The verdict
A strong full-size luxury sedan, strong on technology and held back by ownership.
The 2025 BMW 7 Series is a rolling technology showcase with a limousine back seat — 43.3 inches of rear legroom, a 14.9-inch curved display, an optional 31.3-inch 8K rear theater screen, and a 375-hp turbo inline-six that is one of the smoothest engines on sale. What it is not is a sensible purchase: the 740i xDrive opens at $101,475, requires premium fuel, and is projected to retain only about 32% of its value after five years, which works out to roughly $76,000 in depreciation and maintenance over that period. It is also carrying three separate NHTSA recalls for the same integrated-brake defect and has never been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS. Buy it if the driving experience and the cabin are the point and the money is not; lease it rather than own it if the depreciation math bothers you at all.
Jump to scoresStrengths
- A back seat that beats most limousines
- Cabin technology nothing else matches
- The inline-six and eight-speed are a benchmark pairing
What holds it back
- Depreciation is brutal, even by luxury-flagship standards
- Every mile costs premium money
- Three recalls for the same brake defect, and short powertrain coverage
Top alternatives
Cars shoppers cross-shop with the BMW 7 Series
3.50A-
Mercedes-Benz S-ClassFull-Size Luxury SedanBetter at: Ride isolationThe direct rival and the segment benchmark for isolation — quieter and more cosseting, if less agile and no cheaper to own.
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3.19B
Genesis G90Full-Size Luxury SedanBetter at: ValueComparable flagship space and equipment for tens of thousands less, with a longer warranty, included maintenance, and stronger resale.
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3.52A-
BMW i7Full-Size Luxury SedanBetter at: Running costsThe same cabin and screens with an electric drivetrain, for buyers with home charging who want lower running costs and even less noise.
CompareHow it's evolved
10 scored model years · 2017–2026
Subject scores by year
Hover or tap a score to see what moved it versus the year before. A corner mark flags a big swing.
| Year | Performance | Efficiency | Safety | Space | Cost | Reliability | Tech | Use-case | Driving | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 76 | 32 | 82 | 87 | 10 | 80 | 88 | 62 | 76 | 76 |
| 2025 | 77 | 40 | 77 | 87 | 16 | 69 | 88 | 51 | 72 | 75 |
| 2024 | 78 | 40 | 63 | 87 | 16 | 70 | 88 | 53 | 73 | 72 |
| 2023 | 71 | 43 | 71 | 88 | 16 | 64 | 87 | 47 | 75 | 77 |
| 2022 | 70 | 34 | 70 | 87 | 16 | 71 | 82 | 47 | 73 | 67 |
| 2021 | 70 | 36 | 70 | 87 | 16 | 66 | 79 | 48 | 70 | 68 |
| 2020 | 73 | 28 | 58 | 85 | 16 | 68 | 81 | 46 | 70 | 73 |
| 2019 | 70 | 28 | 54 | 84 | 16 | 70 | 68 | 44 | 69 | 72 |
| 2018 | 70 | 28 | 46 | 84 | 16 | 70 | 68 | 43 | 69 | 72 |
| 2017 | 70 | 24 | 44 | 84 | 16 | 71 | 65 | 43 | 69 | 75 |
Compare two years
Best fit & conditions
Higher scores mean a better fit for that use case. Learn more about use-case fit →
Subject profile
Academic Probation · NHTSA safety recalls
Jul 1, 2026Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes, hydraulic: power assist: electric: control moduleThe integrated brake (IB) system may malfunction and result in a loss of power brake assist or cause the Antilock Brake (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems to not function properly.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 Mini Cooper S, Mini Countryman S All4, X2, 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre, 2023-2025 i7, 7 Series, X7, 2024-2025 i5, 5 Series, 2023-2024 XM, X1, 2024-2025 X6, and X5 vehicles. The integrated brake (IB) system may malfunction and result in a loss of power brake assist or cause the Antilock Brake (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems to not function properly.
Risk
A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle. Additionally, malfunctioning ABS and/or DSC systems can cause a loss of vehicle control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
The Integrated brake system will be inspected and, if necessary, replaced, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 21, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Rolls-Royce customer service at 1-877-877-3735. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning August 21, 2026. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 24V739 or 24V104 will need to have the new remedy completed.
NHTSA campaign 26V422000 ↗428 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 25, 2026Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740I, 740I XDRIVE, 750E XDRIVE, 760I XDRIVEFeb 19, 2026Electrical system: wiringThe electrical wiring harness for the air conditioning system may become damaged during replacement of the cabin air filter.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 M5 Sportswagon, 2025-2026 M5, 2024-2025 750e xDrive, 2025-2026 550e xDrive, 2023-2025 I7, 2023-2025 7 Series, 2024-2026 i5, and 5 Series vehicles. The electrical wiring harness for the air conditioning system may become damaged during replacement of the cabin air filter.
Risk
A damaged wiring harness can short-circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the air conditioning systemâs electrical wiring harness and add a retaining strap/bracket to the harness, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 16, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning April 13, 2026.
NHTSA campaign 26V096000 ↗58,713 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Apr 16, 2026Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 750E XDRIVESep 18, 2024Electronic stability control (esc): control module · Service brakes, hydraulic: antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip: control unit/modulePlease refer to the recall report for the complete list of models. The welds in the servomotor of the integrated brake control module may break, causing a loss of power brake assist and rear brake function. In addition, the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system may not function.
Defect
BMW of North America (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2024 X1, 2024-2025 X5, 2025 X6, 2023-2025 X7, 740i, 760i, 2024 XM, 530i, 540i, i7, 750e, X2, 2024-2025 i5, 2024 Rolls Royce Spectre, 2025 MINI Countryman S ALL4, JCW Countryman ALL4, and 2025 MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper, Cooper S) vehicles. Please refer to the recall report for the complete list of models. The welds in the servomotor of the integrated brake control module may break, causing a loss of power brake assist and rear brake function. In addition, the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system may not function.
Risk
A loss of brake power assist or rear brake function can result in extended stopping distance. A loss of ABS or DSC can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the integrated brake system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 13, 2024. Owners can contact BMW Customer Service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 24V697000 ↗309 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 13, 2024Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740I, 750EFeb 12, 2024Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes, hydraulic: power assist: electric: control modulePlease see the recall report for a complete list of models and model years. The integrated brake (IB) system may malfunction and result in a loss of power brake assist or cause the Antilock Brake (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems to not function properly.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2025 BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models and model years. The integrated brake (IB) system may malfunction and result in a loss of power brake assist or cause the Antilock Brake (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems to not function properly.
Risk
A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle. Additionally, malfunctioning ABS and/or DSC systems can cause a loss of vehicle control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the integrated brake system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed between June and December 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Rolls Royce customer service at 1-877-877-3735.
