So, you're taking the plunge and indulging in a latest-generation BMW 7 Series. But, with so many extra options available, which ones are worth it?
We've selected the 730Ld sedan standard model, purely because we love diesels so much and to give us a little more money to play with. The 195kW diesel engine in the 7 Series boasts consumption of a mere 6 litres per 100 km, according to BMW of course, while offering a 0-100 km/h sprint time of only 6.2 seconds! Pricing for this sleek consumption champ starts at R1 724 993, 50, without options, of course. For some interesting reading on the 7 Series, click on Martin Pretorius's informative article below.
Related: Top 3 things you need to know about the BMW 7 Series
1. Interior Design Pure Excellence package in combination with the M Sport package
If you have R 61 000 laying about, we suggest going for the Interior Design Pure Excellence package in combination with the M Sport package. It allows you more freedom when choosing wheels and paint, trim finishers, and even steering wheel style and trims. The 19-inch double-spoke style wheels nor the more pothole resistant 18-inch wheels will cost you extra. We say hang on to your money now and spend it on interior convenience and driving assistance tech later.
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2. M rear spoiler
We'd rather tighten our belts in the exterior department since the 7 Series is already looking quite fetching, so we will be opting for the M rear spoiler priced at a mere R5 100. We are happy with the above mentioned 19-inch wheels, so we suggest mostly leaving these other expensive paint-job boxes un-ticked and saving our money for the good stuff. Fortunately BMW has a massive range of colours to choose from at no extra cost, in both metallic and solid shades. By the way, the sunroof is included in your current configuration.
3. TV Function
Being a 7 Series and costing this much money, there is a whole host of included high-tech specifications to be found in the infotainment and Connected Drive category. Gesture control, wireless charging, top-class navigation, a top-notch Hi-Fi sound system, emergency calling, front-loading CD player are all included, as is Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
If you can spend more cash on extras, why not enable yourself to catch up on the latest news while stuck in 8 am Jo'burg traffic? If you so desire, the TV function (R 17 000) allows you to receive digital broadcast TV, including videotext and electronic programme guides, while your 7 Series is not moving. When your wheels start rolling again, the picture disappears but the sound stays on.
4. Remote Control Parking
If R 8000 is still at your disposal, we would suggest indulging yourself with the Remote Control Parking function. This allows you to conveniently get out of your car (especially in narrow inner-city parking spaces) and then continuing to park the 7 Series via remote control. BMW explains how it works:
"The Remote Control Parking function is activated by the driver once outside the car, with the BMW display key.The entire parking procedure is monitored by Park Distance Control (PDC), the Parking assistant and the Surround View sensors.
"In order to use Remote Control Parking, the vehicle must be facing forwards and positioned straight, directly in front of the parking space or garage. The driver can also brake the car during the parking process if necessary. Once parked, the engine can be switched off via the key. And when it's time to move on, the engine can also be restarted via the key. During remote-controlled pulling out of a parking space, the vehicle autonomously reverses out of the parking space or garage."
5. BMW Laserlight
If you have difficulty seeing at night like I do, then the BMW Laserlight option, at R21 900, is for you. BMW explains:
"In speed-dependent laser high-beam mode, BMW Laserlight illuminates a range of up to 600 metres, nearly twice as far as that of conventional headlights. The equipment includes LED lowbeam headlights and LED highbeams with a laser module. The extremely bright and powerful BMW Laserlight has a light intensity substantially higher than that of conventional light sources. Headlights with BMW Laserlight feature blue design accents, as well as "BMW Laserlight" lettering, which differentiate them visually. BMW Laserlight also includes LED parking lights, LED daytime running lights, LED indicators, LED cornering lights, Adaptive headlights and BMW Selective Beam (dazzle-free High-beam assistant)."
- Build your own BMW by clicking on the car configurator here and select the 7 Series if that's the model you're after.
- Click here to view the brochure for accessories such as roof rails, bicycle racks and other storage solutions.
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Source: BMW SA
