2024 BMW 7 Series Review: Sinfully Sublime
Not many cars can claim to go toe to toe with the grand Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but the BMW 7 Series is up for the challenge. After entering its seventh generation last year, it is in a stronger position than ever before to steal the crown. It is presented in a number of configurations, including a twin-turbo V8 model with 536 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque or a hybrid with 483 hp and 479 lb-ft. And for those who want their luxury sedan to be all-electric, there's the new BMW i7 to consider. Whereas some rivals like the Audi A8 no longer offer a hybridized version, there are some newer options in the segment, too, such as the Genesis G90. However, the 7 Series sits near the top of the class for the flawless way it combines luxury with high performance, especially with its updated infotainment system and optional rear entertainment suite. But is it enough to unseat the S-Class?
What's the Price of the 2024 BMW 7 Series?
With an MSRP of $96,400, the BMW 7 Series in 740i spec is not a cheap entry-level model, but it's still cheaper than an S-Class. The new 740i xDrive adds $3,000 to the bill. But, if you want the very best executive sedan from BMW, you need to be willing to spend six figures since the 760i xDrive will cost you $121,300. When you're already paying this much, the $995 destination charge feels like pocket change. The hybrid 750e xDrive costs at least $107,000 to start.
2024 BMW 7 Series Handling and Driving Impressions
The base 740i is an impressive car, with loads of power when you need it and an available all-wheel drivetrain for extra grip and confidence to tackle less-than-ideal roads. However, it is the more stately sedan of the various models, relying on its comfortable suspension to smooth out any bumps and deliver a pleasurable ride. It can have some fun, that's for sure, but its poise and relaxed demeanor are the big selling points. But if a truly thrilling driving experience is what you're after, the 760i is the way to go. The twin-turbo V8 thrums with vigor and barely restrained lust for speed. It has been adapted from higher-performing M cars and somewhat tamed for the regular 2024 7 Series, but there is still loads of power available. It can accelerate to 60 mph in the blink of an eye, and the steering provides enough heft and feedback to ensure you feel involved in the experience. It is definitely tuned toward ease of driving, though, rather than hurling the large sedan around corners or burning rubber at the track. There is no denying that this is a luxury sedan, as ride comfort is still prioritized, and you'll feel even more at home in the spacious back seat, especially if you opt for one of the many interior upgrades that make this proposition even more appealing. Heck, you can even experience a semi-chauffered drive from the front seats thanks to some of the available advanced semi-autonomous driving tech.
Verdict: Is The 2024 BMW 7 Series A Good car?
With its chunky grille and in-your-face styling, the 2024 BMW 7 Series may not be winning any beauty pageants, but there is no denying the luxury found inside the cabin, nor the top-notch performance under the hood. It's a car that can easily claim to do just about everything perfectly, being just as fun to drive as it is to be driven in. The interior is spacious, and the second row can be upgraded with an entertainment system that includes touchscreen controls. A number of advanced driver aids reinforce the idea that this is an executive sedan meant to be enjoyed with a relaxed hand, rather than a firm grip on the wheel for spirited antics. You can even equip it with a semi-autonomous driving system that engages with the adaptive cruise control and various cameras to get you from points A to B with zero fuzz and little to no muss. But even without these hands-off systems, the 7 Series is a dream car that easily matches the best we have come to expect from the likes of Mercedes, Audi, and Volvo.
What 2024 BMW 7 Series Model Should I Buy?
A review of the 2024 BMW 7 Series lineup highlights three gas-only derivatives and one hybrid; we review the BMW i7 separately. But, when it comes to the ICE model, the 760i is simply impossible to ignore with that boisterous V8 engine and grippy all-wheel drivetrain. It's very expensive, though, but that also means that adding the available extras won't impact the bill as much. Optioning on the Rear Executive Lounge Seating Package and 40-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system will cost a little over $10k combined.