‘7TH HEAVEN?’

Added 13^th September, 2019

By Jonathan Crouch

Whether you prioritise clever gadgetry, hi-tech engineering or sharp running costs in your luxury saloon, this G11/G12 7 Series operates from an agenda that will certainly impress. Conservatively styled it may be: conservative in outlook it certainly isn't. In summary, though it might not be the obvious choice in the full-sized luxury segment if you're looking for a model made in the 2015-2018 period, this MK6 7 Series is an important contender for potential buyers to consider. Certainly in sixth generation form, it's a different proposition when it comes to quality and technology, good to drive - and even better to be driven in. To ignore it would be to miss out on quite a treat. And quite a car.

‘ACTIVE LUXURY’

Added 23^rd October, 2015 , updated 22^nd October, 2015

By Car & Driving

BMW of course didn't really build this Active Hybrid7 model for European buyers, people more likely to be swayed by the merits of diesel power. But that doesn't mean such a customer couldn't find this a rewarding choice as a used car. Being able to sprint to sixty two mph in under 6s in a super luxury saloon capable of over 40mpg has a strong appeal. As does being able to cruise around town on silent electric-only power. Ultimately though, you're going to be buying this car if you really must have the most driver-orientated luxury hybrid saloon from the 2012 to 2015 era. Or even more simply, the most technically advanced and arguably most desirable 7 series that BMW made in that time. If that's the case, you'll be an unusual customer of course. But if you're one of those people, then you probably didn't get to where you are in life by taking the usual path. This car's different. If you are too, then you may just like it very much indeed.

‘SEVENTH HEAVEN?’

Added 2^nd October, 2015

By Car & Driving

Whether you prioritise clever gadgetry, hi-tech engineering or sharp running costs in your luxury saloon, this improved MK5 model BMW 7 Series operates from an agenda that will certainly impress. Conservatively styled it may be: conservative in outlook it certainly isn't. But then it couldn't afford to be in the face of rivals as good as the Mercedes S-Class, the Audi A8, the Jaguar XJ and the Lexus LS. At first glance, any one of these four might seem to be a more obvious luxury segment used car choice than this Seven. But to ignore this BMW and overlook its Rolls Royce-inspired driving experience would be to miss out on quite a treat. And quite a car.

‘CLASS OF THE FIELD’

Added 29^th June, 2012

By Andy Enright

The F01 generation 7 Series was a car that spoke of BMW getting its mojo back with its flagship saloon. Sleeker and with a well-judged ride/handling compromise and some great engines, it was a car that would have been a surefire winner had it been a little prettier. As a used buy, it's virtually beyond reproach, but with early cars becoming more affordable, it's worth making a sober appraisal of whether you can afford to maintain what might have been a £70,000 new car not so long ago. Still, park one next to a new Mondeo with a similar sticker price and it would be extremely hard to resist.

‘KAPITAN OF INDUSTRY ’

Added 5^th November, 2009

By Andy Enright

No doubt you'll have your opinions on the 7 Series but whether or not you're a fan of the styling be in no doubt that there's a great car underneath the controversial sheet metal. The 730d looks to be the best buy of the bunch, offering competitive fuel consumption and emissions showings. Perhaps the last word should go to Chris Bangle. "People just haven't had a chance to learn yet. We haven't been open enough, explained [the design] as well as we should." Arrogance or genius? You decide.

‘THE GLORIOUS SEVENTH’

Added 13^th October, 2006

By Andy Enright

Ever wondered why so many used car dealers drive a 7 Series? It's because they know a good buy when they see one. The Seven has suffered at the hands of the Mercedes S class, Audi A8 and Lexus LS400/430 models and as such makes excellent value as a used proposition. Though the slightly raffish image may put some off, don't be fooled into thinking the big BMW is yesterday's news. Understated it may be, underdeveloped, never. If you can afford it the 4.4-litre 740i is all the car you'll ever need, but the star of the range remains the relatively rare 728i.

Independent Reviews of BMW 7 Series New and Used Cars

‘7TH HEAVEN?’

‘SEVENTH HEAVEN?’

‘SEVENTH HEAVEN?’

‘ACTIVE LUXURY’

‘SEVENTH HEAVEN?’

‘CLASS OF THE FIELD’

‘KAPITAN OF INDUSTRY ’

‘THE GLORIOUS SEVENTH’

‘SMART & SHARP’

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