Laps of luxury

A trifle gaudy on the outside, the BMW M760LI is a joy behind the wheel

The 7 Series has long been a luxury choice for the type of buyer who still enjoys driving – and the M760LI is the epitome of that. With several driving modes, sporty drivers are well catered for as throttle response is quickened, gear changes are swifter, and the whole car feels more taut and agile in bends when its sport setting is active. Flick back to the comfort setting and it’s a different story – mellower, more relaxed, it eases over bumps and floats along beautifully. It’s an impressive dichotomy.

LOOKS AND IMAGE

Its looks won’t be for everyone, though. There are some gaudy chrome touches. And in the matt grey, it looks – dare we say it – a little common. Inside, though, it’s a wonderful place to spend time. Buyers in the UK will predominantly drive themselves, but for those that do get chauffeured around, the back seats are arguably more comfortable than up front. There are multimedia screens to enjoy, cushioned headrests and massaging, reclining backs.

SPACE AND PRACTICALITY

The 7 Series does feel a little smaller in the rear than rivals from Mercedes and Audi, though. Up front, the driving position is a little cosseting too, with controls wrapped around you, but it’s easy to get settled and comfortable. The BMW is a true Jekyll and Hyde car with distinct personalities behind the wheel. We tried the M760LI on the track first. Although the long sweeping bends and snookertable surfaces weren’t going to show off the car in anything other than the best light, it was incredibly swift for such a lump. That V12 makes a pleasing sound. While there may be some body roll, it’s not too intrusive, and – for a car of this size – it’s actually rather impressive in the way it’s kept under control. It’s all helped by four-wheel drive that has a rear-wheel-drive bias when needed. The steering is a little light in the comfort setting, though, but flick it into sport and it’s far better.

VALUE FOR MONEY

At £132,310, you’d expect to get some goodies thrown in, and you do. Lightweight 20-inch alloys, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system and Car Play are included, as is an Advanced Parking system, adaptive LED headlights, a head-up display, and massaging seats. There’s even rear-seat entertainment and a panoramic glass sunroof thrown in, too. Naturally, there’s an extensive options list.