The 2017 BMW 7 Series: A Pinnacle of Luxury and Innovation
The 2017 BMW 7 Series represents BMW's flagship sedan, a testament to their commitment to blending ultimate luxury with cutting-edge technology and dynamic driving performance. This generation, codenamed G11/G12, marked a significant departure from its predecessors, introducing a revolutionary platform and a suite of innovative features designed to redefine the premium executive car segment.
Highlights
The 2017 7 Series stands out for its impressive array of features and sophisticated engineering.
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Powertrain Excellence:
- 740i: Powered by a potent 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, delivering a smooth and robust 320 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. This engine offers an excellent balance of performance and efficiency for daily driving and spirited excursions.
- 750i xDrive: Equipped with a formidable 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing a substantial 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. This option provides exhilarating acceleration and effortless power delivery, especially with the standard xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
- 740e xDrive iPerformance: A plug-in hybrid variant, combining a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor. This powertrain delivers a combined output of 322 horsepower and offers the ability to travel on electric power alone for short distances, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers seeking efficiency without compromising luxury.
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Advanced Safety Features:
- Active Driving Assistant: This suite of driver-assistance systems includes Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation, which uses sensors to detect potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply the brakes to avoid or mitigate an impact.
- Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane through subtle steering wheel vibrations or visual cues.
- Active Blind Spot Detection: Monitors the blind spots on either side of the vehicle and provides visual and audible warnings if a vehicle is detected in those areas when the turn signal is activated.
- Parking Assistant: This system can help the driver find suitable parking spaces and then autonomously steer the vehicle into parallel or perpendicular parking spots, easing the often stressful task of parking.
- Surround View Camera: Offers a 360-degree view around the vehicle, aiding in low-speed maneuvers and parking by providing a bird's-eye perspective.
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Trim Summary:
- 740i: The entry point into the 7 Series lineage, offering a luxurious and well-equipped experience with the potent inline-six engine. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with xDrive all-wheel drive available as an option.
- 750i xDrive: Positioned as the performance-oriented model, this trim comes standard with the powerful V8 engine and xDrive all-wheel drive, providing confident handling and rapid acceleration.
- 740e xDrive iPerformance: The eco-conscious choice, this plug-in hybrid variant offers a compelling blend of electric and gasoline power, along with the security of xDrive.
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Notable Aspects:
- Carbon Core Body: The 2017 7 Series was a pioneer in its segment for extensively utilizing carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) in its construction. This lightweight yet strong material contributes to improved rigidity, enhanced handling, reduced weight, and ultimately, better fuel efficiency.
- Gesture Control: A revolutionary feature that allows drivers to control infotainment functions, such as adjusting the volume or answering calls, through hand gestures recognized by a sensor in the center console.
- Sky Lounge Panorama Glass Sunroof: On select models, this impressive sunroof features integrated LED lights that can be programmed to create a starry night sky effect, adding an unparalleled ambiance to the cabin.
- Executive Lounge Seating: For those prioritizing rear-seat comfort, this optional package transforms the rear of the cabin into a first-class travel experience, offering reclining seats, footrests, and sophisticated climate control.
- Remote Control Parking: A groundbreaking feature that allows the driver to park or unpark the vehicle from outside the car using a key fob, particularly useful in tight parking spaces.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 BMW 7 Series is an experience characterized by refined comfort, advanced technology, and a premium feel.
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Ownership Experience: The 7 Series delivers an exceptionally smooth and quiet ride, insulating occupants from road noise and imperfections. The cabin is a sanctuary of luxury, featuring high-quality materials, ergonomic design, and a plethora of amenities. The infotainment system, while feature-rich, can have a learning curve due to its extensive capabilities. The driving dynamics remain impressive for a vehicle of its size, offering a planted and composed feel on the road, especially with the adaptive suspension.
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Maintenance: As a flagship luxury sedan, the 7 Series requires diligent maintenance to ensure its continued performance and longevity. Regular servicing, including oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks, is crucial. Due to the advanced nature of its systems, specialized knowledge and tools are often required for repairs. Expect maintenance costs to be higher than for a mainstream vehicle. It's highly recommended to follow BMW's recommended service schedule meticulously.
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Insurance: Due to its high cost of ownership, advanced technology, and performance capabilities, insurance premiums for the 2017 BMW 7 Series are typically higher than for more common vehicles. Factors such as the engine size, safety features, and the driver's record will influence the exact cost. Comprehensive coverage is highly advisable to protect this significant investment.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 7 Series is an exceptional vehicle, there are a few points potential buyers should be aware of.
- Complexity of Technology: The sheer volume of technology and the intricate nature of its integration can sometimes lead to a steeper learning curve for users. While innovative, some features might feel less intuitive than simpler systems.
- Maintenance Costs: As mentioned, the specialized nature of BMW's luxury sedans means that maintenance and repair costs can be significantly higher than for less premium or technologically advanced vehicles. Sourcing genuine BMW parts and finding qualified technicians can also contribute to this.
- Long-Term Reliability (Specific Components): While BMW generally produces reliable vehicles, some complex electronic systems or less common components within the 7 Series might present potential reliability concerns over the long term, particularly as the vehicle ages. Researching specific model year common issues is always a good practice.
- Rear-Seat Comfort vs. Driver Engagement: While the optional Executive Lounge seating is unparalleled for rear passengers, some might find that the focus on ultimate comfort for the rear can slightly dampen the traditional sporty feel that BMW is known for, particularly in comparison to some of its sportier models.
Overall Summary
The 2017 BMW 7 Series is a tour de force of automotive engineering, representing a significant leap forward in luxury, technology, and material innovation for the brand. It offers a supremely comfortable and refined driving experience, packed with groundbreaking features designed to impress and pamper occupants. While its complexity and the associated maintenance costs are factors to consider, for those seeking the pinnacle of German luxury and a glimpse into the future of automotive technology, the 2017 7 Series remains a compelling and aspirational choice.