2019 BMW 7 Series Review

The 7 Series sits at the top of BMW's luxury sedan range. But it occupies a class shared with some of the most advanced rivals out there like the Mercedes S-Class, Jaguar XJ, Audi A8, and the Lexus LS. The current model has been in production since 2016 and is due for a facelift soon. It comes in three standard models; the 740i has a 320 horsepower, 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, the 750i has a 445 hp turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, and finally, the M760i has an incredible 601 horsepower 6.6-liter V12. Both the 740i and 750i are available with either rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive, while the M760i is only available in all-wheel drive. They all come with an eight-speed automatic transmission. In a segment focusing on comfort, BMW promises to bring high levels of tech and enticing driving dynamics to the table, but does the latest iteration of the 7 Series succeed?

What's the Price of the 2019 BMW 7 Series?

The entry-level 740i starts at an MSRP of $83,650 while the 750i starts at $96,950. The all-wheel-drive models come at an added cost of $3,000. The range-topping M760i comes in at a price of $156,700. These prices exclude registration, licensing, and taxes, as well as the destination fee of $995.

Handling and Driving Impressions

Thanks to modern technology and engineering techniques the 7 Series handles with the deftness of a much lighter car. The air suspension does a terrific job of keeping the car in check, even at high speeds and on bendy roads. Comfort mode balances power and efficiency to make the 7 Series a pleasant cruiser, while Sport mode removes the shackles and unleashes the full performance potential. In either mode, the 7 series never loses its composure and the brakes do a brilliant job of reeling in the car's immense weight.

Like most other cars in its class, the 7 Series makes the driver feel special, locked in a cocoon of wood and leather together with the latest tech gizmos. Unlike its fierce rival the S-class, the 7 Series tips the scale towards driver dynamics and performance rather than all-out luxury.

There are few better ways to enjoy a long drive than locked away in one of the most luxurious and capable driving machines out there, especially if it's the M760i.

Verdict: Is the 2019 BMW 7 Series A Good car?

The BMW 7 Series is a car that many people wish to own, but few can afford. It's one of the best sedans that money can buy and is a showcase for BMW's technical prowess and status as one of the best luxury car makers out there.

In every trim, the performance is excellent and is complemented by the brilliant ride and handling dynamics. Passengers sit in the utmost luxury and shielded away from the world in what feels like a mobile lounge complete with some of the most comfortable seats found in any car. With features like the tablet to control the car's infotainment functions, the ability to park remotely using the keyfob, and being able to choose the scent of the vehicle, the 7 Series sits on the forefront of what is possible in this day and age.

When it comes to the best balance of luxury, performance, and technology there are few better cars than the BMW 7 Series.

What BMW 7 Series Model Should I Buy?

There's no way to go wrong with any of the 7 Series models. Even the entry-level 740i has great performance, as well as more features than most cars out there. It also has a comfortable ride, as well as a quality interior which most cars can't match. The 750i takes the performance up a notch with its V8 engine and incredible sound. While both of the lower models are brilliant in their own right, the pick of the bunch has to be the M760i with its jaw-dropping 601 hp turbocharged 6.6-liter V12 engine. It might be over $50,000 more expensive than the 750i, but it delivers unmatched performance not to mention status of a V12 super-sedan.

2019 BMW 7 Series Comparisons

2019 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan

The S-Class is the perpetual nemesis of the 7 Series, with the two battling for the crown of most technologically advanced sedan for many years now. They both take a different approach with the S-Class focusing more on being as luxurious as possible while being at the forefront of new technology. The 7 Series on the other hand also wants to be luxurious, but has more of an emphasis on driver dynamics and being a bit more sporty.

When it comes to the current generation, the Mercedes has a more luxurious interior and is loaded with features including both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard. Even in its entry-level S450, it has 362 hp, which is more than the 340 hp from the 740i.

The range-topping M760i is a steal at $156,700 compared to the equivalent S65 at a whopping $232,550, but those wanting "the best or nothing" will happily pay the premium.

2019 BMW 7 Series vs Jaguar XJ

The Jaguar XJ is a bit of a dark horse alternative to the 7 Series and while a bit dated, still has sexy lines and a bold and elegant look. The Jaguar may not be the most technologically advanced car and has limited space compared to the 7 Series, but it has charm to spare and a classy interior that comes across a little more special than the 7's - which has more than just a subtle hint of 3 series about it. Unlike other cars in this class which focus more on luxury, the Jaguar has fabulous ride and handling, making it the driver's pick.

The entry-level XJL Portfolio makes 340 horsepower and starts at $84,500 compared to the 320 horsepower 740i at $83,650. At the top end, the Jaguar has no V12 engines in its lineup and has to make do with the 575 hp XJR575, with a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 and a starting price of $122,400. The 7 series, on the other hand, has the M760i with its 601 horsepower 6.6-liter V12, but a much higher price of $156,700.

Between the two, the Jaguar has style and some appeal, but the 7 Series is a far better all-round performer and is the better of the two.