REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Isn ’ t life complicated enough?

All has become so complicated, did I say to myself when I was issued the 70-page document containing all there is to know about the new BMW Series 7. The reading is compulsory for automobile writers, but also for the owners, who will be paying some $100,000 and will still have to learn and try the state-of-the-art technologies aboard this sedan to fully appreciate the value of this car.

As heavy as always, the Series 7 now has an even longer, wider and higher body. Though bulky, this new German is more aerodynamic and must we admit, nicer to look at than ever before. To surprise or to shock, the Series 7 features a fat front end that reminds the Z9 prototype introduced in Frankfurt two years ago. In such a conservative segment, the gesture is daring, to say the least. The aesthetic revolution is not only apparent on the outside. Actually, it is mainly noticeable on the inside. Once again, the Z9 prototype announced quite accurately the shape of things to come in the Series 7 ’ s evolution, like the iDrive driver-vehicle interface, a user-friendly approach that sets new standards in terms of ergonomics, according to BMW. In other words, controls for each situation and purpose have been adapted to the driver, and not the other way around. One single element, a huge round dial accessible to the driver and front passenger, controls some 700 commands. All you need to do is select one of four function groups (Air conditioning, Communication, Entertainment and Navigation) and follow the directions displayed on the video screen located in the center of the dashboard. The system is impressive, but not as user-friendly as BMW would like us to believe. Before our test drive, a BMW official took no less than 44 minutes for an overview of the iDrive ’ s main features. Like many of my colleagues, I could not manage to fully understand this supposedly-intuitive system even after 300 km. Don ’ t even think of exploring it while driving! Even if the cruise control sensors keep a reasonable distance with the vehicle in front and put the brakes on if needed.

At a time when some people can hardly program a VHS recorder, this Series 7 BMW may make some feel like quitting altogether. And if ever you leave the door open on your way out, don ’ t worry: an electronic device will close it behind you.

Unless you spend several hours reading and experimenting in order to master this array of accessories, the iDrive system will certainly wreck your nerves and make you look like a perfect idiot. To avoid such a situation, the Series 7 owner can ask the dealer to make some adjustments on his behalf before taking possession of the car, according to Julie Segall, Canadian spokesperson for the Munich car builder. That ’ s the least you can do for a car that costs nearly $100,000!

Despite its complexity, the Series 7 can still make your life easier. Take the front bucket seats, for example. Their multiple functions can warm up or cool off your fanny, or let you adjust the length of the seat and the position of the headrest, and so on. Great! And the Series 7 is packed with such accessories, in fact, all that you ever wanted from a luxury sedan but were afraid to ask is aboard the Series 7. From the heating steering wheel to the residual heat air conditioner that recuperates heat from the engine and blows it inside the cabin when the ignition is off. And guess what? Yes, there are refrigerators under the central armrest and behind the back seat armrest… All this pizzazz comes at a price that forces you to keep good business relationships with your banker (upon purchase) and your dealer (repair costs promise to be astronomical). But all those of us who can ’ t afford a Series 7 can stop crying: the iDrive system isn ’ t the car ’ s only criticized point. Some materials show questionable quality (like the sun visors) and access to the rear seats is too tight for an elegant entrance. The well-finished trunk, considering the size of this car, could have been roomier. Also, the refrigeration hardware infringes on cargo space and prevents from carrying long objects like skis. Once again, technology (i.e., electronics) is a great help in this new sedan. But before addressing the computer issues, let ’ s talk about nuts and bolts.

The Series 7 will arrive next January with a 4.4-litre V8. Though the same size as the preceding engine, the new edition is more powerful (325 hp vs. 282 hp) and more frugal (14% less fuel, apparently). To reach such a level of performance, BMW motorists have completely redesigned the engine. Variable camshaft timing and distribution (the Vanos System) and Valvetronic valve lift control are two of the improvements made on the engine. The end result is a dream-like power plant that runs efficiently, smoothly, responsively and musically. In terms of branding, all the Series 7 needs to measure up to the Mercedes S Class is a 12-cylinder engine that should be offered within a few months.

Carrying power to the rear wheels is a six-speed semi-automatic, a world premiere, equipped with shift by wire controls. That means there is no mechanical link between the gearbox and the shifter. This shifter, by the way, can be mistaken for the wiper lever (located a few centimetres above), which is confusing. Luckily, you won ’ t have to use it too often. To satisfy your appetite for sporty performance, gears can be shifted with impulse buttons located on the steering wheel. The two buttons located on the steering wheel crown shift down and to shift up, you have to move your grip up. Why is this so complicated, when Lexus (among others) offers a much simpler system. Except for the controls, this transmission is flawless.

The size of the Series 7 can lead us to believe it shows limited capabilities on windy roads or in urban conditions. The rack and pinion steering (replacing a ball system) is very accurate and well assisted, which makes for a surprisingly nimble behaviour, even with a longer turning radius. Yes, this BMW is remarkably drivable in turns (it features excellent 19-inch tires) and contrary to a Class S for example, never feels as heavy as it actually is. In fact, it drives almost like a Series 3 in many aspects.

Along with electronic shock absorbing (unlimited variations are possible), it features a pneumatic suspension (also very complicated) that erases almost every road imperfection (except tire noise) and electronically contains body movements.

What about braking? With its 17-inch floating callipers, it reveals powerful, controllable and flawless. The Series 7 certainly redefines the standards in prestige sedans. More powerful, easier to drive, more comfortable, this BMW nonetheless demands that you study the owner ’ s manual thoroughly to fully appreciate its potential! Good reading!

PROS
Technological tour de force
Road performance
Interior comfort

CONS
Trunk lid design
Drive System
Access to the rear seats