Model tested: BMW 730Ld SE
Price: £54,550
Date tested: January 2008
Road tester: Adrian Higgins

Overall rating: 86%
Need to make an impression? Want to be ferried around in utmost comfort or enjoy driving? The 7-Series promises all this and more, wrapped in a seriously attractive package.

1. Looks
The 7-Series represents the German saloon in its finest form. A 2005 makeover, which included the introduction of the long wheelbase model we drove, introduced features to emphasize the car's sporty side.
10/10

2. Looks inside
The speedo and rev counter dominate the information display; everything else is accessible by scrolling with one of the steering wheel stalks. The interior carries off the luxury feel well with extremely comfortable electrically controlled leather seats.
9/10

3. Practicality
The long wheelbase car is for ferrying company chairmen and CEOs; they won't be disappointed by the rear environment. The boot holds 500 litres of luggage while there's plenty of head room too.
8/10

4. Ride and Handling
the 7-Series is very comfortable as a driver or passenger, but there's an agility which belies the car's size. The long-wheelbase version features self-levelling rear suspension.
9/10

5. Performance
Most buyers opt for the 231bhp 3-litre diesel engine we tested. It powers the car from 0-62mph in 7.8 seconds and can achieve a top speed of 149mph. Acceleration is very responsive, the gear changes smooth and power is always on tap.
9/10

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6. Running Costs
The diesel engine averages 34.4mpg which is pretty good for a luxury car. CO2 emissions are 216g/km, which is also very impressive for such a large luxury car.
7/10

7. Reliability
The Reliability Index indicates issues with the 7-Series after around six years, usually concerning the axle, suspension and cooling. However this relates to the previous model which was replaced by the existing one in 2002.
8/10

8. Safety
The 7-Series has ten airbags ESP and bumpers that return to their original shape in impacts of less than 4mph. The car has yet to undergo EuroNCAP testing.
8/10

9. Equipment
The 730Ld SE has park distance control, cruise control, 18-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, electric seats and CD player as standard, along with voice control and sat-nav.
8/10

10. X-Factor
There are plenty of X-factors to choose from. But if forced to choose one it would be the design. The BMW 7-Series looks superb.
10/10