NHTSA campaign 24V104000 ↗266,716 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jun 28, 2024Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740I, 750E, 750E XDRIVE, 760I
26 recalls on other model years of the 7 Series (2017–2024)
Jul 8, 2026Electrical system: starter assembly: relayThe engine starter relay may corrode, causing the relay to overheat and short circuit.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2020 530e xDrive, 2017-2019 740Le xDrive, 2018-2020 530e iPerformance, 2016-2018 330e iPerformance vehicles. The engine starter relay may corrode, causing the relay to overheat and short circuit.
Risk
A short circuit in the starter relay may increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the remedy is complete. Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 30, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning August 28, 2026.
NHTSA campaign 26V441000 ↗29,119 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Sep 30, 2026Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740LE XDRIVE IPERFORMANCESep 25, 2025Electrical system: starter assemblyAfter repeated attempts, the starter motor may overheat from an electrical overload.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 340I, X6, 2020-2025 840I, 2020-2022 740LI, 2019-2020 X7, and X5 vehicles. After repeated attempts, the starter motor may overheat from an electrical overload.
Risk
An overheated starter motor can ignite nearby combustible material in the engine compartment, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. This recall includes vehicles repaired under recall 24V576 and those owners will need to have their vehicle repaired again. Owner notification letters were mailed February 9, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov November 17, 2025.
NHTSA campaign 25V644000 ↗145,102 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Feb 9, 2026Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740LIOct 2, 2024Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes, hydraulic: power assist: electric: control modulePlease see the recall report for a complete list of models and model years. The integrated brake (IB) system may malfunction and result in a loss of power brake assist or cause the Antilock Brake (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems to not function properly.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2024 X1, X5, X6, X7, XM, 530i, i5, 740i, 760i, i7, and 750e vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models and model years. The integrated brake (IB) system may malfunction and result in a loss of power brake assist or cause the Antilock Brake (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems to not function properly.
Risk
A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle. Additionally, malfunctioning ABS and/or DSC systems can cause a loss of vehicle control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the integrated brake module, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed November 22, 2024. Second letters will be mailed once the parts are available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicles in this recall were previously repaired under recall number 24V-104 and will need to have the new remedy completed.
NHTSA campaign 24V739000 ↗11,579 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 27, 2024Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740I, 750E XDRIVE, 760I XDRIVESep 25, 2024Steering: linkages: knuckle: spindle: armThe steering spindle may break requiring a greater steering effort to control the vehicle.
Defect
BMW of North America (BMW) is recalling certain 2024-2025 530i xDrive, 540i xDrive, 2024-2025 i5 eDrive40, i5 M60 xDrive, 2025 i5 xDrive40, 2024 740i xDrive, 760i xDrive, 750e xDrive, i7 eDrive50, i7 xDrive60, and i7 M70 xDrive vehicles. The steering spindle may break requiring a greater steering effort to control the vehicle.
Risk
A sudden increase in required steering effort increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the steering spindle's double universal joint, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 22, 2024. Owners may contact BMW Customer Service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 24V714000 ↗982 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 22, 2024Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740I XDRIVE, 750E XDRIVE, 760I XDRIVEAug 1, 2024Electrical system: starter assembly · Engine and engine cooling: engine: engine control module (ecu/ecm): softwarePlease see the recall report for the complete list of models. In the event the starter motor fails, repeated attempts to start the vehicle can cause the starter motor to overheat from an electrical overload.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC is recalling certain 2019-2020 X5, X7, 2020 3 Series Sedan, X6, 2020-2021 7 Series Sedan, 2020 8 Series Convertible, 8 Series Coupe, and 2020 8 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. In the event the starter motor fails, repeated attempts to start the vehicle can cause the starter motor to overheat from an electrical overload.
Risk
A starter motor that overheats can ignite nearby combustible material in the engine compartment, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will update the vehicle software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 27, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 24V576000 ↗105,588 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Sep 27, 2024Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740I, 740XIOct 18, 2023Electrical system: adas: driver monitoring: camera/sensorThe ground connection to the steering wheel may not have been attached correctly, resulting in an inoperative hands-on detection system.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2024 740i, 740i xDrive, 760i xDrive, i7 eDrive50, i7 xDrive60, i7 M70, 2024 750e xDrive, 530i, 530i xDrive, i5 eDrive40, and i5 M60 vehicles. The ground connection to the steering wheel may not have been attached correctly, resulting in an inoperative hands-on detection system.
Risk
An inoperative hands-on detection system may fail to detect when the driver's hands are not on the steering wheel and therefore not engage the emergency stopping assistant system, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and reattach the ground connection as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 23V700000 ↗12,296 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Dec 8, 2023Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740I, 750E, 760ISep 20, 2023Visibility/wiperThe windshield wipers may fail during certain weather conditions.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 740i, 760i xDrive and i7 xDrive60 vehicles. The windshield wipers may fail during certain weather conditions.
Risk
Windshield wiper failure can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the windshield wiper system, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 15, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 23V644000 ↗3,820 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 15, 2023Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740I, 760IJul 12, 2023Electrical systemThe Interaction Bar, located on the dashboard, may not activate the windshield defrosting/defogging system and/or the hazard warning lights. In addition, those control buttons may not illuminate when pressed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems", and 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 740i, 760i xDrive and i7 xDrive60 vehicles equipped with an Interaction Bar. The Interaction Bar, located on the dashboard, may not activate the windshield defrosting/defogging system and/or the hazard warning lights. In addition, those control buttons may not illuminate when pressed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems", and 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk
The inability to operate the defrost or hazard warning lights can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the Interaction Bar, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 6, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 23V479000 ↗384 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Sep 6, 2023Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740I, 760IJun 28, 2023Electrical system: propulsion system: hybrid managementThe high voltage battery combined charging unit (CCU) may not have been manufactured correctly, resulting in improperly connected and/or assembled components inside the CCU.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2022-2023 iX xDrive50, iX M60, i4 eDrive40, i4 M50, and 2023 i760 xDrive hybrid electric vehicles. The high voltage battery combined charging unit (CCU) may not have been manufactured correctly, resulting in improperly connected and/or assembled components inside the CCU.
Risk
An improperly connected or assembled CCU can interrupt electrical power while driving and result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the high voltage battery combined charging unit (CCU), free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 23, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 23V449000 ↗69 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 23, 2023Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 760IJun 8, 2023SeatsThe front seat length adjustment system may not have been welded properly.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 740i, 760i xDrive, and i7 xDrive60 vehicles. The front seat length adjustment system may not have been welded properly.
