivery of dynamic power allow the BMW 740e to accelerate from zero to 62mph in 5.4 seconds and the BMW 740Le xDrive to complete the same sprint in 5.3 seconds.
The high-voltage lithium-ion battery has a gross capacity of 9.2kWh and net capacity of 7.4kWh. It is stored underneath the rear seat bench in a space-saving position that also provides optimum crash safety. In line with the BMW 7 Series models, the BMW 740e and BMW 740Le xDrive also benefit from a level surface in the luggage compartment, which offers a capacity of 420 litres. The stowage volume and practicality of the load area sets the benchmark in the luxury plug-in hybrid sedan segment.
The energy flow between the high-voltage battery, electric motor and charger is controlled by power electronics likewise developed specifically for these models. The power electronics also regulate the supply of energy from the high-voltage battery to the 12V on-board electrical system via a voltage transformer.
The cars’ sporty driving characteristics are accompanied by extraordinarily low petrol consumption and emissions. The BMW 740e records a combined fuel consumption of 134.5mpg whilst the 740Le xDrive achieves 117.7mpg. The CO2 emissions associated with petrol consumption are 49g/km and 54g/km respectively. The efficiency of the BMW eDrive technology developed using know-how from BMW i is proven in the all-electric, locally emission-free driving resulting in a range of 29 miles.
January 2017
Additional driver assistance systems added
From March 2017, there will be a broader choice of driver assistance systems to enhance driving pleasure, comfort and safety in BMW 7 Series models. The systems will be included in the optional equipment package Driving Assistant Plus and will offer the driver effective assistance in many different situations, ultimately leading the way to automated driving.
A further addition to the range of Driving Assistant Plus functions is the ActiveAssist Collision Avoidance system. Should a rapid lane change become necessary in order to avoid a suddenly appearing obstacle, it provides steering assistance at speeds of up to 100mph. The Cross Traffic Alert function, also included in the equipment package from March, provides visual and acoustic signals if the traffic signs identified by the stereo camera should indicate that the driver has overlooked a road with right of way.
The new Driving Assistant Plus features are complemented by the Wrong-Way Driving Alert feature. This system analyses navigation data in order to provide information on hazardous situations. It intervenes when the vehicle is driving in the wrong direction into one-way streets, roundabouts or motorway entrances.
February 2017
BMW M760Li xDrive revealed The 6.6-litre V12 develops output of 610PS with peak torque of 800Nm. The high-performance unit with leading-edge M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology accelerates the BMW M760Li xDrive from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.7 seconds on the way to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.
January 2019
BMW 7 Series facelifted for 2019
Updated BMW 7 Series goes on sale in April 2019 with prices starting at £69,430.
The most obvious change is its enormous new grille - similar to that used on the X7 and intended to appeal to customers in China and the US. Buyers can choose between standard and long wheelbase versions. Both are longer than before.
A 12-cylinder petrol engine top the range. This 6.6-litre 585PS unit with a peak torque of 850Nm is used to power the BMW M760Li xDrive. Top speed is electronically limited to 155mph. The benchmark zero to 62mph sprint can be achieved in 3.8 seconds, combined fuel consumption is 20.8-21.6mpg while CO2 emissions are at 282g/km.
The BMW 750i xDrive features an uprated 4.4-litre V8 that offers a maximum power output of 530PS – 80PS more than the engine it replaces. Peak torque is up by 100Nm to 750Nm. As a consequence, the BMW 750i xDrive sprints from zero to 62mph in 4.0 seconds. It returns a combined fuel consumption of 25.7-26.4mpg with CO2 emissions of 217g/km. The flap-controlled M Sport exhaust system fitted as standard produces an exhilarating soundtrack to match the power delivery.
The entry level petrol engine comes in the form of the BMW 740i and 740Li. With a power output of 340PS and a peak torque of 450Nm, the 740i and the 740Li accelerates from 5.5 and 5.6 seconds, respectively. The fuel consumption figures are between 31.7-34.0mpg and 31.0-33.6mpg, with CO2 emissions of 161g/km and 164g/km.
There's a plug-in hybrid version available, badged the 745e and 745Le xDrive. This pairs a six-cylinder in-line engine with a high-voltage battery, to provide more power and torque, plus improved figures for electric range, consumption and CO2 emissions.
The plug-in hybrid models that will be available at the launch of the new BMW 7 Series in spring 2019 feature a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine from the current BMW Efficient Dynamics family of power units with maximum output of 286PS and an electric motor with a rated output of 113PS and a peak torque of 265Nm. With the Driving Experience Control switch set to SPORT mode, total power of 394PS is available, while the maximum combined torque for the plug-in hybrid variants in the new BMW 7 Series is up to 600Nm.
The new plug-in hybrid drive technology enables the BMW 745e and BMW 745Le xDrive models to record zero to 62mph times of between 5.3 and 5.1 seconds while achieving an electric-only range of between 32 and 36 miles. The speed threshold for all-electric driving has also increased to 68mph. The combined fuel consumption figures for the plug-in hybrid luxury versions are between 108.6-134.5mpg. The CO2 emissions produced when burning fuel average between 48 and 52g/km.
