Under the design leadership of Claus Luthe, the second BMW 7 series model incorporates harmonious lines and dynamic, confident style elements. The wide kidney on the front, for example, or the imposing rear, whose L-shaped taillights further underline the look. The BMW 7 series now comes with ABS as standard together with optional Park Distance Control and dual pane glass, which significantly reduces noise levels and ensures mist-free windows.

From 1987, the high-end sedan is available with a 5.0 liter V12-cylinder engine that delivers 220 kW (300 hp). The engine is the first of its kind to be used in German automobile manufacturing since 1945. The BMW 7 series is now also available in a longer version for maximum comfort for rear seat passengers. From 1989, the new High Line optional extra takes luxury to a new level with equipment such as an on-board refrigerator and a car phone.

For the first time in a production vehicle, Xenon lighting is available as an option from 1991 onwards. In 1992 a major model update is introduced. Subsequently, two 8-cylinder engines with three and four liter displacement complete the engine range. Around 310,000 vehicles are built by 1994.

Production period: 1986–1994
Engines: 3.0–5.0 liters (135–220 kW, 184–300 hp), 6-, 8- & 12-cylinder
Length/width/height: 4,910–5,024 mm/1,845 mm/1,400–1,411 mm

Launched at the 2001 International Motor Show (IAA) in Germany, the new BMW 7 series (E65) is a completely new vehicle in every respect. Chris Bangle’s team create design accents with the totally redesigned headlights and the characteristically offset trunk lid. Inside, the iDrive system provides the driver with an unprecedented operating environment. There are fewer control buttons. Instead around 700 functions covering the vehicle's extensive and diverse systems can be accessed via a single button that can be turned, pushed and moved in eight directions. The on-board computer uses information from the internet. Another innovation has its worldwide premiere: A six-speed automatic transmission with a gear selector on the steering wheel. The top-of-the-range engine now produces 327 kW (445 hp), which the 12-cylinder engine draws from six liters of displacement.

From 2003 the BMW 7 series with adaptive cornering lights is available, and a major model update is undertaken in 2005. Visually, the rear is wider, the kidneys are bigger, and Bi-Xenon headlamps are now standard equipment. They also have a much more dynamic design. The iDrive system is updated and can now be operated more efficiently. In the fall of 2005, a high-beam assistant is added as well as Night Vision, the BMW night assistant which helps to improve safety in the dark.

In addition to the sedan (E65), the various model designations also include the long version with a 14 centimeter longer wheelbase (E66), a high-security version (E67), and the hydrogen-powered version (E68).

Production period: 2001–2008
Engines: 3.0–6.0 liters (160–327 kW, 218–445 hp), 6-, 8- & 12-cylinder
Length/width/height: 5,039–5,179 mm/1,902 mm/1,491 mm

Manufactured from 2015, the BMW 7 series (G11) combines superior dynamics and precision with an exceptional presence and exclusive luxury. This is evident in the opulent, shimmering paint finishes and the striking design at the rear. Flat LED lights are connected by a narrow band of light and project a confident appearance, reinforced by the exhaust tailpipes with their trapezoid contours and wide positioning. The body consists of a composite of CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic), steel and aluminum, saving a considerable amount of weight. A panoramic roof is available in the long-wheelbase version (G12), which provides ventilation with its slide and lift function. As a Sky Lounge, it also shows colored graphics, which harmonize perfectly with the light accents on the B-pillar. And on approach, the BMW 7 series greets the driver with a “Welcome & Goodbye” light show.

Exclusive, highly crafted materials express your personal preferences – for instance Nappa leather upholstery with “Cognac” quilting, complementary interior trims and the roof lining. The rear passenger entertainment system is equipped with HD touch screens. With the Executive Lounge option, rear passengers enjoy maximum comfort thanks to the luxurious seats with adjustable massage functions. Occupants sitting behind the front passenger have an unobstructed panoramic view, and their footrest is attached to the front passenger seat.

Because of its integrated SIM card, the BMW Personal Assistant has unlimited mobile access to apps and services, such as the continuously updated Connected Navigation, and remote software upgrades. BMW Connected represents the seamless connection between smartphone and vehicle. Semi-automated parking gives the driver control of the vehicle without being in it: The BMW 7 series can maneuver itself into parking spaces and garages with driver supervision.

With the model update in 2019 the car was given a new, significantly larger radiator grille, which, together with the matching headlights emphasize the width and presence of the luxury sedan.

Production period: 2015–today
Engines: 2.0–6.6 liters (183–448 kW, 249–610 hp), 4-, 6-, 8- & 12-cylinder
Length/width/height: 5,098–5,260 mm/1,902 mm/1,467–1,479 mm