Risk
An improperly welded front seat may not properly restrain an occupant, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the front seats and if necessary, replace the seat front structure including the seat length adjustment system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 3, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 23V414000 ↗318 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 3, 2023Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740I, 760IFeb 3, 2023Air bags · SeatsIn certain seat monitoring conditions, the front passenger seat electronic control unit (ECU) software may not recognize the seat position, and disable the front passenger air bag, knee air bag, and active headrest.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 760i xDrive and i7 xDrive60 vehicles equipped with the Executive Lounge Seating Package. In certain seat monitoring conditions, the front passenger seat electronic control unit (ECU) software may not recognize the seat position, and disable the front passenger air bag, knee air bag, and active headrest.
Risk
A disabled front passenger air bag, knee air bag, or active headrest will not deploy as intended in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will reprogram the front passenger seat electronic control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 10, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 23V050000 ↗397 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 10, 2023Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 760INov 21, 2022Electrical systemThe telematics control unit may not transmit the vehicle location information to emergency responders.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 BMW 740i, 760i xDrive, and i7 xDrive60 vehicles. The telematics control unit may not transmit the vehicle location information to emergency responders.
Risk
Emergency response may be delayed without the vehicle location information, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will update the telematics control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 17, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 22V860000 ↗169 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jan 17, 2023Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740I, 760ISep 13, 2022Electrical system: 12v/24v/48v batteryBMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling one 2022 745e hybrid electric vehicle. The high voltage battery may have been produced with a battery cell electrode that was improperly sized during the laser cutting process, which may result in an electrical short-circuit.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling one 2022 745e hybrid electric vehicle. The high voltage battery may have been produced with a battery cell electrode that was improperly sized during the laser cutting process, which may result in an electrical short-circuit.
Risk
A short-circuit in the battery cell can increase the risk of fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the affected battery cell module, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed on November 30, 2022. Owners were contacted by phone and by First Class mail on October 28, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 22V683000 ↗16 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Oct 28, 2022Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 745EAug 2, 2021EngineDuring engine start, the engine management software may cause loss of braking assist. Full mechanical braking (without assist) remains available.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 M340i, M340i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, X3 M40i, 2020-2021 X4 M40i, 745Le xDrive, 2019-2021 Z4 M40i, and 2020-2021 Toyota Supra vehicles. During engine start, the engine management software may cause loss of braking assist. Full mechanical braking (without assist) remains available.
Risk
Loss of braking assist can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the engine management software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 21V598000 ↗50,024 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Sep 17, 2021Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 745LEFeb 19, 2021Back over prevention: sensing system: camera · Back over prevention: softwareWhen shifting into Reverse, a small portion of the rearview image may be obscured, or the screen may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, X4 xDrive30i, X4 M40i, M550i, X4M, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5M, X5 M50i, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, Alpina XB7, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, and 8 Series Coupe, Convertible and Grand Coupe, 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8, 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le, 745Le xDrive, X5 xDrive45e, X3 xDrive30e, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 740i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, M760i Drive, M760Li xDrive, 750Li xDrive Alpina, Alpina B7 xDrive, and 2021 4 Series Coupe 430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive vehicles. When shifting into Reverse, a small portion of the rearview image may be obscured, or the screen may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk
If the driver relies on only the rearview camera image, the missing or reduced rearview image view can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rearview camera software and update it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 16, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 21V096000 ↗13,858 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Apr 16, 2021Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740I, 745LE, 750LI, M760IFeb 10, 2021Service brakes, hydraulic · Service brakes, hydraulic: power assist: hydraulicThe rotor and shaft within the integrated brake system may not have been welded properly and could separate during a hard braking event, possibly resulting in a loss of the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and braking assistance.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 8 Series Coupe, Grand Coupe and convertible 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8 and 740 Li, 740 Li xDrive, 750 Li xDrive, M760 Li xDrive, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xdrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, and 2019-2021 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5M, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, and 2021 M3, M3 Competition, M4 Coupe, M4 Competition Coupe, X5 xDrive45e, 745 Le xDrive. The rotor and shaft within the integrated brake system may not have been welded properly and could separate during a hard braking event, possibly resulting in a loss of the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and braking assistance.
Risk
A loss of ABS and a reduction in braking assistance can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the integrated brake system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 25, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 21V062000 ↗893 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified May 25, 2021Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740LI, 745LE, 750LI, M760LIFeb 3, 2021Power train: driveline: driveshaftThe output shafts (left/right) which transfer power from the driveshaft to the rear wheels may break due to a heat treatment error during supplier production.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 530i xDrive, 540i xDrive and 2021 740Li xDrive vehicles. The output shafts (left/right) which transfer power from the driveshaft to the rear wheels may break due to a heat treatment error during supplier production.
Risk
A broken output shaft can lead to a loss of drive power or a rollaway condition in a parked vehicle (if the parking brake is not engaged), increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the output shaft(s), free of charge. The recall began March 24, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 21V046000 ↗28 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 24, 2021Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740LIDec 9, 2020Electrical system: 12v/24v/48v batteryThe connection between the 48-Volt battery and the starter-generator may not have been assembled properly, which can cause increased electrical resistance at the connections.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 M340i xDrive, M440i xDrive Coupe, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 840i Gran Coupe, 840i xDrive Gran Coupe, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, and X7 xDrive40i vehicles. The connection between the 48-Volt battery and the starter-generator may not have been assembled properly, which can cause increased electrical resistance at the connections.
Risk
Increased electrical resistance can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the connection between the 48-Volt battery and the starter-generator assembly, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 12, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 20V761000 ↗812 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 30, 2021Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740LISep 30, 2020Electrical system: propulsion system: traction batteryDebris may have entered one or more of the hybrid battery cells during their production.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 530e iPerformance and X3 xDrive30e and MINI Cooper Countryman All4 SE, 2020 BMW i8, and 2021 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le xDrive and X5 xDrive45e vehicles. Debris may have entered one or more of the hybrid battery cells during their production.
Risk
The debris could result in a short-circuit, increasing the risk of fire or injury.
Remedy
BMW will inspect and, if necessary, replace the battery module free of charge. The remedy is currently being developed. Until the remedy is completed, drivers are instructed to not charge their vehicles. Drivers are instructed to not drive in manual mode, sport mode, and to not use the shift paddles. Owners were notified of the safety risk October 23, 2020. The recall began November 24, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 20V601000 ↗4,509 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 24, 2020Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 745LEJun 30, 2020Child seat: tether: connector/clipThe top child seat tether anchor on the rear middle seat may not be readily accessible. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, Section 6.1(b) "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 740Li, 740 Li xDrive, 750Li xDrive, M760Li xDrive, and Alpina B7 vehicles. The top child seat tether anchor on the rear middle seat may not be readily accessible. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, Section 6.1(b) "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."
