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2016 BMW 7 Series exudes luxury inside and out (pictures)

BMW's latest 7 is its most refined yet. A sophisticated, understated exterior hides an absolutely opulent interior.

Tim Stevens
Tim Stevens got his start writing professionally while still in school in the mid '90s, and since then has covered topics ranging from business process management to video game development to automotive technology.
Tim Stevens
2016 BMW 7 Series
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2016 BMW 7 Series

This is it, the 2016 BMW 7 Series!

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It is the sixth iteration of BMW's massive luxury sedan.

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This year it is more luxurious than ever, straddling the line between limo and driver's car.

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Styling is bold and sophisticated, yet refined.

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Headlights are far more striking. Sadly, laser headlights will not be offered in the US.

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Chrome vents behind the wheels make a dramatic statement, but perhaps not a statement that all will appreciate.

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Big brakes come as standard, bigger on option.

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Some things never change.

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There's a twin-turbo V-8 under there, putting down 445 horsepower.

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Twin cameras in the windshield watch the road ahead.

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Cavernous trunk will store a family's worth of gear, easily.

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Interior is an amazing place to be, front or rear.

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Dashboard is full LCD and is dynamically reconfigurable.

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For the first time BMW's iDrive comes with a touchscreen.

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Have another LCD! They're everywhere!

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Mapping is quick and responsive, and now you can pinch-zoom.

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Bowers & Wilkins sound system offers 16 speakers and sounds phenomenal.

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Eight-speed automatic is standard.

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Wood inlays are very nicely detailed.

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All controls are nicely finished and feel great beneath your hand.

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In the rear seats, 10-inch touchscreens are available.

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One for each passenger.

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Rear seating is downright opulent.

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And another touchscreen, this one a removable tablet.

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The Samsung-sourced tablet offers full control over things like seating and windows in the car.

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The tablet can be removed, or left in the armrest to charge.

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Heated and cooled seats both front and rear.

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And a fold-out table for staying productive.

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A full 360-degree camera is augmented by a 3D view of the car.

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Here's the key, which features a small touchscreen.

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Many settings are available from the key.

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There are two batteries, a separate one for unlocking the door versus powering this display, and it charges wirelessly.

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It is, needless to say, the fanciest key on the market.

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Sportier models will be available with bigger wheels.

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The chassis features sections of aluminum and carbon fiber.

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Carbon fiber in the roof rails saves weight up high. The car is 290 pounds lighter than the outgoing model.

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The latest in a long line of 7 Series cars, the new one starts at $81,300.

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