Mercedes-Benz’s iconic S-Class has dominated the luxury sedan market over the past years, and it is often regarded as the pinnacle of the category. BMW’s luxurious vehicle, the 7-Series, has always been a great competitor, and for its latest iteration, it aims to challenge the fellow German vehicle to the fullest. So, let’s delve deeper and see what the all-new BMW 7-Series brings to the table and how it compares to the classic Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Performance & Engine Options: German On German Attack
Mercedes provides two engines for the sedan: a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine with 429 HP for the S500 and a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine with 496 HP for the S580. A 48-volt hybrid system (dubbed EQ Boost) is included in both powertrains, and they are mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel drive as standard.
There's also a plug-in hybrid option available, with an all-electric range of around 60 miles. While every model is equipped with air suspension, the E-Active Body Control has a curving dynamic that allows the vehicle to lean into turns gently. It is also possible to have an all-wheel steering system for the S-class, transforming the big-bodied Mercedes into a surprisingly maneuverable vehicle in tight proximities.
Powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, the 740i is equipped with a 48-volt hybrid system, exclusively available with rear-wheel drive. BMW expects the 740i to reach 60 MPH in 5.0 seconds. The 760i xDrive is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine that produces 536 HP with all-wheel drive as standard; this engine also incorporates a 48-volt hybrid technology, and BMW says it can accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in 4.2 seconds.
In addition to its rapid acceleration, it offers a smooth operation. The new vehicle is equipped with air suspension as standard, and BMW has also integrated a rear-wheel steering system as well as variable dampers into the chassis. While it may have a more nimble feel than the previous model, the new vehicle nevertheless prioritizes comfort above agility.
Design & Styling: Luxurious To The Bone
When it comes to the S-class interior, displays take precedence. The sedan may be equipped with up to five touchscreens, including a massive center touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. For a more traditional look, you may disable this feature, which works in conjunction with other technologies to give the displays a three-dimensional image.
An improved head-up display that will offer navigation instructions in augmented reality will also be included in the vehicle. For the most part, the arrows move and rotate in real-time to better aid the driver.
Those in the rear enjoy limousine-like comfort thanks to the sedan's luxurious interior materials and high-quality construction, both of which are hallmarks of Mercedes-Benz luxury. There is a slight increase in legroom and headroom in the latest model's back seat area and reclining chairs with massaging capabilities and substantial heating components.
The optional rear-seat multimedia system, which adds two 11.6-inch displays to the front seatbacks and interactive LED interior lighting, will pamper those in the back and keep them actively occupied.
The BMW 7-series is the summit of the BMW fleet, and it provides its passengers with a plethora of comforts. The inside of the 7-series is adorned with luxurious materials such as lavish leathers, stainless steel accents, and elegant glass and wood trim components; owners may even opt for a new cashmere upholstery option if it is more in line with their particular style.
The luxurious cabin is now more technologically, aesthetically, and opulently equipped to rival the Mercedes-Benz S-class. When fitted with the Executive Lounge option, which includes power-adjustable recliner chairs with massage, a wireless smartphone charging dock for the rear seat section, and adjustable neck cushions for the headrests, the 7-series shines the brightest. When it comes to cargo space, the trunk is about the size you'd anticipate for a full-size luxury vehicle, and the back seat pass-through allows you to carry longer goods.
BMW & Mercedes-Benz: Two Icons Defining Craftsmanship
Both cars host a variety of driver-assistance options, including a forward-collision alarm and automatic emergency braking system, lane-departure warning mechanism alongside lane-keeping assistance, and an adaptive cruise control system. Mercedes’s adaptive cruise control may not live up to its name occasionally.
Both cars provide outstanding performance and engine options accompanied by electric and hybrid systems. The 7-Series is expected to put out big numbers and change the market hierarchy, but we’ll have to wait and see if it lives up to the hype. The interior design of both automobiles is as immaculate as a royal palace. Lavish as it can be, you can’t go wrong with either of these cars if aesthetics are your top priority. The BMW 7-Series is expected to start at about $94,000, approximately $20,000 under the S-Class, the mogul itself.