Overview & Reviews

Since its introduction for the 1978 model year, the BMW 7 Series luxury sedan has remained true to its original character. It's the BMW flagship, and this full-size, rear-wheel-drive sedan has always represented the pinnacle of technology and luxury in the German automaker's lineup. As such, it's an obvious choice for discerning buyers seeking a spacious and elegant sedan with a high level of curbside prestige.

There's a fair amount of competition in this elite vehicle class, but the 7 Series sedan's athletic handling dynamics have long set it apart, starting with the early 733s and carrying through to the five present-day 7 Series models. While other manufacturers have historically been content to build high-end sedans with soft, serene rides, BMW engineers its 7s to engage their drivers on an emotional level. There are a few recent contenders that have gone after this emotional engagement, so the 7 Series is no longer the only game in town, but it remains a prime luxury sedan for people who like to drive.

Current BMW 7 Series
The current 7 Series is offered in five different models. The 740i and long-wheelbase 740Li feature a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 good for 315 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The 750i and 750Li feature a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that cranks out 445 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. The top-of-the-line 760Li features a 6.0-liter V12 that produces 535 hp and 550 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive are standard across the board, while all-wheel drive ("xDrive") is optional for the 740 and 750 models. All are very quick, with even the 740i being able to run from zero to 60 mph in a claimed 5.6 seconds.

The 7 Series boasts a handsome, spacious interior with supple leather and rich wood accents adorning almost every surface. Highly adjustable front seats ensure comfort for virtually every body type. The 7 also showcases a wealth of high-tech luxury features such as a night-vision camera and sideview cameras. Some may still find the iDrive electronics interface system a bit complicated, but we think the current model's improved layout is an elegant solution to a button-heavy dashboard.

Although rear passenger space is limolike, especially in Li form, the 7 Series remains a standout in the handling department. The "Dynamic Driving Control" system contributes to this status, featuring four different settings that alter the driving characteristics of the car. We'd bet good money that most folks will leave it on "Normal," but it certainly rewards owners who like to customize their cars to their own driving tastes. Only recently has the 7 Series begun to be challenged by athletic new rivals in this segment.

Used BMW 7 Series Models
The current, fifth-generation 7 Series debuted for 2009. Compared to the controversial previous model, its styling is considerably more restrained, with tauter bodywork and a conventional trunk design. The interior is also more traditional. The gear selector has migrated from the steering column back to the center console, for example, and the iDrive electronics interface is vastly improved. Turbocharged engines are now the norm for BMW's top sedan.

There have been a handful of notable changes during the current 7 Series' production run. In its first year, the big Bimmer could only be had in 750i or 750Li trim with rear-wheel drive. The 760Li arrived for 2010, while the 740i debuted the following year, becoming the first six-cylinder 7 Series in two decades. For 2013, the 750's twin-turbo V8 was upgraded from its original output (400 hp, 450 lb-ft) to current levels, while the 740 received a new inline-6 with a single turbocharger in place of the original twin-turbo engine. The iDrive interface was also updated for 2013, and an eight-speed automatic became the standard transmission on all 7 Series models.

The previous-generation BMW 7 Series was produced from 2002-'08 and was by far the most radical version of the nameplate. Traditional exterior styling cues from the previous 25 years were largely abandoned in favor of a more aggressive, avant-garde design. The car was still recognizable as a 7 Series, but many purists found the look abrasive. A refresh for 2006 smoothed out some of the harsher elements, but it's still a stretch to call this car beautiful, whether in standard-wheelbase 750i or long-wheelbase 750Li/760Li form (previously known as "iL").

With the exception of 2002, when only a V8 was offered, the fourth-generation 7 Series lineup always included sophisticated eight- and 12-cylinder engines paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The 745i and 745Li sold from 2002-'05 were equipped with a 325-hp 4.4-liter V8, while the 750i and 750Li that succeeded them had a 360-hp 4.8-liter V8. The 750s were slightly heavier, so performance was about the same as for the 745s.

