It’s exhausting 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 supplied limousine-tier consolation and V8 efficiency wrapped in a refined—but unmistakably premium—bundle. With depreciation working exhausting behind the scenes, particularly within the luxurious automotive 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 entice?
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 obtained a considerably revised 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8—often 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 automotive. 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 driving force’s seat, the expertise was fairly spectacular for a automotive of this dimension, even on the monitor. And from the skin, the G11/G12 7 Collection was daring, sporty, but luxurious. And even the grilles don’t appear too huge by right this moment’s requirements.
The Hidden Prices Behind the Discount
In fact, the used luxurious automotive market is plagued by cautionary tales, and the BMW 750i is not 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 recognized issues. 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 hassle spot. Over time, struts and compressors can fail—particularly in vehicles which have lived in harsher climates. A single air strut can value properly over $1,500 to exchange, 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 every of 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 usually comes with high-maintenance actuality.
Routine upkeep can be firmly within the “luxurious automotive” class. Oil adjustments commonly value over $250. A full set of tires, particularly the OEM run-flats, can exceed $1,200. Battery replacements, significantly in xDrive fashions with complicated techniques, can method $600 or extra.
What Actual Homeowners Are Saying
Many present and former homeowners of the G12 750i provide glowing evaluations of the driving expertise, however practically all of them ship the identical warning: purchase good, or remorse it later. One Bimmerpost consumer referred to as it the very best automotive they’ve ever owned, however famous they wouldn’t contact one exterior 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. For those who deal with it like a luxurious automotive and plan for long-term care, it’s going to possible serve you properly. However should you attempt to personal it like a funds commuter? Count on the surprising—and anticipate it to be costly.
Sensible Methods for Consumers
The important thing to purchasing a BMW 750i that received’t turn out to be a cash pit is all about due diligence. First, stick to 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 seems fairly aggressive in design in comparison with the tamer, extra 5 Collection-like pre-facelifted mannequin. That was one of many important complaints of that decade: 3, 5 and seven Collection vehicles look an excessive amount of alike.
Second, service historical past is non-negotiable. You need full documentation of normal oil adjustments, 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 tug the service data to see any points that have been mounted.
Third, prioritize Licensed Pre-Owned vehicles or these with an energetic prolonged guarantee. guarantee can prevent 1000’s if one of many complicated techniques fails. However as at all times, analysis the prolonged guarantee plans as a result of they don’t at all times cowl the costliest repairs.
Lastly, at all times put money into a pre-purchase inspection by a BMW specialist. These inspections are price their weight in gold with regards to recognizing air suspension sag, leaky valve covers, worn bushings, or lingering test 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 discount or a cash pit? The reality is, it may be both—relying totally on the way you method it. For these prepared to analysis, examine, and funds for maintenance, the 750i delivers a uniquely compelling mixture of efficiency, luxurious, and know-how that few different used vehicles 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.
However it’s not a automotive for everybody. It’s not a funds day by day driver, and it’s definitely not maintenance-free. In that sense, it punishes neglect—but it surely 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.
