2003 BMW 7-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.41/5 Average
125 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The big news for 2003 is the late-fall arrival of the 760Li, which combines all the greatness of the 745 while adding a 6.0-liter V12. BMW has not released U.S. output ratings, but European specs have it at 408 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. The more interesting aspect of the 760Li is that it's the first BMW with direct gasoline injection, which, in combination with the Valvetronic technology already used in the 745 models, allows for stellar performance, and according to BMW, "outstanding fuel economy." We'll wait and see on that one. In other news, all models get rear head-protection airbags, and Active Cruise Control finally makes it to the options list, along with run-flat tires. The Rear Comfort Seat package for the 745Li now includes rear-seat ventilation.

Pros:
  • Superb driving dynamics, highly advanced technology, dizzying array of features, sumptuous furnishings.
Cons:
  • Toys can be distracting from the task at hand, confusing secondary controls, odd styling details.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 125.00
  • Driving my 745Li - 2003 BMW 7-Series
    By -

    The driving of this vehicle is smooth, sound and fast. the turning power of sharp turns is incredible and the brake system allows you to stop on a dime. The extra large rear is great for passengers, who can extend their legs and feel comfortable. The drawback, too many bells and whistles. Give me a radio that I can operate like the less expensive cars. The navigation system is definetly a no-no, hard to operate, In the time it takes to set your destination you can call a friend to give you directions,which is less nerve wracking and quicker. Improvement needed on this issue. The car is great otherwise.

  • PIERO ORIOLO - 2003 BMW 7-Series
    By -

    Im a driver, I love cars, and I love quality and performance, this is one of the best sedan that i had, has better performance, excellent comfort, beautiful seats, holds road in curve. The only thing, I would like more space for cup holder, better navigation system, and definitely move the stick shift back to the console. I like the 0 maintenance.

  • Owner review - 2003 BMW 7-Series
    By -

    Imagine on a 36 month lease, shop time in excess of 45 days! One and half months out of 36! Three days to "re- program" the computer, replacement parts always available, but not the same day. Two repairs to the trunk lid, an engine hood that doesnt stay open. This was my second 7 series car and a total disappointment relative to reliability. After the dealership initiated a daily rate for a loaner car I chose to take my business elsewhere. Imagine paying for a loaner for the second repair to a warrantee covered item - on a car in this price range.

  • Nice machine - 2003 BMW 7-Series
    By -

    A great car. I cant find superlatives to describe it.

  • Watch out - 2003 BMW 7-Series
    By -

    BMW needs to get their act together. This is an electronic nightmare and BMW national is not accountable. Maybe the last BMW 7 series that I will own, after six. Confusing, non- intutive, technological stupidity with absurdly complicated difficulty in using the GPS (the worst). Get park distance control or you will bunk into walls when backing up. Test ride car, vision problem for short people.

  • Never again - 2003 BMW 7-Series
    By -

    Each required visit to the dealer for repair results in having to return to have at least 2 additional items corrected. Idiot drive aside, safety issues are of primary concern. 4 months for BMW to figure out they had to replace the modual that controls the remote key (Plastic emergency key required to open a $85,000 car). Intermitant operation of headlights and tail lights. Engine goes into idle mode at the slightest touch of break pedal. I thought the 2000 S-430 was trouble prone but would gladly trade back. The 745LI is my wifes car which I have limited her use to daylight driving only. For security reasons, she drives our Expedition or Town car when venturing out after dark.

  • fantastic vehicle - 2003 BMW 7-Series
    By -

    I purchased this 2003 745LI for $52,500 and it was a steal. I felt like I was robbing the dealership. I love this car and baby it to the utmost. (car cover) I spent $43 on my first fill-up that will certainly cure my speed demons. Great vehicle and I couldnt be happier!

  • A net positive experience - 2003 BMW 7-Series
    By -

    The idrive criticisms are generally overblown. The items you use 90% of the time are simpler on the 745 than on most cars (ie big knobs, easy to see and get to). The other 10% even gets pretty easy after several months. The bugs are a pain. They are all electrical except for the sound system which is so powerful that it causes the interior to buzz at certain pitches. But the drive is sweet and is worth the hassle.

  • 2003 BMW 760 LI - 2003 BMW 7-Series
    By -

    Couple of months ago I bought BMW 760LI, in the beginning I was kind of scared about all the talk about iDrive and reliability issue, but honestly I figured that one out in less than 5 minutes, without a manual. All the reviews regarding iDrive were written by people who really dont know how to use a computer... or were born in a generation (you know what I’m talking about...) where computer skills are non-existent. I love the fact that almost ANY function in the 7-series can be accessed through iDrive. It is actually fun but I can understand how my grandfather or even father would hate to mess with it. The drive is beautiful, reliable, attention getter, comfortable and smooth ride. 10+

  • Lemon law? A class-action suit? - 2003 BMW 7-Series
    By -

    I first picked up my 745i on 10-08 and it has been out of service a total of 20 days as of 11-16. The problem?...I am on my FOURTH new 745i loaner and all these cars have been plagued with intermittent electronics! Intermittent - nav system, cell phone, trunk release, headrests going up without warning, dash reverting to metric, radio/CD, engine check light, no audio from phone/sound system... A great dealership, but they have been plagued with a lot of problem cars.

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