Risk
A child restraint system placed on the vehicle's rear middle seat without utilizing the three-point safety belt, could increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will install a top tether anchor cover at the rear middle seating position. Until vehicles are remedied, owners will be instructed to utilize the outboard rear seating positions which are equipped with an accessible top tether anchor, or, the middle rear seating position and the vehicle's three-point safety belt. The recall began August 20, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 20V379000 ↗16 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 20, 2020Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740LI, 750LI, M760ISep 27, 2019Back over prevention: sensing system: cameraThe back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 540d, 2018-2020 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 530e, 530e xDrive, X3 sDrive, X3 xDrive, X3 M40i, X3 M, and 2019-2020 X4 xDrive, X4 M40i, X4 M, X7 xDrive, X7 M50i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 750Li, 750Li xDrive, 8 Series Convertible and Coupe 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, X5 sDrive, X5 xDrive, X5 M50i, X6 xDrive, X6 M50i, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, Z4 sDrive, Z4 M40i, 740Le xDrive and 745Le xDrive, 2018-2019 640i xDrive Gran Turismo and Rolls-Royce Phantom, 2019 M850i xDrive Gran Coupe and Rolls-Royce Cullinan and 2020 Toyota Supra vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
Risk
The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will update the back-up camera software, free of charge. The recall began November 8, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735. Toyota owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371.
NHTSA campaign 19V684000 ↗257,473 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 8, 2019Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740LE, 740LI, 745LE, 750LIAug 12, 2019Electrical system: software · Seat beltsA software error in the electronic control unit (ECU) may disable the audible warning signal for an unbelted driver to fasten their seat belt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 BMW 745e xDrive vehicles. A software error in the electronic control unit (ECU) may disable the audible warning signal for an unbelted driver to fasten their seat belt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk
Without an audible warning, the driver may forget to buckle the seat belt, increasing their risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will update the ECU software, free of charge. The recall began October 11, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 19V589000 ↗173 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Oct 11, 2019Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 745EJul 3, 2019Engine · Fuel system, other: delivery: fuel pumpThe high pressure fuel pump may not have been properly attached to the engine, which may cause the fuel pump flange to crack, resulting in a fuel leak.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 750i xDrive, 2019 M850i xDrive Coupe, M850i xDrive Convertible, X5 xDrive50i, X7 xDrive50i, and M5 vehicles. The high pressure fuel pump may not have been properly attached to the engine, which may cause the fuel pump flange to crack, resulting in a fuel leak.
Risk
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the high pressure fuel pumps, free of charge. The recall began August 27, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 19V513000 ↗115 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 27, 2019Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 750ISep 20, 2018Equipment: electricalCapacitors within the TurboCord Portable Chargers may fail, possibly resulting in a shock hazard or a fire.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 BMW 330e iPerformance, i3 Rex, i3 Sport Rex, X5 xDrive40e, i3 BEV, i3 Sport BEV and 2019 i8 and i8 Roadster vehicles and 2018-2019 530e iPerformance, 530e xDrive iPerformance and 740Le xDrive iPerformance vehicles. Capacitors within the TurboCord Portable Chargers may fail, possibly resulting in a shock hazard or a fire.
Risk
An electrical shock or a fire can increase the risk of injury or death.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the charging cable, and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 22, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 18V652000 ↗3,501 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Feb 22, 2019Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740LEJul 11, 2018Engine and engine cooling: engineThe crankshaft sensor may be equipped with incorrect firmware, preventing the sensor from properly processing input from the crankshaft reluctor ring, possibly resulting in a vehicle stall. On September 12, 2018, BMW expanded the recall to a total of 5,309 vehicles including certain 2018-2019 BMW 540d xDrive, 230i M240i, M240i xDrive, X2 sDrive28i, X2 xDrive28i, X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 330i, 330i xDrive, 340i, 340i xDrive, 330i xDrive Gran Turismo, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, 530e, 530e xDrive, 640i xDrive Gran Turismo, 330e, 2019 430i Gran Coupe, 430i xDrive Gran Coupe, 440i Gran Coupe, 440i xDrive Gran Coupe, 430i, 430i xDrive, 440i, 440i xDrive, 740i, 740i xDrive, MINI Cooper, Cooper S, JCW, MINI Countryman (Cooper, Cooper All4, Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW All4), and MINI Clubman (Cooper, Cooper S, Cooper All4, Cooper S All4, JCW All4) vehicles.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 BMW 540d xDrive vehicles. The crankshaft sensor may be equipped with incorrect firmware, preventing the sensor from properly processing input from the crankshaft reluctor ring, possibly resulting in a vehicle stall. On September 12, 2018, BMW expanded the recall to a total of 5,309 vehicles including certain 2018-2019 BMW 540d xDrive, 230i M240i, M240i xDrive, X2 sDrive28i, X2 xDrive28i, X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 330i, 330i xDrive, 340i, 340i xDrive, 330i xDrive Gran Turismo, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, 530e, 530e xDrive, 640i xDrive Gran Turismo, 330e, 2019 430i Gran Coupe, 430i xDrive Gran Coupe, 440i Gran Coupe, 440i xDrive Gran Coupe, 430i, 430i xDrive, 440i, 440i xDrive, 740i, 740i xDrive, MINI Cooper, Cooper S, JCW, MINI Countryman (Cooper, Cooper All4, Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW All4), and MINI Clubman (Cooper, Cooper S, Cooper All4, Cooper S All4, JCW All4) vehicles.
Risk
A vehicle stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the crankshaft sensor, free of charge. The recall began September 6, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA campaign 18V465000 ↗5,309 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Sep 6, 2018Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as 740IJun 14, 2017Engine and engine coolingThe affected vehicles may have had incorrect engine oil cooler line installed, causing an oil leak in the engine compartment.
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2017-2018 M760Li xDrive vehicles. The affected vehicles may have had incorrect engine oil cooler line installed, causing an oil leak in the engine compartment.
Risk
If oil leaks onto the front brake discs, a greater distance may be needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine oil cooler line, free of charge. The recall began August 11, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Note: This recall supersedes recall 17V-240.
NHTSA campaign 17V377000 ↗206 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 11, 2017Filed by BMW of North America, LLCFiled as M760LI
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall database, model years 2017–2026. Recalls are listed by model year as the manufacturer filed them; whether a specific car is affected depends on its VIN — check a VIN at nhtsa.gov ↗. NHTSA model names matched to this page: 740I, 740I XDRIVE, 740LE, 740LE XDRIVE IPERFORMANCE, 740LI, 740XI, 745E, 745LE, 750E, 750E XDRIVE, 750I, 750LI, 760I, 760I XDRIVE, M760I, M760LI.
