iDrive Improvements Address Customer Complaints
The BMW 7-series, alongside the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Audi A8, are the rocks on which Europe's large luxury sedan market have been built on. Each can be classified in its own manner - the S-Class as traditional luxury and A8 as contemporary sport. The 7-Series, however, is out of the ordinary in innovation, technology and style.
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| The 7-series is a leader in innovation, technology and style, but it hasn't been without its critics. (Photo: BMW) |
Qualms over the complicity of its recent redesign and complex computerized functionality have cast a shadow over BMW's flagship, clearly charting a dividing line between those that love and those that loathe it. Irate BMW fans have demanded a restyle while many more want the controversial iDrive system sacked, enough criticism as it seems that the 2004 7 has received significant updates.
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| Minor updates for the 2004 model include an enhanced automatic headlight system for increased visibility. (Photo: BMW) |
Though BMW aficionados have attempted to start a row with stylist Chris Bangle for the 7's appearance, this update leaves the exterior alone barring minor technical advances barely visible to the eye. Behind the clear polycarbonate headlight covers lay lamps that adapt to the road. Automatically guided by the direction of the steering wheel, the car's enhanced headlight system illuminates the road ahead more clearly, helping the driver to identify objects or obstacles in the car's path that could otherwise go unnoticed until too late.
The other visible change is the jump to a larger optional wheel and tire package. Now 20-inch light alloy wheels with lattice-shaped 'Y' spokes wrapped in 245 width tires up front and 275 width in back.