Built for long distances, this 2023 BMW 760i xDrive seems to embrace long and mundane journeys. Of course, it’s helped by new driving assistance features which make the ride safer and less stressful. The Level 2+ functionality introduces a dash of autonomy, with the Highway Assistant taking the reins up to 85 mph. This technology delivers a hands-free experience, permitting moments of relaxation. BMW is preparing a Level 3 autonomous driving system for the 7 Series, but unfortunately cars like ours need additional hardware to meet the upgrade requirements.
This new BMW 7 Series is shockingly silent, despite the V8’s roar coming from under the hood. The 760i’s silence was nearly Rolls-Royce caliber, although the 21-inch wheels occasionally generated unwanted noise.
Tackling The Bends
It’s also easy to be fooled by this dormant giant. The 2023 BMW 760i xDrive can also be fun when pushed hard. Despite its 5,000-pound heft, the 18 feet long luxury limousine surges forward with unbridled speed, requiring constant vigilance over the speedometer. Curvy roads beckoned, and the 760i responded with aplomb. Thanks to the wider front track and the rear-wheel steering, it exhibits impressive grip and stability. The nose surges ahead with confidence, while the 48-volt electronic anti-roll system ensured precision through corners. It’s also mind blowing how composed the 760i feels even during rapid changes of direction.
Of course, I had to try the SPORT mode. And as I expected, it stiffens up the luxury limousine without taking away from the plush drive. The 760i xDrive is now a bit more composed and eager to please even the mode demanding drivers. The M brakes also exhibited great performance even during the most aggressive stops. When it comes to bends and elevations, the Missouri roads are awesome. Coming from a flat and boring Chicago, these roads easily put a smile on my face.
The various elevations encountered during spirited driving were effortlessly conquered in SPORT mode, underscoring the 760i’s adaptability to more demanding driving dynamics. The BOOST mode, accessible through a paddle shift, unleashes more power for a thrilling 10-second burst. Of course, no one can defy the laws of physics, so a good amount of body roll is present. That’s despite the the 7 Series’ capacity to predict turns using its curve tilting functionality to counter body roll.
Very few customers in this segment care about fuel consumption, but the computer showed an average of 24 mpg at the end of my trip. Granted, most of the drive was on highways and flat roads, and mostly running in the Efficient Mode.
Finally Better Than The Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
As I draw my journey to a close, one has to wonder where the new BMW 7 Series stands in this luxury segment. BMW’s pursuit of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has spanned generations, often falling short. However, the 2023 BMW 760i has emerged as a formidable contender, ready to shake the foundations of the luxury sedan hierarchy. The 2023 BMW 760i xDrive delivers explosive acceleration with deft handling when pushed hard. But at the same time, it brings a lavish offering of technology, luxury and comfort to the 7 Series; more than ever before.
I have yet to sample the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but judging by some other reviews out there, the new BMW 7 Series might have narrowed the gap, or even matching the S-Class in certain areas. Despite the odd design choices, and its extremely high price, the 2023 BMW 760i xDrive is a marvelous V8 luxo-barge that we should cherish because it’s a dying breed.
