BMW 7-Series (2005-2008) Review

Comfort and Equipment

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The 750i engine can get a little loud when pushed hard, but it's a pleasing V8 sound rather than an intrusive roar. The sports suspension (lowered by 20mm at the front and 10mm at the rear) and 19-inch wheels give a rather hard ride, but then that goes with the territory - and even so, this Seven is wonderfully comfortable, as well as being less prone to feeling 'floaty' than its predecessor. Its multiway-adjustable seats are supportive, body roll and sway is well-suppressed, especially in cars with the adaptive ride package (self-levelling suspension, electronic damper control and dynamic drive) and noise levels are generally low. The rear cabin area is roomy even in the standard model, and to full limousine standards in the Li long-wheelbase versions, and the high-quality cabin is minimalist and uncluttered without being stark and unwelcoming. Standard equipment on UK cars will include 17-inch alloys, full electrical adjustment for seats and steering column, cruise control, tasteful leather upholstery, parking sensors and rain-sensing wipers, plus a high-quality CD player - a decent tally by any standards. SE models will add 18-inch alloys, the BMW Professional audio and sat nav system and a dual-band GSM phone, and Sport models 19-inch wheels, sports seats, lowered sports suspension, matt wood trim (also reasonably tasteful) and a three-spoke steering wheel. LWB models have self-levelling rear suspension and rear sunblinds, and further options include the Adaptive Ride Package, rear seat entertainment package (TV, six-CD autochanger, headphone connections, centrally-mounted rear monitor and iDrive controller) and the two-seat rear layout.