The BMW 7-Series E65 (2001-2005), E66 (2005-2006), E67 (not produced) and E68 (not produced) were a range of luxury sedans produced by German automaker BMW. The E65/E66 was the fourth generation of the 7-Series, replacing the E38.
Design and Features
The E65/E66 featured a sleek, aerodynamic design with a long hood, short rear deck, and sweeping lines. Its exterior dimensions were 207.9 in (528 cm) long, 74.8 in (190 cm) wide, and 57.7 in (147 cm) tall. The interior was characterized by premium materials, such as leather upholstery, wood trim, and aluminum accents.
The E65/E66 boasted an extensive list of standard features, including:
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Power moonroof
- Navigation system with voice command and real-time traffic updates
- Premium audio system with 14 speakers and a 300-watt amplifier
- Heated front seats with memory settings
Engine Options
The E65/E66 offered a range of engine options, including:
- V8 petrol engines:
- 4.5L M62 (225 kW/306 HP)
- 4.7L M62 (253 kW/342 HP)
- Diesel engines:
Transmission and Drivetrain
The E65/E66 featured a range of transmission options, including:
- 5-speed automatic
- 6-speed SMG (Steptronic Manual Gearbox)
- Rear-wheel drive as standard; all-wheel drive (xDrive) available on some models
Safety Features
The E65/E66 boasted an impressive array of safety features, including:
- Electronic stability control with anti-skid system
- Brake assist
- Front and side airbags
- Side curtain airbags
- Isofix child seat mounting points
Other Notable Features
The E65/E66 was renowned for its exceptional ride quality, thanks to the use of aluminum-intensive construction and advanced suspension systems.
In addition, the E65/E66 offered a range of convenience features, such as:
- Keyless entry with push-button start
- Power door closure
- Heated steering wheel
Model Variants
The E65/E66 was produced in various model variants, including:
- 745i (2001-2005)
- 750iL (2002-2005)
- 745Li (2004-2006)
- Alpina B7 S (2005-2008)
Recall and Discontinuation
The E65/E66 suffered from several recalls, primarily related to issues with the transmission system. The model range was eventually discontinued in 2008, replaced by the F01/F02 7-Series.
Throughout its production run, the E65/E66 established itself as a benchmark for luxury sedans, praised for its exceptional performance, refinement, and feature-packed interior.
