When a redesigned 7 Series debuted for the 2002 model year, it was one of the most controversial cars in recent history. Not only did it signal a new design direction for BMW that rubbed many people the wrong way, it had a new technology feature — iDrive — that had many detractors. Despite all the criticism, a funny thing happened: BMW went on to sell more of the new 7 Series than of its predecessor.

Now it's time for another new 7 Series. The 2009 redesign doesn't make as sharp a break from its predecessor as the 2002 model did; rather, it's a refinement of it, with styling that's less about being different than the '02's was. There's also a new version of iDrive that's much easier to use. On the whole, it rates well in terms of ride comfort and power, but there are some little things that might push you away from the 7 Series and into a Mercedes-Benz dealership.

• Ride & Handling
• Going & Stopping
• The Inside
• Cargo