Detailed scoring by subject
1Performance & PowertrainOne of the 7 Series's strongest categories.3.21B+
The volume 740i xDrive runs the B58 3.0L TwinPower turbo inline-six with 48V mild-hybrid assist, rated 375 hp; 2025 is a carry-over year for the G70 so output is unchanged from 2023-24.
B58 peak torque of 383 lb-ft (519 Nm) arrives from roughly 1,850 rpm, which is what makes the 740i feel effortless despite a ~4,900-5,100 lb curb weight.
BMW quotes 4.9 s to 60 mph for the 740i xDrive — AWD traction shaves roughly three tenths off the rear-drive 740i's 5.2 s. Quick for a full-size luxury sedan, though well behind the EV flagships (Model S, Lucid Air) that top this segment.
The B58 inline-six is routinely cited as one of the smoothest production sixes, and the 48V mild-hybrid system masks stop/start restarts and fills low-rpm torque so throttle response is immediate with essentially no turbo lag.
Every 2025 7 Series uses the ZF-sourced 8-speed Steptronic automatic with paddle shifters — the segment benchmark for shift smoothness and gear-selection logic, with no hunting in normal driving and prompt kickdown in Sport.
xDrive all-wheel drive is standard on the 750e xDrive and 760i xDrive and optional on the 740i (rear-drive standard), so AWD is available across the entire range. The rear-biased system is sophisticated for on-road and winter use but, as a luxury sedan, carries no low range, lockers or terrain modes.
Three genuinely distinct powertrains inside the 7 Series nameplate for 2025 — turbo I6 mild hybrid, I6-based plug-in hybrid, and twin-turbo V8 — with a fully electric i7 sold alongside on the same platform. That is broader electrified and non-electrified choice than most full-size luxury rivals offer.
2Efficiency & RangeOne of the 7 Series's weakest categories.0.64F
EPA rates the 2025 740i xDrive — the volume gas configuration — at 27 MPG combined on premium fuel. Respectable for a ~5,000 lb full-size luxury sedan, helped by the 48V mild hybrid and the ZF 8-speed's tall top gears.
EPA city rating for the 740i xDrive. The 48V mild-hybrid system's smooth auto stop/start and coasting function help keep the city figure within one MPG of the rear-drive car despite the added AWD hardware.
EPA highway rating of 31 MPG, identical for the rear-drive and xDrive 740i — the aerodynamic body and long-legged eighth gear matter more than drivetrain losses at a steady cruise.
The G70's 19.5-gallon tank at the EPA's 27 MPG combined gives roughly 526 miles between fills for the 740i xDrive — genuine cross-state touring range and a real advantage over the electric flagships in this segment.
EPA's published annual fuel cost for the 740i xDrive at 15,000 mi/yr is $2,800 — high in absolute terms because every 7 Series burns premium, even though 27 MPG combined is decent for the class.
Premium unleaded (91 AKI) is required, not merely recommended, on every 2025 7 Series including the 740i — a standing cost penalty of roughly 60-80 cents per gallon versus regular, with no E85 or regular-fuel alternative.
3SafetyGrades above the middle of the scale.3.20B+
NHTSA has never published NCAP results for the G70 7 Series; the SafetyRatings API returns zero records for both the 2024 and 2025 model years, as is typical for a sub-10,000-unit-per-year flagship. A 4.5-star estimate is applied consistent with full-size luxury sedan norms.
IIHS has not crash-tested the current-generation (G70) 7 Series at all — there is no ratings page for the nameplate and no small-overlap, moderate-overlap or side results on file, so it is ineligible for any award. No award and no data, but also no known structural concerns: BMW's tested platforms (X3, X5) earned 2025 TSP+ and the G70 shares BMW's current CLAR-derived body engineering.
Standard on the volume 740i/740i xDrive: Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation (AEB with pedestrian detection), Active Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning with lane keeping, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Safe Exit, road-sign recognition, automatic high beams and Parking Assistant with rear/top-view cameras. The gap is a real one for a $97,300 flagship: Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go is NOT standard for 2025 — it arrives only with the $1,750 Premium Package or the $2,500 Driving Assistance Professional Package, which is exactly the 'key items optional on lower trims' case in the 50–79 band.
Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation is standard and covers pedestrians and cyclists with day and night operation, and reviewers of the G70 describe it as unobtrusive and well-calibrated. There is no IIHS front crash prevention rating for this vehicle, so no Superior/Advanced credit can be claimed and the score stays below the evidence-backed top band.
Active Blind Spot Detection with steering intervention (not alert-only) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are standard on every 2025 trim, along with the Safe Exit function that warns before a door is opened into passing traffic or cyclists. Front Cross-Traffic Alert is reserved for the Driving Assistance Professional Package, which is the only meaningful hole.
Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keeping Assistant is standard and reviewers consistently rate BMW's calibration among the smoother luxury implementations, with little ping-ponging. True lane centering — Active Lane Keeping Assistant with side collision avoidance and Steering and Lane Control Assistant — comes bundled with the optional Driving Assistance Professional Package rather than standard, which keeps this out of the top band on the volume car as delivered.
When fitted, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go is a full-speed-range system with smooth braking and quick resume, integrated with Highway Assistant into one of the better highway packages in the class. It is docked for being an option on a $97,300 car: no 2025 7 Series has adaptive cruise unless the buyer adds the $1,750 Premium Package or the $2,500 Driving Assistance Professional Package.
BMW Highway Assistant is available via the Driving Assistance Professional Package: genuine hands-free lane centering at up to 85 mph on mapped controlled-access highways with a driver-attention camera, plus Active Lane Change confirmed by a glance at the mirror. Top speed beats Super Cruise and BlueCruise, but mapped-road coverage is narrower than GM's and it is a paid option rather than standard, so it lands just below the mature-and-broad top of the band.
Full LED exterior lighting with adaptive function and automatic high beams is standard across the 2025 range, with the split-headlight design and available Swarovski crystal elements on upper configurations; low-beam reach and glare-free high-beam behavior draw no reviewer complaints. IIHS publishes no headlight rating for this vehicle, so the score rests on hardware and review consensus rather than a measured Good.
The G70's high beltline and tall trunklid obstruct over-the-shoulder and rearward vision, and the thick rear pillars typical of the body are not helped by the executive rear-seat packaging. Compensation is strong: rear and top-view cameras plus Parking Assistant are on the car from the base trim, and the Parking Assistant Professional 3D surround view (Premium Package) is one of the sharper camera systems in the segment.
Class-leading rear legroom and wide, tall rear door openings make rear-facing installation genuinely easy, and LATCH lower anchors are fitted to both outboard rear positions with three top-tether points. Points come off for anchors that sit behind covers in the seat bight and require digging, and for the heavily bolstered rear cushions — particularly with the reclining Executive Lounge configuration — which make a comfortable three-across install unrealistic.
