In recent years, BMW’s 7-series suffered a fair amount of derision for the styling of its trunk lid and the confoundingly complicated iDrive control system. With the redesigned 2009, both items have been fixed. All-wheel drive will be offered for 2010.
The last few months have hardly been an ideal climate for the introduction of a new luxury sedan, but life goes on for car companies and the new 7-series made its debut at the Los Angeles auto show last fall.
Prices begin at $81,125 for the 750i and $85,025 for the long-wheelbase 750Li. The range-topping 760i will have a twin-turbo, 6.0-liter V-12 with 544 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The test car, from BMW’s press fleet, had a sticker price of $96,970. Only the rich need apply.
Styling of the fifth-generation 7-series has been toned down, and while the look won’t knock you out, it won’t push you away, either. Subtlety is the word, and that’s not all bad considering that luxury sedans are targeted at older buyers who generally don’t want to flaunt their wealth.
The 750i has an all-new 4.4-liter, twin-turbo V-8 that lays down its power as smoothly as a politician speaks at election time. The automatic transmission is a six-speed.
This engine cranks out 400 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque over a broad rpm range. It is so quiet and smooth that it feels like an electric motor. Toeing the throttle results in a soft rush of acceleration that is actually quite spirited if you keep your foot down. BMW says the car can hit 60 miles per hour in 5.1 seconds. The fuel mileage ratings are 15 miles per gallon in the city and 22 on the highway.
The cabin of the 750i is as warm and luxurious as a five-star hotel. The seats are deep and supportive. The instrument panel, console and door panels have large pieces of wood trim. The steering wheel has fingertip controls, and iDrive has been simplified to the point that it is now manageable. Many of the audio and climate controls can now be operated directly with individual knobs.
BMW prides itself on producing cars that have excellent road manners, and the 750i is no exception. While you won’t mistake its handling for that of a sports sedan, it always feels unruffled and well-connected to the road. BMW credits the smooth ride and crisp handling to a completely new self-leveling air suspension system.
The driving dynamics system has four settings that determine shock-absorber firmness, transmission shift characteristics, engine-throttle response and power-steering assist.
Other options include lane departure warning, blind-spot detection, night vision and active cruise control with stop-and-go capability.
Rear-seat passengers have plenty of legroom in the 750i. The wheelbase of the 750Li is five inches longer and that adds even more rear legroom.
Price
The test car’s base price was $81,125. A long list of options included rear-view and side-view cameras, luxury seating that included a heated steering wheel and an active seat for the driver, premium sound system, rear-seat entertainment package, night vision, head-up display, satellite radio and HD radio. The 750i has a $1,000 gas-guzzler tax. The sticker price was $96,970.
Warranty
Four years or 50,000 miles, with full maintenance provided free during that time period.
2009 BMW 750i
Engine: 4.4-liter, 400-hp V-8
Transmission:
Six-speed automatic
Rear-wheel drive
Wheelbase: 120.9 inches
Curb weight: 4,564 lbs.
Base price: $81,125
As driven: $96,970
MPG rating: 15 city, 22 hwy.
Tom Strongman’s e-mail address is tom@tomstrongman.com.
