When power, performance and luxury are at the top of your list, the 2012 BMW 7-Series is sure to be a perfect fit. From the stylish design to two length options for enhanced comfort, three available engines and two hybrid choices, there is something that will meet all your needs.
Key Features
The 2012 BMW 7-Series delivers plenty of power while the adjustable steering and suspension let you create your perfect handling. The optional heads up display makes sure your eyes stay on the road when checking speed and navigating, and the standard park distance control helps prevent unsightly dings. If you opt for the V8 or V12 option, you’ll eliminate the sounds of slamming doors thanks to the automatic soft-close doors. For the safety conscious, you can add a driver assistance package that adds blind spot detection and lane departure warning to the heads up display.
Changes for 2012
There are only minor changes for this model year, including a rear view camera and a USB/iPod adapter.
What We Like
We love the fact that BMW has created a sleek, smooth sedan without the awkward proportions seen in previous models. The overall smooth handling, available options and the combination of luxury and performance make the 2012 BMW 7-Series a great choice for those who love high-end vehicles.
What Concerns Us
While the price point is somewhat high with a minimum of $70,000 for the base model, most of the best features you’d expect for that are only available as add-ons. If you want a true luxury experience, expect to pay out around $135,000 for the top model available.
Available Models
There is truly a model available for all budgets, starting with the 740i and 740Li versions that offer a 3.0 inline-6 turbocharged engine with 315 horsepower @ 5,800-6,000 rpm, 330 lb-ft of tourque @ 1,600-4,500 rpm and 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway fuel economy.
The 750i, 750Li, 750 xDrive and 750Li xDrive all feature a turbocharged 4.4 liter V8 that delivers 400 horsepower @ 5,500-6,400 rpm and 450 lb-ft of torque @ 1,750-4,500 rpm. Fuel economy for these models vary with the 750i providing 15/22 mpg, the 750Li with 14/22 mpg and both the 750i xDrive and 750Li xDrive offering 14/20 mpg.
The hybrid-lovers will appreciate the ActiveHybrid 750i and 750Li models, which include a 4.4 liter V8 with 455 horsepower @ 5,500-6,000 rpm, 515 lb-ft of torque @ 2,000-3,00 rpm and a fuel economy of 14/22 mpg.
For optimal performance, the Alpina B7 features a 4.4 liter V8 with 500 horsepower, 516 ft-lb of torque and 14/22 mpg. Finally, the 760Li with its turbocharged 6.0 liter V12 delivers 535 horsepower, 550 lb-ft of torque and 13/19 mpg.
Major Recalls
There is one recall for the 2012 BMW 7-Series due to a circuit board on the auxiliary electric water pump that might overheat, which could result in a fire.
Common Issues
There has only been one issue reported for this vehicle. The complaint is due to poor handling of the car in snowy conditions.