4Space & ComfortOne of the 7 Series's strongest categories.3.92A+
The G70 7 Series is a five-seat sedan in every US configuration; the optional Executive Lounge rear package converts the back seat into two individual thrones with a leg rest.
39.8 inches of front headroom is generous for a sedan and holds up even with the Panoramic Sky Lounge LED roof, which became standard across the lineup for 2025.
41.2 inches is only mid-pack by sedan standards — BMW spends the G70's 126.6-inch wheelbase on the rear compartment rather than the driver's footwell, so the front seat is roomy but not exceptional.
38.6 inches near the top of the sedan band despite the fastback-ish roofline, helped by the G70's 60.8-inch overall height — tall for a luxury sedan.
43.3 inches clears the top of the sedan normalization band outright; the G70 is sold only in what was previously the long-wheelbase length, so back-seat space is limousine-grade.
19.1 cubic feet (BMW's 540-litre European figure converts exactly) is one of the largest trunks in the segment and swallows four large cases plus soft bags.
Everyday storage is competent rather than clever: a deep center console with wireless charging tray, wide door bins and a covered rear armrest bin with the Travel & Comfort tablet/hanger system optional — but the rear seatback is fixed (a ski pass-through is an option, not standard), there is no frunk, and the theatrical hardware (Theatre Screen, Interaction Bar, rear-door 5.5-inch touchscreens) is showmanship rather than stowage.
Front seats are broadly adjustable and repeatedly praised for long-haul support, with massaging ($1,000) and ventilation ($500) optional and the rear Executive Lounge package adding a reclining leg-rest throne; the only knock is that Veganza synthetic upholstery — not leather — is the standard material at a six-figure price.
Two-axle self-levelling air suspension with adaptive dampers is standard and the camera-based road-preview system pre-loads the dampers for bumps, so the 740i glides; reviewers still place it a step behind the isolating calm of an S-Class, and Edmunds notes the body tilts back and sways under hard acceleration before it settles.
Acoustic glazing and the near-vibration-free B58 make the 740i one of the quieter combustion cars in the class — owners moving from the previous-generation G12 report a clear step up in isolation, with speed creeping up unnoticed. It falls short of the i7's electric silence.
Four-zone automatic climate control, heated front AND rear seats, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting and — new for 2025 — the Panoramic Sky Lounge LED roof are all standard on the volume 740i, with ventilation, massage and the rear Executive Lounge package optional and remote pre-conditioning through the My BMW app.
5Cost of OwnershipThe 7 Series's lowest-graded category.0.00F
The entry 740i opens just under $100k with destination, roughly $20k below a Mercedes S 500 but far above the sedan normalization band's $55,000 ceiling — a flagship luxury sedan cannot score on an absolute price scale.
The all-wheel-drive 740i xDrive is the volume gas configuration in the US and carries a $3,000 premium over the rear-drive car; the marquee options (Executive Lounge, Theatre Screen, Bowers & Wilkins, Driving Assistance Professional) are packaged extras that push most delivered cars well past $110k.
KBB's 5-Year Cost to Own model puts scheduled maintenance at $4,632 and repairs at $2,422 for the 2025 7 Series — high-ish for a sedan in absolute terms but blunted early on by BMW's 3-year/36,000-mile Ultimate Care, with the bill arriving after the 4-year warranty lapses.
Depreciation is the 7 Series' defining ownership cost — KBB projects $67,235 lost over five years, and iSeeCars measures 61.8% depreciation against a 54.9% luxury-large-car average, so the car falls below even the sedan band's 35% floor.
BMW's 4-year/50,000-mile new-vehicle limited warranty is a year longer than the 3/36 mainstream standard and matches Mercedes-Benz and Audi in the luxury segment, though the 50,000-mile cap is the binding limit for high-mileage owners.
BMW folds powertrain coverage into the bumper-to-bumper term rather than extending it, so the B58 inline-six is covered only to 4 years/50,000 miles — well short of the 5–10 year band and a real exposure on a car with 7 Series repair costs.
BMW Ultimate Care covers all factory-scheduled maintenance for 3 years/36,000 miles — genuinely multi-year included service — alongside 4 years of unlimited-mileage 24/7 roadside assistance and BMW Teleservice, with connected services and Remote Software Upgrades bundled in. It sits above Mercedes (no complimentary maintenance) and Lexus (1 yr/10,000 mi), but short of Genesis-style service valet, and Ultimate Care+ extensions are a paid add-on.
$101,475 volume-trim price minus its estimated resale value after 5 years (31.7% retained, or about $32,168) leaves about $69,307 in depreciation. Add the projected $7,054 in 5-year maintenance and repairs, and owning this vehicle for 5 years costs about $76,361 in total.
6Reliability & QualityMid-pack among this car's ten categories.2.66C+
The two major predictors disagree: J.D. Power gives the 2025 7 Series an 86/100 Quality & Reliability score ("Great" band), while Consumer Reports publishes no predicted-reliability rating for the 2025 car at all because the G70 generation has too little owner data since its 2023 redesign — CR explicitly flags extensive redesigns as elevated risk. Mixed signals with no long-run data on this generation puts it in the middle of the 50-79 band rather than the top tier.
BMW sits just inside the top 10 for three-year dependability (9th, 189 PP100 vs a 202 industry average in the 2025 J.D. Power VDS) and is Consumer Reports' highest-ranked luxury brand and 5th for reliability overall, but it is still below average on initial quality (196 PP100 vs 192). Consistently strong-for-a-German-luxury-brand, not consistently top-5 across studies.
The 2025 740i carries three NHTSA recalls, and all three are the same safety-critical defect: the integrated brake system's servomotor welds can fail, costing power brake assist, rear braking, ABS and DSC — recalled in 24V104, again in 24V697, and again in 26V422, each time with a full IB-system replacement as the remedy. A separate campaign covering 2023-2025 7 Series adds an A/C wiring-harness short-circuit fire risk (~15,154 vehicles). Repeated recalls of a braking system plus a fire-risk campaign is the 0-49 band by the item's own definition; the score sits at the top of that band because owner complaint volume is genuinely low (zero NHTSA complaints logged against the 2025 740i, 29 across the whole 2023-2025 generation) and the G70 TSB list is otherwise routine (infotainment flicker, CarPlay dropouts, front-axle noise, auto start/stop).
The volume 740i pairs the 3.0-liter B58 turbocharged inline-six (375 hp) with a 48-volt mild-hybrid starter-generator and the ZF 8-speed automatic — a decade-old, closed-deck engine family widely regarded as one of the most durable modern turbocharged sixes, shared with the Toyota GR Supra, and a transmission with an enormous high-mileage record. Known B58 weak points (pressure-control-valve failure, coolant loss) are real but minor against the N54/N63 history it replaced, and the 48V system is the newest and least-proven element here.
