Lap of luxury-BMW 7 Series

It defines the ultimate in luxury, wherein design, style, comfort, functionality and performance all attribute to its existence. BMW’s 7 Series is an epitome of a high end saloon that provides the best of everything needed in everyday life. In order to see it for ourselves, we recently got behind the wheel of one to see what makes the 7 so special for the elite.

Design:

7 Series is BMW’s flagship model in the ultra luxurious saloon segment that not only defines class but also attributes luxury and performance. Its sheer appeal is something that has caught the imagination of many in the Indian market, which is why when the Bavarian Motor Works company unveiled a refreshed version a couple of months ago, it made it more than eminent for us to get you the latest on this machine. Therefore, the recent introduction include upgrades such as new LED day time running headlamps, redesigned front and rear bumpers with chrome inserts which provide it a more premium look. Rest the exterior profile remains unchanged with a long snout bearing BMW’s traditional kidney grille, while the sides bear 18 inch alloy wheels, flared wheel arches and touches of chrome which are significantly visible on door handles. Its premium attitude is carried forward towards the rear with its elegant looking tail lamps, plus a touch of chrome which is an additional feature on the 2013 model.

Interiors:

7 Series cabin is all about luxury, therefore since majority of the times they are chauffeur driven the ideal place to be seated in is the rear. However, the front row is no short of a mention especially since it features a leather and wooden finish with touches of chrome giving it a premium look. The instrument cluster is the same as other BMW’s with its circular speedometer, RPM meter along with a fuel and temperature gauge. Other information such as vehicle and audio settings can be seen through digital console incorporated within the instrument panel. Right above it is a three spoke steering wheel with mounted controls, though the absence of a peddle shift was somehow missed.

Rest BMW’s i-drive is always an involving device to use, which offers infotainment. In particular the on board navigation system worked well to provide precise direction of locations to which we wanted to get to. Plus the availability of a high end Bang & Olufsen surround sound system enhances on board experience. Be it in front or rear, the level of comfort is truly amazing due to electrically adjustable seats that offer 3 way memory functions. Availability of two 9.2 inch high resolution screens further enable occupants to keep themselves entertained, while being on the move. This experience is further expanded by the addition of central arm rest that serves as a storing device as well as a controller of the multimedia system on board. The benefit of an ice box tucked away behind the rear arm rest does add utility for the user especially in summers when temperatures can take a toll on one. The foot rests that have been provided come in really handy, especially at times when city traffic can take a lot of you. In additions to this, the rear passengers are also treated to foldable table trays, which can utilized to keep one’s computer or an i-pad for convenience.

Engine:

Each and every single BMW is known to be a driver’s machine and this fact stands true in the case of 7 Series as well. Even though most of the times it might not self driven which is the typical case in India, still its performance is worth experiencing. Thus under its massive skin and humongous appearance is a 2993 cc, 6 cylinder diesel engine that churns out a maximum power output of 258bhp with 560Nm of torque.

Driving Dynamics:

As expected from a saloon of its type, the level of refinement is top quality, while on road performance figure state that the 730 Ld can accelerate from a standstill 0 -100 in just 6.2 seconds. This is all possible through an 8-speed automatic transmission, which works well both in the automatic as well as the manual mode ensuring perfect gear shifts. Though to really enjoy the drive one needs to experiment with the different modes that comprise of features such as Sports, Sports Plus, Comfort, Comfort Plus and Eco Pro. First two options as the names suggest ensure a stiffer suspension setup for a spirited performance especially the Sports Plus mode wherein ESP gets switched off automatically, leaving it up to the driver to have full control of the machine. Engine as such remains torque centric with power being transmitted to its rear wheels.

While in Comfort and Comfort Plus modes, the chassis gets tuned to a softer setup enabling the 7 to glide over potholes and broken surfaces with other ease. Whereas, the Eco Pro Mode relates to better fuel economy ideally meant for ideal city traffic conditions, where traffic jams are a common phenomenon. Auto Start Stop function and auto height adjuster are a couple of other functions that enhance on board experience. Considering its sheer size (length and width), handling is fairly decent though manoeuvring through our Indian roads at times does get handful. 

Verdict:

Being the flagship model, BMW’s 7 Series has class and elegance like none other. Its functionality in relation to performance & comfort is truly worth experience, which brings us to the point is it worth the money? Well considering that the 740 Ld is being assembled locally in India, the price tag of Rs 95.60 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi) justifies the worth for the kind of features it has to offer.