BMW 7-Series

Love it or hate it, when it was launched the 7-Series' looks split opinion compared to its sober predecessor. A 2005 facelift has seen the looks toned down, along with improvements to engines and suspension. Styling aside, it's a real driver's car, with a range of refined powerplants and pleasing handling. BMW's i-Drive system is a joystick, a button and a dial all rolled into one and allows the driver to control functions and modify settings using one interface. A great gadget, but rather intimidating for technophobes. A fully armoured High Security model is also available for those with deep enough pockets (it retails at around £250,000) and a fear of assassination.

SE carbon exclusive edition, SPORT, Li

Pretty much all of the usual options on everyday cars come as standard on this luxury liner, but BMW have still reserved some necessary extras (at this level anyway) like sat-nav and CD changers to get you reaching yet deeper into your pocket. All get parking aid, cruise control, dual zone climate control and leather and wood trim. All post facelift models get Bi-Xenon headlamps and V8 engined cars get heated front seats, sun roof and front lumbar support.

730D SPORT