As BMW's flagship the G70 cabin is a benchmark for the segment: Merino leather, open-pore wood, cashmere-blend and crystal-effect trim, polished metal switchgear, the Interaction Bar, four-zone climate and a standard Panoramic Sky Lounge LED roof for 2025. Reviewers' only material reservation is that the breadth of trim and color combinations can be configured into a garish result — a specification risk, not a quality deficit.
Structural assembly quality is not in question — reviewers report a rigid, tightly screwed-together body with no notable panel-gap or rattle criticism — but BMW's below-average 2025 initial-quality result and the G70's recurring software-side complaints (iDrive 8.5 flicker and lag, reverse-camera display faults, CarPlay dropouts) are exactly what modern initial-quality surveys count as defects. Solid with scattered complaints.
Roughly 348 BMW centers cover the US, and BMW ranks third among premium brands for service satisfaction in J.D. Power's 2025 CSI study at 887, behind only Porsche and Lexus. Every 7 Series also arrives with 4-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage, 3-year/36,000-mile Ultimate Care scheduled maintenance and 4 years of unlimited-mileage roadside assistance. Dense nationwide coverage with a strong — if not class-leading — service reputation.
Parts are available but expensive and heavily dealer-channeled, and the 7 Series sits at the costly end of an already costly brand: BMW averages about $968/year in repair costs against a $652 industry norm and visits a shop roughly twice as often, with 7 Series-family figures running above $1,000/year. The flagship's specific hardware — the integrated brake module, two-axle air suspension, rear-axle steering, the 48V system and the Curved Display — is dealer-only with essentially no independent aftermarket, so out-of-warranty work is the real exposure.
7Technology & InfotainmentThe 7 Series's best-graded category.4.00A+
The 14.9-inch curved touchscreen is standard across the 2025 range, near the top of the sedan band; the optional $4,800 31.3-inch 8K Theatre Screen that drops from the headliner is separate rear-seat hardware, not the center display.
2025 cars run iDrive 8.5, whose QuickSelect home screen removed a layer of menu digging, and the system is fast with crisp graphics; BMW also kept the physical iDrive rotary controller, which most rivals have dropped. Points come off for climate functions living on the screen and for the sheer feature depth taking time to learn.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard on every 2025 7 Series trim, with no wired requirement and no subscription attached.
BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant handles natural-language commands for climate, navigation and vehicle settings, and BMW Maps is a cloud-connected system with augmented-reality video guidance and live traffic — genuinely good enough that owners need not default to phone projection.
A Harman Kardon surround system is the standard fitment on the 7 Series and the optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround with Dolby Atmos — 4D bass exciters in the front seats and speakers in the rear doors — is among the best factory audio systems sold in any car.
A 12.3-inch fully digital cluster is standard on every trim as the left half of the single curved glass panel, sharp and mode-dependent; the layout is somewhat fixed compared with rivals that let the driver rebuild the display, and BMW's gauge graphics remain a matter of taste.
BMW Remote Software Upgrade delivers whole-vehicle over-the-air updates — not maps alone — and the G70 has received functional additions this way, including the Highway Assistant hands-free rollout in March 2024. It is not on Tesla's release cadence, but it is genuine vehicle-wide OTA.
The My BMW app covers remote lock/unlock, climate pre-conditioning, vehicle finder, remote 3D view of the surroundings and remote parking, and BMW Digital Key Plus turns an iPhone, Apple Watch or compatible Samsung phone into a hands-in-pocket UWB key with sharing. Core functions are included for the first years rather than paywalled from day one.
USB-C outlets are provided front and rear along with standard wireless phone charging and a 12V socket, and rear passengers get their own 5.5-inch door touchscreens with the optional Travel & Comfort tablet mounts — but there is no household AC outlet, which some rivals now include.
Comfort Access proximity entry and push-button start are standard, Digital Key Plus adds UWB phone-as-key with sharing, and the 7 Series offers something no rival does — Automatic Doors, which open and close all four doors from the key, the touchpoint on the pillar, the screen or the app.
Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant (retraces the last 50 m of steering) and front/rear sensors are standard, and the Parking Assistance Package adds Surround View with 3D imagery, Drive Recorder and Parking Assistant Professional with Maneuver Assist and remote-controlled parking from the phone — a real help given the car's 212-inch length. The best of it is optional, which costs a few points.
A large full-color head-up display is standard equipment on the volume 740i — not a top-trim upsell — and projects speed, navigation, ADAS status and speed-limit data into the driver's sightline.
8Use-Case FitOne of the 7 Series's weakest categories.1.42D
43.3 inches of rear legroom and wide, near-square rear door openings make even rear-facing seats easy to fit, and LATCH lower anchors are fitted to both outboard positions — but the rear bench is fixed (no fold-down for long items), the trunk is a sedan trunk with a lift-over lip for strollers, and a $100k interior full of screens and Alcantara is not where most parents want juice boxes.
The standard ADAS content is strong — AEB with pedestrian detection, blind-spot detection with steering intervention, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping, Safe Exit — but neither NHTSA nor IIHS has ever tested the G70, so the crash credentials families normally check simply do not exist, and there is no such thing as an affordable trim here.
For four people this is close to the best-case sedan: four-zone climate and heated rear seats standard, limousine rear legroom, a 19.1 cu ft trunk that still holds the luggage with everyone aboard, and the optional 31.3-inch 8K Theatre Screen with Amazon Fire TV as rear entertainment. Only the five-seat limit and fixed rear bench hold it back from a haul-everything score.
In traffic the 740i is close to effortless — mild-hybrid stop/start you cannot feel, an imperceptible ZF eight-speed, standard air suspension and a quiet cabin — and Highway Assistant makes the commute genuinely hands-free where it is mapped. The car's bulk and the reliance on screen menus for climate keep it from a top score.
27 MPG combined is respectable for a 5,000-pound flagship but it is burned as required premium, and the EPA puts annual fuel at $2,800 — before luxury-sedan tires, brakes and $4,600 of scheduled maintenance. Commuting in this car is expensive no matter how efficiently it does it.
212.2 inches long and 76.8 inches wide with roughly a 40-foot turning circle, this car eats a whole city parking bay and then some. The camera and parking toolkit is excellent — Reversing Assistant standard, Surround View plus remote-controlled parking optional — but assistance mitigates the footprint rather than shrinking it, and rear-wheel steering is an option, not standard.
BMW publishes no US towing rating for the 7 Series and does not offer a factory hitch here; work capacity amounts to a 19.1 cu ft trunk behind a fixed rear seatback. The powertrain has torque to spare, but there is nothing to attach it to.
