Cargo

The trunk measures 14 cubic feet, which makes it similar in size to the Audi A8's (14.6) but smaller than the Jaguar XJ's (16.4), LS 460's (18) and S-Class' (16.3). It's quite deep and rectangular, and there aren't any speakers intruding from the rear deck like there are in some cars so you don't have to worry about hitting one when shoving a piece of luggage in. The trunklid can be optionally powered, and there's no spare tire under the cargo floor because one isn't needed: The 750i comes standard with run-flat tires.
7 Series in the Market

There are only a few models that compete with the 7 Series in terms of prestige and performance. The XJ offers surprising performance for a large car, but its interior is snug and looks outdated. The A8 has aged fairly well, but it's due for an update. The Lexus LS 460, meanwhile, provides much of the ambience and performance of these European steeds for thousands less — in some cases, five figures less.

In the end, though, I see the 7 Series' primary competition being the S-Class, even though it starts around $90,000 and the 7 Series is closer to $80,000. The 7 Series does more to engage the driver than the S-Class, but if the little things I noticed while driving the car — like gas pedal lag, nonlinear brakes and drivetrain whine — are more than just quirks specific to my test car, then I can definitely see potential buyers being put off. Let's face it: Despite all the 7 Series' great attributes, you're spending a lot of money when you buy a car like this. There's no reason everything shouldn't be just right.

    See also:

    Information at a glance
    Repeatedly pressing the button on the turn signal lever calls up the following information on the info display: ▷ Range. ▷ Average fuel consumption. ▷ Average speed. ▷ ...

    Activating HDC
    Press the button; the LED above the button lights up. ...

    Malfunction
    A Check Control message is displayed. On the Control Display, the areas in front of and behind the vehicle are shaded. PDC has failed. Have the system checked. To ensure full operability: ` ...