2020 BMW 7-Series

Pros: Outstanding ride quality; limousine-like rear-seat legroom; incredibly well finished, luxurious cabin; loads of high-tech optional features available

Cons: Steep prices get steeper as options are added; lots of gadgetry makes for some complicated controls

CG Says: The 2020 BMW 7-Series is refreshed with revised styling, new technology features, and mostly new engines. The plug-in hybrid exchanges its turbo four for a 3.0-liter turbo six and now has a total horsepower of 389. The base 3.0-liter six of the 740i sees power increase from 320 to 335 horsepower. The 750i’s twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 is thoroughly revised with horsepower jumping from 445 to 523. That engine still produces 600 hp in the high-performance Alpina B7. BMW says the Alpina B7 is capable of 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds and has a 205-mph top speed. The 601-hp turbocharged 6.6-liter V12 of the line-topping M760i is unchanged. New tech features include Extended Traffic Jam Assistant that can steer, brake, and accelerate at speeds up to 40 mph, provided the driver’s attention is on the road. The 7-Series’s structure features aluminum and carbon fiber for weight savings and improved rigidity. As expected, a plethora of luxurious features is standard, such as power-closing doors, a hands-free power trunk lid, dual-pane panoramic sunroof, Wi-Fi Internet capability, wireless device charging, and adaptive air suspension. The optional Active Comfort Drive with Road Preview system uses a camera to detect changes in the oncoming road surface and adjusts the suspension accordingly. Remote Controlled Parking allows the driver to move the car in or out of a parking spot while standing outside the vehicle. Available luxury features include heated armrests on the doors; an air ionizer that emits one of eight perfume scents; and a Touch Command Tablet for rear-seat passengers that offers driving information, various seat and infotainment controls, and Internet access via the car’s Wi-Fi system. In any of its forms, 7-Series is a technological tour de force that boasts a formidable array of ultra-luxurious features and cutting-edge gadgetry. It’s a compelling competitor in its class—particularly against its primary rival, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.