It’s arduous 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 Sequence supplied limousine-tier consolation and V8 efficiency wrapped in a refined—but unmistakably premium—bundle. With depreciation working arduous behind the scenes, particularly within the luxurious automobile phase, 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 essential query: is that this luxurious sedan a hidden gem or a mechanical lure?
Let’s break down what makes the G11/G12 technology 750i so fascinating—and the place issues can go very flawed.
A $100K Expertise for Quarter of the Worth?
When the G11/G12 7 Sequence 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 one of the refined interiors ever to grace a 7 Sequence. Extra importantly, the 750i obtained 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 just 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 non-obligatory Bowers & Wilkins Diamond sound system, and the starlit Sky Lounge LED roof carry a way of event that few opponents 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 surface, the G11/G12 7 Sequence was daring, sporty, but luxurious. And even the grilles don’t appear too huge by as we speak’s requirements.
The Hidden Prices Behind the Discount
After all, 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 issues. And if these issues haven’t been addressed by a earlier proprietor, they’ll snowball into costly repairs.
The air suspension system, which delivers cloud-like consolation when functioning correctly, is one other potential hassle spot. Over time, struts and compressors can fail—particularly in automobiles which have lived in harsher climates. A single air strut can value effectively over $1,500 to interchange, and if a couple of fails, the restore invoice climbs rapidly.
Then there’s the electronics. Like many trendy BMWs, the 7 Sequence is full of options—and each single one in all them can ultimately go flawed. House owners 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 usually comes with high-maintenance actuality.
Routine upkeep can be firmly within the “luxurious automobile” class. Oil modifications usually value over $250. A full set of tires, particularly the OEM run-flats, can exceed $1,200. Battery replacements, notably in xDrive fashions with advanced techniques, can strategy $600 or extra.
What Actual House owners Are Saying
Many present and former house owners of the G12 750i supply glowing critiques of the driving expertise, however almost all of them ship the identical warning: purchase good, or remorse it later. One Bimmerpost consumer referred to as it the very best 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 stated 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 frequent theme is that the 750i rewards proactive possession. When you deal with it like a luxurious automobile and plan for long-term care, it should seemingly serve you effectively. However should you attempt to personal it like a funds commuter? Anticipate the surprising—and anticipate it to be costly.
Sensible Methods for Patrons
The important thing to purchasing a BMW 750i that received’t grow 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 Sequence-like pre-facelifted mannequin. That was one of many most important complaints of that decade: 3, 5 and seven Sequence automobiles look an excessive amount of alike.
Second, service historical past is non-negotiable. You need full documentation of standard oil modifications, coolant flushes, brake servicing, and any main element repairs. If there are gaps within the data or evasive sellers, stroll away. I might additionally ask the dealership to drag the service data to see any points that have been fastened.
Third, prioritize Licensed Pre-Owned automobiles or these with an energetic prolonged guarantee. An excellent guarantee can prevent 1000’s if one of many advanced 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 put money into 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 examine engine codes. I’ve talked about this in a current podcast with Precision Sport Industries and it’s price a pay attention.
A Excessive-Stakes Gamble Price Taking?
So, is the used BMW 750i a cut price or a cash pit? The reality is, it may be both—relying solely on the way you strategy it. For these keen to analysis, examine, and funds 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 sort of car that may nonetheless impress on the valet or on a long-distance freeway cruise.
Nevertheless it’s not a automobile for everybody. It’s not a funds each day driver, and it’s definitely not maintenance-free. In that sense, it punishes neglect—nevertheless it rewards consideration. Ultimately, the BMW 750i isn’t a cash pit by design. However should you deal with it like a bargain-bin particular, it’ll rapidly remind you that flagship luxurious by no means comes low cost.
