It’s laborious to disregard the attraction of a used BMW 750i on the G11/G12 platform of the high-end sedan. As soon as the flagship of Bavaria’s luxurious lineup, the 2016–2022 7 Collection provided limousine-tier consolation and V8 efficiency wrapped in a delicate—but unmistakably premium—package deal. With depreciation working laborious behind the scenes, particularly within the luxurious automobile section, many of those once-$100,000 sedans can now be had for as little as $35,000. However beneath that tempting price ticket lies a crucial query: is that this luxurious sedan a hidden gem or a mechanical lure?
Let’s break down what makes the G11/G12 era 750i so fascinating—and the place issues can go very improper.
A $100K Expertise for Quarter of the Value?
When the G11/G12 7 Collection was up to date in 2019-2020, BMW pulled no punches. The facelift launched the daring and large new kidney grills, sleeker laser headlights, and probably the most refined interiors ever to grace a 7 Collection. Extra importantly, the 750i acquired a considerably revised 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8—generally known as the N63TU3—delivering 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. That’s sufficient to catapult the 750i from 0 to 60 in slightly below 4 seconds, inserting it squarely in M-level territory, but it stays whisper-quiet and composed at cruising speeds.
Inside, the cabin feels extra like a lounge than a automobile. Options like massaging, heated, and ventilated seats (each entrance and rear), the optionally available Bowers & Wilkins Diamond sound system, and the starlit Sky Lounge LED roof carry a way of event that few rivals can match. It additionally has loads of new tech—iDrive 7.0, Gesture Management, adaptive cruise, semi-autonomous driving aids, and rear-seat leisure all featured prominently in better-equipped fashions.
From the motive force’s seat, the expertise was fairly spectacular for a automobile of this dimension, even on the observe. And from the skin, the G11/G12 7 Collection was daring, sporty, but luxurious. And even the grilles don’t appear too large by at this time’s requirements.
The Hidden Prices Behind the Cut price
In fact, the used luxurious automobile market is suffering from cautionary tales, and the BMW 750i isn’t any exception. Whereas the post-2019 N63TU3 engine is extra refined and dependable than its predecessors, it nonetheless calls for correct upkeep. Oil leaks, coolant points, and carbon buildup stay identified considerations. And if these issues haven’t been addressed by a earlier proprietor, they will snowball into costly repairs.
The air suspension system, which delivers cloud-like consolation when functioning correctly, is one other potential bother spot. Over time, struts and compressors can fail—particularly in automobiles which have lived in harsher climates. A single air strut can price properly over $1,500 to switch, and if a couple of fails, the restore invoice climbs rapidly.
Then there’s the electronics. Like many fashionable BMWs, the 7 Collection is full of options—and each single one in all them can ultimately go improper. Homeowners have reported consolation entry points, infotainment bugs, battery drain issues, and glitchy gesture management. These aren’t catastrophic failures, however they’re a reminder that high-tech comfort typically comes with high-maintenance actuality.
Routine upkeep can be firmly within the “luxurious automobile” class. Oil modifications recurrently price over $250. A full set of tires, particularly the OEM run-flats, can exceed $1,200. Battery replacements, notably in xDrive fashions with complicated techniques, can method $600 or extra.
What Actual Homeowners Are Saying
Many present and former house owners of the G12 750i supply glowing evaluations of the driving expertise, however practically all of them ship the identical warning: purchase sensible, or remorse it later. One Bimmerpost person referred to as it the perfect automobile they’ve ever owned, however famous they wouldn’t contact one outdoors of a guaranty. A Redditor who bought their 750i as a Licensed Pre-Owned mannequin mentioned it was flawless—as long as they stayed forward of upkeep. One other YouTube reviewer praised the facility and luxury however admitted the electronics drove them mad after the 60,000-mile mark.
The widespread theme is that the 750i rewards proactive possession. For those who deal with it like a luxurious automobile and plan for long-term care, it can probably serve you properly. However for those who attempt to personal it like a price range commuter? Count on the surprising—and anticipate it to be costly.
Sensible Methods for Patrons
The important thing to purchasing a BMW 750i that gained’t turn out to be a cash pit is all about due diligence. First, keep on with 2019 or newer fashions. Not solely do they profit from the extra dependable model of the N63 engine, however additionally they embrace significant tech and design upgrades. And truthfully, it appears fairly aggressive in design in comparison with the tamer, extra 5 Collection-like pre-facelifted mannequin. That was one of many most important complaints of that decade: 3, 5 and seven Collection automobiles look an excessive amount of alike.
Second, service historical past is non-negotiable. You need full documentation of normal oil modifications, coolant flushes, brake servicing, and any main part repairs. If there are gaps within the data or evasive sellers, stroll away. I’d additionally ask the dealership to drag the service data to see any points that have been mounted.
Third, prioritize Licensed Pre-Owned automobiles or these with an lively prolonged guarantee. A very good guarantee can prevent 1000’s if one of many complicated techniques fails. However as all the time, analysis the prolonged guarantee plans as a result of they don’t all the time cowl the costliest repairs.
Lastly, all the time spend money on a pre-purchase inspection by a BMW specialist. These inspections are price their weight in gold on the subject of recognizing air suspension sag, leaky valve covers, worn bushings, or lingering verify engine codes. I’ve talked about this in a latest podcast with Precision Sport Industries and it’s price a pay attention.
A Excessive-Stakes Gamble Value Taking?
So, is the used BMW 750i a cut price or a cash pit? The reality is, it may be both—relying fully on the way you method it. For these prepared to analysis, examine, and price range for maintenance, the 750i delivers a uniquely compelling mixture of efficiency, luxurious, and know-how that few different used automobiles within the $40,000 vary can match. It’s the type of car that may nonetheless impress on the valet or on a long-distance freeway cruise.
However it’s not a automobile for everybody. It’s not a price range day by day driver, and it’s definitely not maintenance-free. In that sense, it punishes neglect—however it rewards consideration. In the long run, the BMW 750i isn’t a cash pit by design. However for those who deal with it like a bargain-bin particular, it’ll rapidly remind you that flagship luxurious by no means comes low-cost.
