2006 BMW 7 Series Review
2006 BMW 7 Series Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Superb driving dynamics, world-class drivetrains, highly advanced safety systems, dizzying array of features, sumptuous furnishings.
Cons
- High-tech toys distract from the task at hand, confusing secondary controls, odd styling details.
What’s new
With the 2006 BMW 7 Series, the company has toned down the car's styling and shifted the emphasis back to performance. After a five-year absence, the 750 badge is back for 2006, but this time it carries a big V8, not a V12. A 4.8-liter V8 replaces last year's 4.4-liter and provides a generous increase in power. The 745 model is history. Walnut wood trim replaces last year's cherry; Bluetooth is now standard; all interior knobs have chrome trim and the CD changer is now MP3-compatible.
Edmunds says
The 2006 BMW 7 Series is a brilliant luxury sedan scarred by senselessly complicated interior controls. However, toned-down styling and an extra dose of power make it easier to enjoy this year.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2006 BMW 7 Series 750i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.32 per gallon for premium unleaded in Florida.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Florida
$290/mo for 7 Series 750i
7 Series 750i
vs
$216/mo
Avg. Large Car
Vehicle overview
As BMW's flagship sedan, the 7 Series offers supreme levels of luxury and performance. The BMW 7 Series is available in four models -- the regular-wheelbase 750i and 760i, and the long-wheelbase 750Li and 760Li. Powering each 750 model is a 4.8-liter V8 with bi-VANOS dual variable valve timing, Valvetronic technology that infinitely adjusts valve lift and a two-stage intake system that matches intake manifold length to engine speed.
Thusly equipped, this V8 makes 360 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque. The 760 models sport a 6.0-liter V12 with 438 hp and 444 lb-ft of torque. Abundant power for sure, but still far below what Mercedes-Benz offers in its most powerful sedans. Still, the 760 is the greater technological marvel, as it employs direct gasoline-injection technology, which along with Valvetronic and Double VANOS, allows it to maximize power, torque and fuel economy simultaneously.
Once you step up to the super-luxury sedan segment, you expect prospective cars to amaze you with their fabulous levels of luxury and safety, and the 7 Series does not disappoint in these areas: The front seats offer up to 20-way power adjustments and the rear seats give you 14-way adjustment. And you can heat or cool just about any surface inside the car. The BMW 7 Series also offers a high level of competence when pushed hard on twisty roads -- something that can't be said of most of its competitors.
The most important innovation contained in the 7 Series is also the one that gives us the most pause: the iDrive system. While able to manage a lot of functions -- onboard telematics, including GPS navigation, Internet access and the BMW Assist system (for emergencies), as well as climate and stereo functions -- iDrive has a steep learning curve. Basic adjustments can be made rather easily, but more complex functions require time with the owner's manual and patience to learn -- and we know of more than one driver who has accidentally drifted out of his lane while fiddling with the system. If you're wealthy, love technology like this (and don't mind the frustration that comes with it) and have always wanted to own a large, luxurious sedan, the 2006 BMW 7 Series is likely the car for you. But if you seek a more straightforward experience, one of its many competitors may prove to be a more rewarding daily driver.
Performance & mpg
The BMW 750i and 750Li are powered by a 4.8-liter V8 with 360 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque, along with impressive mileage ratings of 18 city/26 highway. The 760i and 760Li offer a 6.0-liter V12 with direct-injection technology -- the first V12 production engine to use this. Mileage numbers are lower than the 750i at 15 city/22 highway, but power is impressive at 438 hp and 444 lb-ft of torque.
Safety
Included on every 7 Series model are four-wheel antilock disc brakes with proportioning, cornering and stability enhancements, BMW's Dynamic Stability Control system, front side-impact airbags, head protection airbags for front and rear occupants, and active knee protection.
Driving
Even at high speeds, the 7 Series cabin is devoid of engine and wind noise. Steering feel is typical BMW with relatively high weighting and excellent feedback. Body roll is held in check during cornering via the standard Active Roll Stabilization system. While it may be a stretch to call such a large car nimble, it's easy to confuse the 2006 BMW 7 Series for a sport sedan on the open road.
