Devotees of luxury motoring, European style, have been waiting eagerly for the arrival of the sixth generation of BMW’s full-size flagship sedan. Fully redesigned for 2016, the latest 7 Series relies on a new Carbon Core passenger cell structure and launches new tech features, including the world’s first Gesture Control.
Two versions are offered: the 740i with an inline six-cylinder engine that generates 320 horsepower, and the majestic 750i, which contains a 445-horsepower V8. Though the 740i is front-drive, the 750i can be fitted with all-wheel drive. Previous 7 Series sedans came in two sizes, but the 2016 is long-wheelbase (126.4 inches) only.
What's new for 2016
The 2016 BMW 750i and its cousin, the V6-powered 740i, are all-new.
Choosing Your BMW 750i
BMW’s revised 4.4-liter TwinPower V8, with twin turbos mounted in between the cylinder banks, develops 445 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque, available as low as 1800 rpm. An eight-speed automatic transmission sends that energy to rear wheels or, on the 750i xDrive model, to all four wheels.
New Gesture Control recognizes certain hand movements, which can control various elements of the infotainment system. The “active” kidney grille includes an Air Breather. When additional cooling is needed, grille bars and flaps open automatically in five stages. Wireless charging is standard, along with an in-car wi-fi hotspot. A new iDrive 5.0 system uses touchscreen technology.
BMW brands the 7 Series a “benchmark” in lightweight design, as well as in “intuitive operation.” Abundant carbon-fiber reinforced plastic is used in the Carbon Core passenger cell structure. Console controls are framed by wood or aluminum surfaces. Trim strips are made individually for each car. BMW claims the 750i has the largest head-up display in the industry.
With an MSRP of $97,400 (plus $950 destination charge), the 750i has all the features of the six-cylinder 740i, as well as a power rear sunshade, adaptive full LED lights, a head-up display, and 19-inch double-spoke wheels (20-inch wheels optional).
Standard equipment also includes an air suspension, rearview camera, keyless entry, leather upholstery, soft-close automatic doors, panoramic Sky Lounge LED roof, power front seats with driver’s memory and lumbar support, heated front seats, four-zone automatic climate control, and a navigation system. Park Distance Control, an in-dash CD player, satellite radio, Harman Kardon surround-sound system, wireless charging and a wi-fi hotspot also are standard.
Introduction of the all-new 7 Series also serves as the premiere of Active Comfort Drive with Road Preview. Offered as a package in conjunction with active steering, this optional active-chassis control system works with the air suspension and Dynamic Damper Control to improve driving comfort. Ride Preview gives advance information for regulating the chassis systems.
Only the 750i can be fitted with a Rear Executive Lounge Seating Package, which includes a power reclining seat and footrest, rear console, rear-seat entertainment, and Executive Lounge seating.
- The optional M Sport package features an M aerodynamic kit with model-specific front/rear aprons and side skirts, plus 19-or 20-inch M light-alloy wheels, an M driver's footrest, and accents in either light or dark chrome.
- An Autobahn Package includes active steering and Active Comfort Drive with Road Preview.
- A Driver Assistance Plus group includes an Active Driving Assistance, surround-view system with 3-D view, and Parking Assistant.
- The Executive Package includes power side-window shades, multi-countour seats, ventilated front seats, a head-up display, and Nappa leather instrument panel covering.
- The Luxury Rear Seating Package adds heated and ventilated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, rear-seat massaging, and a seven-inch Touch Command tablet.
Is the top-end 750i really worth $16,100 more than a six-cylinder 740i? Perhaps not, though adding a few option groups to the 740i narrows the difference between the two models. For well-off fans of BMW’s well-deserved reputation for sport/luxury, though, a 750i could be just the ticket to years of driving enjoyment. Sales of both models begin in fall 2015.