The pundits may have criticised the 7-series launched in 2001 for its styling and complex iDrive control system but maker BMW is having the last laugh – the current shape is the most successful to date. Worldwide sales of nearly 160,000 since launch are up 8% on the previous model at the same point in its life cycle and now there’s an update for 2005.
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The new models been out for a few months in Europe but right-hand drive versions are now available with the key UK market leading the way as usual. Here sales are around 2,000 a year for about 20% of the large luxury sedan segment – key rivals are the home-grown Jaguar XJ (40% of the UK market) and Mercedes S-class (25%).
At first glance, one might think simply “new tail lights” but there have been some sheet metal changes and the big Seven has lost its distinctive, if controversial ‘eyelids’ over the headlights. There are also other detail styling changes, a revised model line-up, tweaked suspension and more standard equipment.
Accounting for nearly 60% of UK sales, the 730d has been the most popular engine for buyers of the 7 Series in the UK and the launch this autumn of a long-wheelbase version (due to demand from executive chauffeur services), should see this motor account for an even higher proportion.
The straight six has been completely redesigned with a new aluminium crankcase and now weighs 20kgs less. The induction process has also been refined with the fuel/air mix now being fed to the combustion chamber via piezo injectors, while a new generation turbocharger has also been fitted.
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By GlobalDataPower output is up 6% to 231bhp at 4,000rpm and torque is also up at 520Nm at 2,000rpm. The new diesel is EU4 emissions-compliant due to a standard diesel particulate filter, which gives cars owned by business people tax advantages in the UK market.
Right hand drive markets still aren’t offered a diesel V8 – the 745d being introduced in continental Europe won’t be offered here, nor will the three-litre twin-turbo six launched recently in the 535d appear in the current generation 7 series.
Petrol-powered 7s start with the 730i, the latest model to get what is claimed to be the world’s lightest volume production six-cylinder petrol engine.
The 740i, with a new four-litre V8 engine, replaces the 735i, while the 750i, with 4.8-litre engine, replaces the 745i. Globally, this version is expected to account for the bulk of 7-series sales.
The 760i remains the V12-engined flagship of the line and all retain a six-speed automatic gearbox with Steptronic ‘manual’ as standard.
Changes to the suspension include a 14mm increase in rear track. Braking systems on the 740i and 750i have both been upgraded. The 730i now has 324mm diameter discs at the front and 324mm at the rear, while the 740i and 750i now both come with 370mm discs at the front and 348mm at the rear. The 760i is equipped with 374mm diameter discs at the front and 370mm discs at the rear while the 730d is fitted with 348mm discs at the front and 345mm ones at the rear.
Apart from obviously different rear lights, styling changes take some spotting. At the front, the headlight cluster has been reshaped and the familiar ‘kidney grille’ has been widened – partly for aesthetic reasons, but also to aid engine cooling. The front bumper has been re-profiled while the front spoiler and lower air intakes are revised for increased aerodynamic efficiency. The bonnet opening is slightly larger and now features a subtle ‘power bulge’.
Three new styles of optional alloy wheels have also been added to the range and the rear bumper wraparound is slightly narrower.
The reworked rear light clusters no longer feature a continuous red strip connected to both sides – this has been replaced by a wrap-around chrome strip mirrored by a crease in the bumper. Finally, for increased aerodynamic efficiency the rear bumper now has a venturi to improve exiting airflow under the vehicle and also generate greater downforce for improved high-speed stability.
Inside, again the initial impression is ‘no change’. But the steering wheel has been reshaped and several control knobs gain a chrome surround and the iDrive controller now has a leather insert. Operation of the system itself is also simplified but it is still not intuitive enough.
Audio systems are now MP3-compliant and the optional TV tuner can receive digital transmissions.
Specification upgrades for all models are bi-xenon headlights with washer jets; V8 models gain heated front seats, glass sunroof and front lumbar support.
Graeme Roberts
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