Offered continuously from 2003, the 760Li had a 6.0-liter V12 capable of 438 hp. Unlike the V8s, which are eager to rev, the V12 delivers a massive wave of thrust as soon as you nudge the accelerator pedal. BMW offered a short-wheelbase 760i from 2004-'06.

The edgy exterior styling of this generation carried over to the cabin, where BMW's typically button-heavy control layout gave way to an all-in-one system called iDrive that governed climate, audio and navigation functions via a single console-mounted dial and a central display. Although iDrive assured the 7's place in the information age, its steep learning curve proved bewildering for many a 7 Series driver. During the car's lifespan, iDrive was consistently upgraded, so newer models will come with later (and less maddening) versions of this control device. Be sure to thoroughly exercise the iDrive system before purchasing a 7 Series of this vintage.

Despite its quirks, the 2002-'08 BMW 7 Series proved quite popular, not least because of its superb driving experience. Here BMW applied its arsenal of technology to great effect, as features like self-stiffening antiroll bars, self-leveling air springs and adaptive shock absorbers worked together to keep the big sedan exceptionally stable when driven hard. However, it's complexity like this that makes the fourth-generation 7 Series an intimidating used car in terms of expected maintenance costs. "Buyer beware" is the operative phrase here.

The third-generation 7 Series, sold from 1995-2001, is generally regarded as a high point in the model's history. It was a true driver's car just like today's 7, but there was less in-car technology to distract from the task at hand. And most people agree that its sleek, classically styled body is easier on the eyes.

The model lineup included the regular-wheelbase 740i sedan, which was offered every year except 1996, and the long-wheelbase 740iL and 750iL, which had an uninterrupted run. The BMW 740s were powered by a 282-hp 4.4-liter (4.0-liter in 1995) V8, while the 750iL had a 5.4-liter V12 good for 326 hp. All 7s came with a five-speed automatic transmission. Either setup provided strong acceleration, but fuel economy was poor by today's standards.

A well-kept third-generation 7 Series could be a rewarding purchase if you've got the time and budget to keep it on the road. The main advantage to choosing a car from later in the model cycle is added standard feature content. BMW's Dynamic Stability Control system, for example, debuted across the line for 1998. Quality was generally excellent on these cars, but like most high-end German products, this 7 Series can incur hefty repair costs over time.

Similar in style and focus to its successor, the second-generation BMW 7 Series was on sale from 1988-'94. This was the first 7 Series to include both regular- and long-wheelbase models, the advantage to the latter being increased rear legroom. For most of the cycle, the base engine was a 208-hp 3.4-liter inline six-cylinder offered in 735i and 735iL models. A four-speed automatic transmission was standard, but a five-speed manual was offered as well. The 282-hp 4.0-liter V8 replaced the inline-6 in 1993, yielding the 740i and 740iL, both of which took a five-speed automatic only. The BMW 750iL was offered throughout the run; the first V12-equipped BMW, it had a 296-hp 5.0-liter engine and a four-speed automatic.

The first-generation BMW 7 Series enjoyed a long run from 1978-'87. It was the largest sedan the company had ever built and directly targeted the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. All 7s of this era were powered by an inline six-cylinder engine.

User Reviews:

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  PIERO ORIOLO - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By 4 dr 745 li - February 5 - 8:24 pm

  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.

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  Truly The Ultimate Driving Machine - 2006 BMW 7-Series
  By BMW owner - February 2 - 7:15 am

  This car is simply amazing. I have a 2005 Audi A8, 2005 Jaguar xj8 and a 2004 Mercedes S 500, but they all fall short of the new BMW 750i. The 750i has loads of power, outstanding performance and razor sharp steering. Overall great styling, turn heads and attracts attention like nothing else! This is one of the few cars that I could feel very safe driving yet enjoy its power and sporty features. When I drive the 750 I feel compelled to push it to the limit to really understand the BMW slogan ‘the ultimate driving machine’. The 750 takes on curves like a pro. Also, the iDrive system is extremely user friendly and very easy to use.

