2004 BMW 7 Series Review
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
A brilliant luxury sedan scarred by senselessly complicated interior controls.
Pros
Superb driving dynamics, highly advanced technology, dizzying array of features, sumptuous furnishings.
Cons
Toys can be distracting from the task at hand, confusing secondary controls, odd styling details.
What's New for 2004
A regular-wheelbase 760i model has been added to complement the long-wheelbase 760Li -- it features all the power and amenities of the top-line model in a more manageable size. The 745i and 745Li models are freshened with new alloy wheels, and are available with all-season run-flat tires as a no-charge option. All 7 Series models can add adaptive headlights as an option, and Sirius Satellite Radio as a dealer-installed accessory. BMW has made revisions to the iDrive control system to simplify various functions, and the automatic climate control system now has a humidity sensor. Finally, the outside mirrors get a power-fold function this year.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Liked all the loaner cars!
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 6 | Fun-to-Drive: | 7 | Build Quality: | 5 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 7 | Reliability: | 1 |
| Fuel Economy: | 5 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2004 BMW 7 Series 745Li 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
Review
Loved the car at the dealer but spent most of the 10 months of ownership driving loaners since it was in the shop most of the time. In over 7 times for 14 different problems in 10 months. Warranty covered it all but have since filed a lemon law claim and am trading it in as soon as we settle. I was a big Japanese car fan for 15 years due to reliability and husband has been a BMW owner for 20 years but now we are running back to the Japanese cars. Don't buy this car unless you want to try all the BMW loaners out there and hope your dealership has really good snacks and coffee cause you will practically live there, that is, if they CAN schedule you in for service.
Favorite Features
Design of exterior, seat comfort, large trunk. Exterior safety lighting.
Suggested Improvements
Don't make them if your service men can't fix them. Maybe school would help. Drop the model till the bugs are all out.
1 out 1 people found this review helpful
WOW
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2004 BMW 7 Series 745i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
Review
I'm not usually the type to go online and post reviews but this BMW has compelled me to do so. This is my 1st BMW and I am blown away! It's the most intelligent car that I've every experienced. This car has brought the "fun" back to driving. Driving to me used to be a chore. Now I look forward to getting behind the wheel. I bought a preowned 2004 745i and it has all bells and whistles (19" rims - sports package, satellite radio, heated/ventilated seats, soft close doors, adaptive cruise control, etc.). I am now a BMW lover. I initially planned on purchasing a Mercedes Benz S500 but I'm so glad I went with this. No problems thus far.
Favorite Features
I'm a techie so I love the iDrive. My 745i also has a lot of "get up and go". I love the "curb appeal" this car has. A perfect stranger walked up to me at a gas station and told me that this car really makes a statement. That's BMW for you!
Suggested Improvements
I like how you can open all windows and sunroof via the remote. I wish you could close them via the remote, instead of having to put in key in door and turn. Small enhancement though.
1 out 1 people found this review helpful
Performance and Luxury
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2004 BMW 7 Series 745i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
Review
Car is fun to drive, powerful and comfortable. The performance is outstanding with great power, braking, and safety features. The luxury features are fun and convenient, especially if you have to commute to work every day. It's nice to be able to make calls, flip through satellite radio, or relax in quiet.
Favorite Features
Power, luxury (iDrive, sat radio, phone), appearance.
Suggested Improvements
Folding side mirrors for parking.
1 out 1 people found this review helpful
Ride is Tops
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 6 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2004 BMW 7 Series 745Li 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
Review
I bought this certified used car with 22K miles. Never disappoints. I put 25K miles per year and this car makes it worth it. I get home without being beaten up.
Favorite Features
Handling. Ride. Seat comfort.
Suggested Improvements
The nav system.
Nice Ride, but....
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 5 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2004 BMW 7 Series 745i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
Review
I love driving this car - my 2nd Bimmer. That I can't get CD track titles to display has been driving me nuts for three years. I see the new 7 series has fixed this, and some other iDrive related short comings. Too bad they can't make those changes on the one I already own.
Favorite Features
Ride, audio, comfort! and fuel economy (relative to comparables).
Suggested Improvements
Blue tech diesel wagon version? Better fuel economy. Better visibility to the rear. (Can't parallel park in the city without the Park Assist.) Another inch of ground clearance on the front bumper to spare it in suburban parking lots.
View Pricing for Other Years
- 2008 BMW 7 Series
- 2007 BMW 7 Series
- 2006 BMW 7 Series
- 2005 BMW 7 Series
- 2004 BMW 7 Series
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