Say what you want about the new BMW 7 Series, but it makes a statement. At 212 inches in length, with a massive grille in front, it's imposing and almost sinister, like something Emperor Palpatine would ride around in with Darth Vader at the wheel. It's also supremely comfortable and virtually unflappable, an ideal imperial cruiser for touring the galaxy, or at least the Autobahn at 155 mph.
Even though the fully electric i7 gets most of the attention in the 2023 7 Series lineup, the 740d stands on its own merit. It's propelled by a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel, xDrive all-wheel drive and uses a 48V mild-hybrid drive train connected to the eight-speed automatic transmission. In the video, it wastes no time getting up to speed on the Autobahn yet cruises serenely and quietly at speeds in excess of 150 mph.