New BMW Series 7 - a new bold & beautiful future classic?
With its new 7 Series, I believe BMW has a future classic on its hands. Purists, calm down.
A luxury, high-end vehicle is supposed to be low-key and sophisticated, gliding past on its way to the nearest government building or fancy hotel. But this latest generation of the BMW 7 Series could be as influential (read controversial) as the E65 was back in 2001.
But just as the Chris Bangle-era of BMW design was heavily criticised, so is today’s Jozef Kabaň’s.
The Bavarians have been on a roll in terms of mould-breaking designs. Going against the norm seems to be paying off as nothing keeps you in the limelight like endless forums and think pieces about “angel eyes”.
Let’s start with its interior. For all its tech-y-ness and hyper-conceptuality, the material quality here is impeccable. Every touchpoint is soft and pleasantly textured, conveying a real sense of refinement. In terms of fit and finish, the segment-leading Mercedes-Benz S-Class struggles to compete.
Caress the Swarovski-crystal glass strip that spans the dashboard and door cards, brush the laser-cut speaker covers of the Bowers & Wilkins surround-sound system and feel the undulating metal of the fold-down armrest in the backseats. The cabin of the 7 is a veritable sensory experience. Combine that with cutting-edge technology, and you’ve got the most advanced BMW money can buy.
What sorta tech, you ask? Well, there’s a gargantuan 31.3-inch touchscreen with 8K resolution, which folds down from the roof, giving backseat passengers a theatre experience that rivals IMAX. With an onboard data connection, you can watch Amazon Fire TV, Netflix or your favourite YouTuber.
What else? How about a cellphone on each door? (I say cellphone, but it’s more of a small touchscreen display positioned near the grab handle.) From it, you can control the above-mentioned theatre screen, sunblinds, climate, and, most importantly, the sublime airline-style seats.
Despite its interior comfort, the ride in the 7 is still stiffly sprung. That’s expected as it’s always been considered the sporty alternative. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not uncomfortable, but you definitely feel that extra bump that an A8 would’ve smoothed out. But, drive fast enough and you won’t notice a thing.
This massive sedan is incredibly planted through corners and belies its heftiness. Even the all-electric i7, which tips the scales near three tonnes, keeps its composure when the road gets twisty. Select the Sport drive mode, and the car lurches forward with gusto,
almost like it wants you to stomp on the accelerator. Truly, the different drive modes make a huge difference in this car’s performance and personality.
Finally, let’s talk about its looks, shall we? When it first debuted, there was a collective, audible gasp from motoring journalists worldwide. Whether good or bad, it definitely made a statement. In the flesh – and in the right paint scheme – the 7 is gorgeous. Its distinctive face has eventually won me over, but I’m still having trouble with its rear.
But each to their own. And to each their own derivative. The new 7 Series is available as either a petrol or electric model with a diesel coming later this year. Go for the 740i with
a smooth in-line 6-cylinder that has no trouble getting you up to cruising speed. Opt for the i7 xDrive60, and you’ll get a veritable spaceship that rockets you to 100km/h in 4.7 seconds. Both come with a suite of standard kit, but as is the case with BMW, the stuff you’ll want are pricey optional extras.
In a sea of demure competitors, the new “7er” has the potential to be a future classic. And going by public reactions, BMW has created a luxury sedan that’ll draw attention for years to come. How refreshing!
BMW 7 Series - The numbers
Engine 740i: 3.0-l. Inline 6-cylinder, paired with an 8-speed ZF auto. i7 xDrive60: two electric motors, 101.7kWh lithium-ion battery
Power 740i: 280kW. i7: 400kW. 0-100: 740i: 55s. i7: 4.7s.
Price 740i from R2 160 000 and i7 from R2 825 000
BMW.CO.ZA
