Executive status with the BMW 7 Series

Does it get more 'business professional' than a 7 Series?

THEY PROWL AROUND television dramas like panthers ready to strike. Whether the serial in question contains high-level corporate wheelings and dealings, government officials travelling from one meeting to the other, or spies attempting to remain inconspicuous among the metropolitan elite, the 7 Series is an enduring presence.
The car's greatest asset - it straddles the fine line between elegance and functionality. It is neither understated nor over-the-top. Much like an Audi A8, or Mercedes S-Class, the BMW in question is among the top choices for the professional constantly on the move. It is a vehicle not only to be driven, but to be driven in.
We have to say, this is perhaps not the most handsome 7 Series there has ever been, but it is certainly not going to make your stomach turn. The edges especially at the front have been rounded off a bit too much for our liking, but the large rims still set the whole vehicle off nicely. It is inside, though, where the real magic happens. There's a saying in the industry, that whatever innovations are added to a new E-Class Mercedes, will become standard in every other car in the next five years. We think the BMW 7 Series may have usurped that title. This car is full of gadgets, and comfort and driving enhancements that make its Dhs385,000 starting price justifiable. To begin with - gesture control. If you're too concentrated on the road and thinking about the next board meeting, there's no longer a need to scrabble around looking for a button to answer that important call. Simply circle your index finger in front of the central column and you can pick up the phone or change the radio volume.
Other elements we like include welcome lights when you approach the car, a touch screen in the rear armrest to control ambient settings and the Bowers & Wilkins sound system. Though there is one James Bond bit of kit we could never tire of: remote control parking. If your home building developers didn't put that much effort into designing your garage or parking bay, this is invaluable. Instead of the daily squeeze, getting out of the car after you've parked, you can now exit and watch the 7 Series glide in, controlling it remotely using your smart key.
The vehicle's performance is exemplary, as you'd expect from a German executive saloon. 0-100km/h comes in at 4.7 seconds. The four-cylinder V8 is punchy and ample for the new 130kg reduced body weight, whilst appearing almost silent when sat inside. And with this car's business class feel you'll always want to be sat inside it.
david@khaleejtimes.com
Details at a glance
Price: From Dhs385,000
Top speed: 250 km/h
0-100km/h 4.7 seconds