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  A wonderful car - 2004 BMW 7-Series
  By David Cohn - February 1 - 2:00 am

  After owning Mercedes cars for 24 years straight (most recently an S class), I bought my first BMW. It has the best performance and interior of any vehicle I have ever driven. The exterior may be controversial, but I love it. The electronics are wonderful. If you have any experience with a PC, you will find the I-Drive to be intuitive, easy to use and useful. BMWs engineers were thinking clearly and creatively when they designed this car.

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  The Ultimate Disaster Machine! - 1998 BMW 7-Series
  By Lucian - January 30 - 1:51 am

  Looks can be deceiving! Lets see, purchased car at 58k, coolant sensor broke at 59K, tire alignmnet at 60K, fuel pump 61K, cat converter at 63K, sealant around windows at 63K all that in one yr. That yr i only put on the car 8k miles in hot weather! It has been nighmare after nightmare. Thanks BMW i hope ur happy in Stuttgart. Hire new engineers? That would be a good start.

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  Owner review - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By Richard - January 26 - 9:43 am

  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.

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  2004 745i - 2004 BMW 7-Series
  By TONY S - January 23 - 11:36 pm

  What a dream car!, Looks, handling, great quality are typical of this and my previous 3 BMWs. After being inundated by all the new procedures from the starting to operating the vehicles too numerous features, I longed for the old simple Brake and gas models. But as I began to read and reread and reread I have begun to understand and use the (too many) features (most of which a normal person would never use or need needless to say understand). But from the solid door closing to the massaging seats to the sound system and the road holding traction its a BMW. Brilliantly Manufactured Wonder. Yes! I do like my BMW.

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  Better than the 745Li - 2006 BMW 7-Series
  By BoBoBo360 - January 22 - 8:16 am

  Essentially a 745Li with a bigger engine, well after all it is just a refreshening. After trading the 745Li for the 750Li, the major difference is power. Its great handling, but some what indifferent to bonding with the driver. It kinda just does its thing, not much feeling... Anyways, compare to 2005 S500 definately better performance although only 6 speed as oppose to S500s 7 speed its still smooth. S500 has a much more comfortable suspension. It comes with 4 year warranty and the best part free maintenance. The BMW free maintenance covers a lot and will save you a lot too because it covers new brakes, oil changes, minor and major tune ups.

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  STAY AWAY - 2006 BMW 7-Series
  By brainey - January 21 - 11:43 pm

  I bought a 7 series thinking it would be very reliable by price/bmw rep. While the car looks nice and is fun to drive it has had so many problems. I have had fault lights going off monthly, there is a problem with the moonroof whistling - BMW states this is common for their cars, my speakers on the logic 7 crackled for 10 months before they could locate the problem (at least 5 visits to the dealer) and my tires went bald at 16,000 miles and cost $700 to replace. This is not anywhere near the relaibility, function, performance one would expect form an $80,000 car. I had less problems with used cars in the 80s. 15 trips to the service dept in 16 months has been inconvenient to say the least.

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  Ultimate Texas Driving Machine - update - 2000 BMW 7-Series
  By raiderwes - January 21 - 1:57 am

  Ive now had the car for 30K miles and nearly 3 years. I still love it. I bought the car as a certified used unit & during the BMW extended warranty, Ive had a new radiator and water pump as well as two oil leaks. Each time the dealer has promptly repaired the car for a $50 co-pay. New brake pads were my cost ($$$). I replaced the OEM Contintal Contitracs with Kumho Ecstas and am very pleased with the improved mileage & I cant tell any significant difference in handling, but the car is much quieter. I hope to drive this car another 60K miles. The extended warranty expires within a month or so and I may hedge my bets by buying another warranty, based on my experience with the 1993 740

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  Ohhh So Smooth - 2006 BMW 7-Series
  By JDP - January 18 - 12:39 pm

  After 4 Lexus, a few Cadilacs, an Infiniti and even a Mercedes this new BMW 750 LI is the best large car I have ever owned. The comfort, ride, speed and handling is vastly supierior to the other makes. The quality of the product is so good it takes the sting out of the price. BMW actually gives you something for your money its called value. The car is so quiet on the road I want to go places and with the concert hall sound system I could care less about sitting in traffic. The ergos and seats are the best. At the gas station a little kid said, "Nice BMW mister.." Priceless.