When launched in 2002, the previous generation of the 7 Series (E65) prompted a significant amount of criticism.  This was Chris Bangle’s first creation as design director for BMW and being revolutionary in terms of style, it quickly challenged the status quo.  Within this context, it is fair to say that the 7 Series 2009 (F01) brings more continuity than change. That being said, the 7 Series remains the principal laboratory of the brand and this generation brings forth many technological innovations :  Integral Active Steering (four wheel steering), Head-Up Display, Night vision, Blind Spot Information System, Lane departure warning system, two cameras built into the front bumper on the left and the right, ect.  Engine wise, the Canadian 7 Series F01  offers two configurations :  the 750 with a V8 motor and 360 horsepower and the 760 with a V12 and 438 horsepower.

Although less revolutionary, the lines of the 7 Series 2009 – (F01) give the vehicle a stronger presence and are well adapted to its size.  The front is comprised of a long swooping hood and a new taller grille.  The headlights are reminiscent of the “falcon’s eyes” in the 5 Series.   Viewed sideways, the F01 displays a tighter,  swoopy line.  The rear of the vehicle has also been greatly improved since the last generation (many critics had described the trunk as a clumsy afterthought ) with a redesigned trunk, more harmonious light clusters and two beautiful and wide tailpipes.

The interior of the car is sumptuous.  One is initially welcomed by the Black panel, an interesting gadget :  the instrument panel is almost entirely black and the various dials light up only once the Start-Stop button is engaged.  The seats are remarkably comfortable and luxurious materials abound : high quality leather, inviting iDrive control device,  new multi-media interface, ect. The larger wheelbase of the "L" models transform the 7 Series into a genuine limousine, allowing the passengers to relax or work in full-fledged luxury in the back.  Furthermore, passengers in the rear enjoy ventilated and massaging seats,  two optional built-in screens in the back of the front seats (one on the left for TV and the other for Internet), and their own temperature control (bringing the total number of independent climate zones in the car to four!) as well as their own iDrive control for both screens.

Variants and engines offered during generation :

750i / 750Li: V8, 4.8 L, 360 hp / 360 lb-ft

760Li: V12, 6.0 L, 438 hp / 444 lb-ft



i: Rear-wheel drive

L: Larger wheelbase