BMW 7-Series 750Li Sedan

BMW 7-Series 750Li Sedan

BMW 750i and 750Li models make 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft. When equipped with the available all-wheel drive system (called 750i xDrive)--which helps improve on-the-road traction and stability and normally sends 60 percent of power to the rear wheels--the 7-Series can get to 60 mph in just 5.0 seconds, according to BMW. At the top of the lineup is the flagship 760Li, with a V12 engine making 535 horsepower, running through an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 7-Series also has a host of electronics that not only help increase safety and stability but help the 7-Series drive like a smaller sedan. xDrive models also come with Hill Descent Control, which can help keep speed within a set speed between 6 and 15 mph on very steep, slippery (snow-covered or icy) inclines. There's also an Integrated Chassis Management system that individually applies the brakes and throttle individually and helps xDrive-equipped cars handle better.

All 7-Series models come with an excellent double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension, bringing a very responsive feel without ignoring ride comfort. Long-wheelbase (740Li and 750Li) versions come with a self-leveling air spring system for heavier loads, and back-seat space in those vehicles is vast. The front seats in all 7-Series models are firm but long-distance comfortable, and very adjustable. Electronic Damping Control, which gives the driver a choice of Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport Plus modes, also comes with all 7-Series models. It controls the attitude of the electronic stability control system, along with throttle responsiveness, shift behavior and steering assist. The optional Integral Active Steering system adds even more responsiveness, by actually steering the rear wheels (less at higher speeds) to help with maneuverability up to about 75 mph.

The 7-Series is BMW's technology flagship, and by most measures it's the most luxurious model in the German automaker's lineup. And with a wide range of powertrain possibilities, along with standard and long-wheelbase versions--including greener ActiveHybrid and high-performance Alpina models. Even at its simplest, the 740i is one of the most athletic-feeling large sport sedans, while well-optioned 750 and 760 models offer some of the world's leading convenience and accident-avoidance technology. The 740 and 750 both offer as options, a rear-view camera, automatic headlamps, a lane-departure warning system, 20-inch wheels, a premium sound system and a rear-entertainment system. Options on the 760 include massaging rear seats and an M Sport package that adds 20-inch wheels performance tires various body trim and an Alcantara headliner.

The high-performance 7-Series Alpina model is slated to return late in the 2011 model year. The Alpina B7 gets a 500-horsepower twin-turbo version of the 750i's 4.4L V8, an Alpina-designed 6-speed automatic transmission and Alpina-specific 21-inch wheels.