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The new BMW 7 Series

BMW’s 7 Series has not always enjoyed a charmed life – in fact, it aroused considerable rage in some quarters when the latest version was introduced in 2002. It looks, particularly its ungainly boot, came in for excessive criticism but which ultimately did nothing to dent sales as this model became BMW’s most successful of all with 160,000 being sold worldwide, including 57,899 in 2003 alone. With the new version, though, that is in the process of being introduced to Europe, some of the more contentious issues have been addressed.

The new BMW 7-Series

Visually, the car looks more sporting and dynamic from the front following some newly introduced ridges on the bonnet that BMW calls the “powerdrome” that run from the base of the A-pillars to the higher and wider kidney grille at the front. The front treatment is complemented by the revised headlights, now featuring xenon technology, that are angled slightly inwardly.

From the side, the increased rake of the windscreen, which is 20 mm higher relative to the bonnet, gives the car a sleeker look while the add-on look of the boot has been beautifully integrated into the body so that it looks as one despite the 3 mm increase in the boot lid’s height.

However, it from the rear where the biggest differences are seen. By increasing the rear track by 14 mm, which is emphasised by the bumper’s greater wrap-around effect on the wheel arches, the 7 Series is given an even more powerful look. Further enhancements include a long chrome trim bar above the number plate recess that reaches the revised tail light treatment.

For all its looks, though, the heart of any BMW is the engines. Five of the 7 Series’ six engines are either new or completely updated, only the top-of-the-range V12 760i/Li remaining unchanged. The 750i/Li and 740i/Li replace the 745i/Li and 735i/Li respectively and the 745d replaces the 740d. The 730d has been fully revised and the 730i/Li now features a composite magnesium/aluminium crankcase carried over from the BMW 630i. Both the 745d and 730d feature third generation common-rail technology complete with piezo-injection and have a particle filter fitted as standard. The use of an all-aluminium crankcase has reduced their weight by 30 kg on the 745d and 25 kg on the 730d. All the petrol engines feature BMW’s Valvetronic technology.

The Dynamic Drive suspension control system has been combined within the adaptive drive function with BMW’s EDC-C continuously adjustable damper control system on the new model for both improved ride comfort and handling and a reduction of body sway in bends.

Altogether, the revised looks, the new engines and revised suspension control system, together with a new-look and feel iDrive system for controlling the various features on the car, ensure that the new 7 Series is going to capitalise on the success that created by the outgoing model.