All-new 7 Series wears sharp suit

What is it?

You're looking at the fifth generation of BMW's range-topping 7 Series. Admittedly, the car's proportions are such that it could be perceived to be a smaller car in photographs, especially viewed from the front, where the new BMW face shares much with the recently facelifted 3 Series. However, BMW's larger new kidney grille debuts on this car, taking inspiration from the CS concept and adding an extra dose of aggression.

Although not as radical a design as the previous generation 7 Series, the new car is arguably much better looking, with real elegance to its lines, yet a sporting tautness to its lines too. Despite the fourth generation's 'compromised' appearance, it was the best-selling 7 Series model to date and BMW reckons this new car will do even better.

Three engines are available initially. The entry-level 740i model is powered by BMW's excellent twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six, while the 750i features a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 instead of its predecessor's V12 powerplant. By far the biggest seller in Europe will be the 730d, with the latest version of BMW's 3.0-litre turbodiesel straight-six under the sculpted bonnet - the 730d is both faster and yet significantly more frugal than the previous version.

Is it any good?

Impressively so. We'll let you make up your own mind about the new car's looks (we love it), but nobody can deny that the new interior is rather special and though the new 7 is crammed with innovative technology, the cockpit is actually simpler than its predecessor's - yet more interesting, with good material selection and tactility. Though the long wheelbase model is available from the off - boasting 140mm extra rear legroom - the best seat is undeniably behind the steering wheel. Technophobes may not like the myriad switches and driving aid buttons, but realistically, it is not necessary to understand what every button does to drive the 7 Series.

However, reading the manual (itself fully integrated in the much-improved iDrive system) could enhance your enjoyment of the new 7, as there is a lot to get to grips with. The Driving Dynamic Control button to the side of the gear lever is perhaps the most important. This alters the character of the car through four different modes of operation: Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport +. There's a marked difference between the modes too, transforming the 7 from cosseting luxury car to sports saloon in varying degrees. It controls a wide variety of parameters such as damping, steering assistance, gearchange strategy and throttle calibration. Additionally, the level of electronic assistance in terms of stability and traction may be altered by the driver.

All that lends some weight to BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' mantra, though as agile as the 7 Series is, it's still a large, heavy car. It's at its best on fast sweeping roads and the motorway, where it is crushingly effective at covering large distances at high speeds. On a back road, body control is enhanced by choosing one of the Sport modes and the chassis is eminently competent, but drivers shouldn't expect as much interaction as they'll find in BMW's smaller cars. The majority of 7 Series buyers will revel in the comfort offered up by the Normal mode and the significant pace on offer from any of the three engines.

Should I call the bank manager?

If you're on good terms with your local branch, it'd be a good idea, though have a long think about what you want from your 7 Series before you give the bank a figure to borrow. As utterly impressive as the petrol models in the range are, we really can't recommend them above the 730d. Sure, they're quicker and sound exciting when pushed, but the turbodiesel model is no slouch and actually sounds pretty good itself - though it's just quiet most of the time. The upshot is that the diesel 7 is the cheapest in the range and with low CO₂ and significantly better fuel consumption it should reward its buyers with relatively low running costs. Your bank manager will be happy to hear that too no doubt.

Summary

First impressions suggest that BMW has another winner on its hands. Not only is the new 7 Series now one of the best-looking luxury cars on the market, it features some unique and useful new technology and a line-up that should keep customers around the world happy. Economy-conscious buyers will also be delighted to realise that the cheapest model in the range is possibly the best.

Shane O' Donoghue