The B58 six and ZF eight-speed are proven, durable hardware, but everything around them is the opposite of work-tough: standard air suspension with adaptive dampers and road preview, Veganza and Merino surfaces, 20-inch wheels and low-profile tires, and no washable or fleet-spec interior option.
No onboard AC power, no tie-down system beyond trunk hooks, no roof rails or rack provision, no hitch, and no upfitter ecosystem — the 7 Series has essentially no jobsite provisions by design.
This is what the car is for: roughly 526 miles between fills, air-sprung ride, a cabin owners describe as much quieter than the previous generation, massaging seats, and hands-free Highway Assistant to take the strain off mapped interstate miles. Only the S-Class's last increment of isolation is missing.
xDrive all-wheel drive and the air suspension's small ride-height raise make a snowy or gravel road a non-event, but this is a low sedan on wide low-profile tires with no roof rails, no hitch for bike or ski racks, no skid protection and no terrain modes. Fine on the road to the trailhead; not past it.
The 19.1 cu ft trunk is generous in absolute terms and handles a family's suitcases, but it is a fixed-shape sedan trunk: the rear seatback does not fold as standard (a ski pass-through is optional), there is no roof rail or hitch to hang anything on, and bulky items simply do not go in.
9Driving ExperienceGrades above the middle of the scale.2.91B-
Remarkably composed for a 4,900–5,000 lb car — active anti-roll bars, adaptive dampers and optional rear-wheel steering keep it flat and let it change direction like something a size smaller — but Edmunds flags a pitch-and-sway motion under hard acceleration, and the G70's mass and length are never entirely hidden.
Accurate and consistently weighted, never darty or sloppy, but numb — the electric rack filters out the road surface, which is arguably right for the mission and still costs it against the segment's best.
Large brakes with a firm, progressive pedal that reviewers call powerful and a contributor to how sporting the car feels; the 48V system's coasting/regen blending is smooth and there is no reported fade in normal use, though hauling this mass repeatedly is a lot to ask of any road-car brake.
The B58 inline-six with 48V mild-hybrid assist and the ZF eight-speed is one of the best-calibrated combustion drivetrains on sale: torque from 1,850 rpm, no perceptible lag, restarts you cannot feel, and shifts that pass unnoticed.
Inherently balanced and heavily isolated, the six is near-silent cruising and turns pleasant rather than coarse when extended; owners moving from the previous generation describe the car as noticeably quieter overall.
A 126.6-inch wheelbase leaves the G70 with roughly a 40-foot turning circle even with rear-axle steering — the worst figure in the sedan band and a real constraint in parking structures and U-turns.
Huge seat and wheel adjustment range, a commanding but proper sedan seating position, and BMW's retained iDrive rotary controller all help; against that, the high beltline and thick rear pillars hurt over-the-shoulder vision and climate functions now live in the touchscreen and the touch-capacitive Interaction Bar rather than under fingertips.
There is genuine character here — a charismatic inline-six, 4.9 seconds to 60 in the xDrive, and enough rear-drive attitude that reviewers will provoke it — but the G70 is tuned as a serene chauffeur car first, and its size, weight and numb steering mean few owners will take the long way home for the driving alone.
10Value & Market PositionGrades above the middle of the scale.3.11B
The 740i arrives well-stocked — 14.9-inch curved display with OS 8.5, BMW Interaction Bar, four-zone climate, heated front seats, air suspension, and a full standard driver-assist set (blind-spot monitoring, lane keeping, rear cross-traffic, rear and top-view cameras) — and for 2025 the Panoramic Sky Lounge LED roof became standard on the 740i. But the features that define the car in showrooms (Executive Lounge rear seating, the 31-inch Theatre Screen, Bowers & Wilkins Diamond audio, massage seats, Driving Assistance Professional/Highway Assistant) are all packaged options that add five figures.
At $98,475 the 740i undercuts a comparably positioned Mercedes S 500 by roughly $20,000 while delivering a 375-hp mild-hybrid inline-six, air suspension, rear-axle steering availability and the segment's most ambitious cabin tech — strong content-for-price by flagship standards. What pulls it back to merely fair is the after-purchase math: the steepest depreciation in the luxury-large class means the dollars-per-year of ownership are worse than the sticker comparison suggests.
Uniquely broad for a flagship: within one body shell a buyer can pick a mild-hybrid inline-six (740i, RWD or xDrive), a plug-in hybrid (750e xDrive), a twin-turbo V8 (760i xDrive), or three battery-electric i7 variants, spanning roughly $98k to well past $170k — plus M Sport packages and BMW Individual bespoke options. The one gap is body configuration: the US gets a single long-wheelbase sedan, with no short-wheelbase or extended limousine option.
The G70 roughly doubled its predecessor's US volume and has held it — 5,974 units in 2022 (final G12 year) against 10,810 in 2023, 10,715 in 2024 and 11,303 in 2025 — which makes it a strong performer in a segment most rivals are abandoning (Audi killing the A8, Lexus ending the LS, Volvo withdrawing its sedans). Growth in a shrinking niche is real market acceptance, but absolute volume stays tiny: BMW sells roughly twice as many X7s.
BMW is a genuinely aspirational badge and one of the two highest-volume US luxury brands, and the 7 Series has decades of flagship equity behind it. It falls short of a top score on two counts: the S-Class still owns the status-symbol position in this segment, and the G70's split-headlight face and outsized kidney grille remain openly polarizing among reviewers and buyers.
As a low-volume flagship the 7 Series is consistently supported rather than sold at sticker: BMW Financial Services runs subvented 39-month lease programs across the whole range, layers up to $3,000 in loyalty credit for returning customers, and adds college-grad incentives — with aging model-year inventory typically negotiable on top. Good buyer benefit without desperation pricing.
2025 is the third model year of the G70 generation launched for 2023, so the platform, the OS 8.5 electronics and the 48V mild-hybrid B58 are all current rather than dated, and the year brought a small equipment bump (standard Panoramic Sky Lounge roof, expanded Highway Assistant). It sits mid-cycle rather than brand-new, with an LCI facelift due before the end of the decade — modest redesign risk for a 2025 buyer.
Reviewer consensus is strongly favorable — US News scores the 2025 7-Series 9.4/10, praising dramatic styling, genuine luxury, passenger space, tech depth and a chassis that disguises its mass via air suspension, active dampers and rear-wheel steering. The nameplate has collected class silverware (Auto Express Luxury Car of the Year 2024 for the 7 Series, with the i7 taking Auto Express Luxury Car 2023, a What Car? Technology Award and Top Gear's Best Luxury EV). It stops short of a comparison-test sweep: the S-Class is still judged more isolated over broken pavement, and the interface complexity and absence of physical controls draw persistent criticism.