Interior
Inside, the BMW 7 Series cabin has a clean appearance, thanks to the minimal center stack controls. The iDrive system was designed to consolidate the vehicle's control systems into one easy-to-use interface, but even with this year's usability upgrades, the learning curve is steep. Backseat passengers will be just as comfortable as those in front, as the rear seatback contours perfectly to support your lower back and shoulders, while headroom and legroom are abundant. Go for the 750Li or 760Li and you'll get 5.6 inches of increased wheelbase, most of it going into rear-seat legroom.
2006 BMW 7 Series models
Four versions of the BMW 7 Series sedan are offered: the standard-wheelbase 750i and 760i, and the long-wheelbase 750Li and 760Li. Standard fare on the 750i includes 18-inch wheels, bi-HID headlights, park distance control, adaptive headlights, leather upholstery, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, walnut wood interior trim, a 14-way power driver seat and 12-way front-passenger seat, a navigation system, a 10-speaker sound system with a CD player, dual-zone climate control, one-touch windows and a moonroof. The 750Li adds 20-way adjustable front seats and dynamic front headrests (both optional on the 750i). Both cars are eligible for a long list of options -- the only difference is that the 750Li can be had with power rear seats to complement the extra legroom in the back. Otherwise, options include 19-inch wheels, Active Cruise Control, an adaptive ride package with a self-leveling rear suspension and Electronic Damping Control, "soft-close" doors and trunk lid, heating and cooling for the front seats and a premium sound system with an in-dash CD changer. Almost all of the above items come standard on the 760i and 760Li. A rear DVD entertainment package is also available, and features a rear-seat iDrive controller and screen, along with a trunk-mounted six-disc DVD changer.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2006 BMW 7 Series.
5 star(67%)
4 star(18%)
3 star(13%)
2 star(1%)
1 star(1%)
90 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
3 out of 5 stars
Love the car ..... Hate the maintenance
Amanda, 10/18/2015
2006 BMW 7 Series 750i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6A)
My 750i sport currently has 80k miles. Since about 40k miles the car has been blowing smoke when I idle for more than 5 mins was told it was the valve cover gasket then I was told the valve stem seals and quotes $15k to fix. Not to mention some days the car just won't start I hit the button power comes on cars clicks but does not fire even after having a brand new battery. Tires and … brakes every 6months to a year which is $1500. Transmission fault all the time but never have a slip in the transmission. The parking sensors have not worked since about 50k miles and no body can figure out why??? Car is a mess but fun to drive I give it that.
3.38 out of 5 stars
750 Problems/IDrive failures
Janina P, 08/15/2006
2006 BMW 7 Series 750Li 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6A)
Hello. I have a 2006 750Li which has had numerous problems in several months. First, the parking light indicated a failure. Brought it to the dealer and they were not able to recreate the problem. Next, the iDrive froze and when this occurs the navigation, and all controls are stuck. This occured in a busy part of Los Angeles which created a problem as we were lost. The car has had 4 … iDrive failures since, during one I stopped by the dealer to show them. Their technicians witnessed it, as did the service manager, however they can't locate a fault code in the computer so they can't correct the problem.
3.63 out of 5 stars
It will get you there, but wont' bring you back!
foreigngirl, 03/10/2014
2006 BMW 7 Series 750Li 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6A)
My 2006 BMW 750LI; I shif the gear into Drive, it will automaticaly shifs to Park, I shift to Reverse it automatically shifs to Park, it will not let you drive off, it give me a message, drive moderelty, I have sat in parking lots and
gas stations for 30 min to an hour before I was able to shift it into Drive, and drive away.
I've had BMW Mech. look at it and they say faulty codes … come us and they cleared them, had a 2nd Mec. they said the same thing. A month latter its stats up agin.
Is any one else having this issues and how to repair it?
2.88 out of 5 stars
Transmission Issues!!! Avoid if possible
warmstead, 10/22/2012
2006 BMW 7 Series 750i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6A)
I have owned BMW's since early 90's - 735i, 745i and now 750i. The 750i is by far the best and worst of the 7 series. if you have a 745 series!! KEEP IT!!! much better car then the 750i... I have had transimission issues " the Jerk or safe mode problems etc" was told everything from need to replace the transimission to it needs a software upgrade.
Great looking car but just not worth … the investment with today's economy... "Anyone wants to buy a 2006 BMW 750i ? will make you a heck of a deal...
2006 7 Series Highlights
750i
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $71,800 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $290/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 18.0 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the 7 Series include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
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