The 2016 7-Series is about the same size as the outgoing car, yet it's built on a new platform and from a combination of ultra-tensile steels, carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic, and aluminum. BMW says it's lost 190 pounds. The 7-Series' doors and hood are aluminum, lighter weight suspension components cut unsprung mass, and BMW notes that the 7-Series keeps an ideal 50/50 weight distribution.
The cabin of the 2016 BMW 7-Series is one fine place to spend some time. The wood, leather, and metal materials are of the highest quality. Not only that, but BMW has found a new set of details on which to focus. It lights the interior with ambient lighting, for a sense of occasion when the door opens. Some dash buttons have a thin metal layer for the cool-touch effect held dear by old-car enthusiasts. BMW applies wood to the base of each C-pillar, and fits mood lights to the B-pillars. Other luxuriant touches include an available Alcantara headliner, diamond-quilted leather, and dozens of personalized options sold through BMW's Individual program.