Verdict
With the latest generation of the 7 Series, BMW has taken a bold step with its design. It looks nothing like any of its predecessors, its peers, or anything else on BMW's existing lineup of cars. Expectedly, a drastic departure in design language is sure to stir up some emotions, and for the 7 Series, it is divisive to say the least.
Up front, the 7 Series now has a pair of extremely oversized grilles that take up most of the frontal area of the car. The head lights are now slim, split units, that once again are nothing like its predecessors. The result is what some describe as an angry cyborg face. The general shape of the car is now also much boxier and consists of more straight lines. While beauty is subjective, you simply cannot deny how imposing the design of the 7 Series is.
With its boxy silhouette, the 7 Series evokes the likeness of a product of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. In fact, it can even be specified with a two-tone paintwork that uses the same painting technology as the latter.
But the sense of luxury isn't just skin deep - the 7 Series is in fact a high-tech, luxury powerhouse that will impress anyone that gets up close with it. The automatic doors (no, it doesn't have the same sliding doors that your family MPV has) that will pop open or close at the press of a button is just one of the features that will convince you of the car's opulence.
Inside, you are enveloped by plush leather, premium materials and decadent pampering - ventilated seats, blinds for the rear windows, massage functions and a luxurious and well-insulated ride reminiscent of a moving lounge.
There's no need to even mention the driving impressions of the 7 Series, for you simply don't buy one for that. You choose a 7 Series because you want to be pampered with a luxurious ride, and pampered you will be.