2017 BMW 7-Series Review

2017 BMW 7-Series - Show n' Go, the M760i is THE luxury flagship for drivers.

By: Mark Bilek

The M760i is the top trim of BMW's flagship 7-Series lineup. It's a performance-minded full-size four-door luxury sedan. Competitors include the Audi S8, Mercedes-Benz S63 and Porsche Panamera.

Boasting a twin-turbo V12 that makes 601 horsepower, the M760i comes with an eight-speed automatic, air suspension and all-wheel drive. Unique features include an all-digital instrument cluster with head-up display, 10.2-inch central display iDrive infotainment system with gesture control, multi-contour front seats with massaging feature, heated armrests, ventilated and massaging rear seats, rear-seat tablet control system and 16-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system.

Safety features include lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitor, automatic parking, surround-view camera, forward-collision warning with automatic braking and adaptive cruise control. The M760i has a base price of $156,700.

While many luxury competitors choose four- and six-cylinder power, albeit with turbo- or supercharging, the BMW M760i goes old school with a 6.6-liter V12 with twin turbochargers. The V12 provides smooth and effortless acceleration at all speeds - no hesitation, no hiccup, just oodles and oodles of power. If you are so inclined, the M760i will run from 0 to 60 mph in about 4 seconds. Impressive on its own, more so given the buttery smooth eight-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive deliver that power to the ground without any fuss. Actually, the M760i's powertrain is just what you'd expect from a $150,000-plus flagship sedan.

EPA numbers for the M760i - if those really matter at this price point - are 13 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. At the bottom of the competitor's list, no doubt, and with the required premium-grade fuel as well. Routine suburban commuting will likely net less than 20 mpg overall. Throw in a fair amount of gentle highway cruising and you can bump that number up to 25 mpg overall.

On the road, the M760i is a wolf in sheep's clothing. It looks every bit the part of a comfortable luxury sedan, but throw in some twisty roads or bending freeway on-ramps and the BMW digs in and grips the road like a sports car -- albeit a large one. There is absolutely no penalty in ride comfort as the automatic suspension simply firms up when necessary. Steering and brakes are wonderfully communicative and there's just a hint of road noise or wind rush at speed.

Inside the cabin is fitted with upscale materials befitting a vehicle of this price. Assembly quality is top notch and there's nary a squeak or rattle on even the roughest road. Those looking for a traditional set of buttons and knobs should shop elsewhere, the M760i is a technological flagship with the latest safety, connectivity and display capabilities. Though the control layout takes time to master, the reward is akin to taking the helm of the starship Enterprise.

Front seats are very comfortable and provide ample head and leg room. Same can be said for the rear seats, but remember, this is just a four-passenger vehicle because the center console runs the length of the cockpit. Trunk is roomy and features a long and flat load floor. Interior storage is spartan.

While the M760i accounts for a fraction of overall sales in the BMW lineup, it's value as a flagship is unquestioned. What's unique about this luxury flagship is its ability to run with the big dogs when necessary - all without ruffling feathers on the way to the grocery store. Though the price point is astounding, there's little doubt that the BMW M760i is the best blend of sport, technology, safety and luxury in the class.

Mark Bilek

Mark Bilek is the Senior Director of Communications and Technology for the Chicago Auto Trade Association and the General Manager for DriveChicago.com. He is also responsible for developing and maintaining the Chicago Auto Show Web site.

Mark has been reviewing vehicles for more than two decades. Previously, he was associate publisher at Consumer Guide, where he oversaw publication of Consumer Guide Car & Truck Test, Consumer Guide's Used Car Book, and ConsumerGuide.com. He was also responsible for publication of "Collectible Automobile" and various hardcover automotive titles. In 2001 and 2002 he served as president of a Midwest Automotive Media Association. Mark has appeared on NBC TV, ABC TV, Fox News, WGN and MotorTrend TV as an automotive consultant. He hosts the Drive Chicago radio show on WLS 890 AM and was a regular guest on WGN Radio's Steve & Johnnie show. Mark lives in the northwest suburbs with his wife and three sons.

2017 BMW 7-Series Review

2017 BMW 7-Series - Show n' Go, the M760i is THE luxury flagship for drivers.

Mark Bilek

Find Used Cars in Chicago or Chicago Car Dealers at DriveChicago.com

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