2002-2008 BMW 7-Series: Road Test

Acceleration with the V8 is robust, though traction control intrudes to take some steam out of starting-stopping sprints. Some examples tested when new also suffered stuttering movement from a stop or walking pace. All told, though, you can expect effortless high-speed cruising. BMW quoted 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.9 seconds for the V8 model and 5.4 seconds for the 760Li. Fuel economy is about as expected. A test 745i averaged 17.0 mpg, helped by a long highway trip. Premium fuel is required. Any 7-Series is a model of smooth discipline on the road, less-isolated than a Lexus LS 430 or Mercedes-Benz S-Class on flawed pavement, but never uncomfortable. Low-profile 19-inch tires slap into sharp bumps, but detract only slightly. Steering/handling ranks as the sportiest among premium luxury sedans. A 7-Series is never ponderous, and Active Roll Stabilization uncannily quells most body lean. With 19-inch tires, steering feels even more alert, turn-in crisper, and grip tenacious. Wind is a mere murmur on the highway. The V8 engine hits a rich, strident note at full throttle, but is hardly noticed otherwise. Instruments/controls are another story. The unfamiliar design of important controls compels reorientation to a different world of driving. The gearshift, for example, is a small electric flipper, with spring-back movements and push-pull activation that's not self-evident. Anything more than the simplest climate and audio adjustments forces interaction with iDrive. Accessing a daunting range of communication, navigation, and entertainment tools; it even adjusts suspension firmness and deactivates the antiskid control. Sadly, learning its ways and coordinating its joystick movement while driving takes hours of practice and diverts attention from the road. Controls are easy to reach, at least, though the iDrive screen can wash out in sunlight, and the power-seat cluster is awkwardly mounted on the console sidewall. Quality materials and generous use of wood gives each 7-Series interior a sophisticated, modern-furniture ambience. Firm, roomy front seats promise fine contour and support, though tall drivers may wish for more seat travel. And only V8 models with a "Comfort" or "Luxury" seat option have independent adjustment of side bolsters and headrest height. Front headrests block some over-the-shoulder vision. Stepping into the rear means entering the lap of luxury, especially for two adults. Back doors could open wider for easier foot clearance, though. Four golf bags fit transversely into the large, luxuriously finished trunk. The optional power lid (if installed) opens and closes with the push of a button. Cabin storage is good.

Value for the Money
Smooth, powerful, and athletic, the 7-Series is virtually devoid of dynamic flaws. Spacious and exceeding comfortable, it delivers first-cabin travel by any standard. How you cope with iDrive and the other new-think controls depends on how comfortable you are with cutting-edge technology. Be sure to try the system carefully before considering a 7-Series sedan.