BMW 7-Series, BMW
330i, BMW 750i, BMW Review, Sale BMW, Buy BMW
BMW 750I
Dynamically, an ultimate driving
machine.
BMW sparked debate four years ago with the introduction of its
radically redesigned and heavily computerized 7 Series sedans. Critics assailed the styling and some drivers did not
like the iDrive controls. While the company has toned down the
styling and backed away from some of the more convoluted
electronics, the car still sparks debate. However, we can
assure you this: This is a luxury sedan in the truest sense
and it is impressive to drive.
Its
responsive engines and six-speed automatic transmission, its
magic-carpet ride quality, its excellent handling, its
awesomely powerful brakes, and its well-tuned electronic
stability control systems deliver the ultimate in big-sedan
river control. This car flat flies. The 760 models are
two of the quickest, fastest, normally aspirated 2.5-ton
vehicles in the world.
Whichever 7
Series you choose, starting with the standard 750i,
you'll get a sedan that's big, smooth, fast and inspiring.
It'll also be equipped with the latest safety technology. No
matter where you sit, you'll experience a cabin that's
beautiful and wonderfully comfortable. The 750Li and 760Li (L for long) offer even greater legroom in the
back seats. All the 7 Series models are exceptionally powerful
and responsive, and if the V12-powered 760i and 760Li don't stir something inside you, you may as well
call a cab.
Virtually
everything in the cabin is controlled through a single
mouse-like interface called iDrive. It controls the
entertainment system, the navigation system and myriad
settings managing the car's suspension, lighting and
driver/car interface, and it demands some study to master.
Once that's accomplished, however, driving the 7 Series cars is easy and quite satisfying.
The
whisper-quiet cabin is a great place for quiet conversation or
magnificent solitude. The 7 Series has a superb stereo,
so it's an insulated sound studio where you can hear Mozart
concertos, crystal clear vocals or crisp acoustic guitar
notes. The level of technology the 7 Series offers is
mind boggling, and a negative in the minds of some.
Almost-silent, hidden fans and heating elements cool or warm
your rear end or your soft drink; microchips stand by to
instantaneously detect and restrain a skidding tire or to
apply the brakes full force just in case you were distracted
by a phone call; power sunshades keep the sun off your rear
passengers. Adaptive headlights turn with the car.
There's
more, much more, but the point is made. Among the big luxury
sedans, the 2006 BMW 7 Series retains its status as the
ultimate driving machine.
The 2006
BMW 7 Series models offer a freshened appearance with a
redesigned grille, hood and headlamps. The lower grille
opening now looks like it's smiling, rather than frowning. The
V8 engine on the 750i and 750Li has been revised
for 2006 and delivers siginficantly more power. And the iDrive
system has been revised on 2006 models for improved graphics
and easier operation.
BMW
330i
The benchmark
redefined.
Is there a
driver anywhere who doesn't recognize the BMW 3 Series?
In the summer of 2005 it may require a double-take, because BMW has launched the first all-new 3 Series
models in six years.
The 2006 BMW 325i and 330i sedans comprise the
fifth-generation of a car that created a concept, or at least
cemented that concept indelibly in the buying public's
awareness. For 40 years the 3 Series had delivered a special
mix of sporting performance, practicality and European luxury
in a compact package. It's the car that defines "sport sedan,"
and the benchmark every luxury car maker from Acura to Volvo
aims at when it develops a sport sedan or a smaller luxury
sedan. Above all, the 3 Series is a driver's car:
accelerating, turning and stopping with remarkable agility and
balance, without seriously compromising comfort or common
sense. Finally, the 3 Series has embodied consistent product
character and values, defining what has become one of the most
respected brands among automobile enthusiasts. Given mixed
reviews following the launch of BMW's current 5 and 7
Series sedans, anticipation for the 2006 3 Series might be
exceeded only by the potential for disappointment.
As consumers
we certainly are not disappointed, but as enthusiast drivers
we're pensive about the 2006 325i and 330i
sedans. At their core these remain true sport sedans, but
their sporting heart is a bit more difficult to find.
If we
characterized the new 330i with one word, it might be
"stuff," even if BMW would prefer "technology."
Technology is everywhere in this compact sedan, some of it
first-in-class and some not previously applied in any BMW. The
2006 BMW 3 Series offers Active Steering that actually turns
the front wheels without driver intervention, not to mention
150-mile run-flat tires, turning bi-xenon headlights and an
optional i-Drive interface inside. It's the first car in its
class to offer radar-managed active cruise control, and even
the standard cruise control will automatically apply the
brakes if the 3 gets too close to a car ahead.
Technology
is not a bad thing, mind you. The 3 Series accounts for 40
percent of BMW's sales worldwide and BMW is a
high-tech brand. The car buying public expects technology in
its products. Yet after a good test drive we're left to wonder
how much technology is appropriate in a 3 Series, and
at what point it detracts from the car's original pureness of
purpose.
For this
year at least, buyers have the unique opportunity of comparing
the new with the old. The tires-up overhaul for 2006,
including new exterior styling and interiors, more powerful
engines, all six-speed transmissions and redesigned
suspension, applies only to the 3 Series sedans. Coupes
and convertibles are still available, but for now they are
built on the previous-generation 3 Series platform, and are
more closely related to the 2005 models.
Make no
mistake. The 2006 BMW 325i and 330i sedans accelerate more quickly, stop shorter and turn with more
lateral grip than the 2005 models. They are roomier, with more
standard and optional equipment and more sophisticated
electronic controls. For entry-luxury market shoppers who put
a premium on driving satisfaction, the BMW 3 Series remains the place to start. We simply recommend that you
compare these cars with and without all the new stuff.
