The last design of the BMW 7 Series from designer Chris Bangle was so poorly received that the term “Bangled” was coined to describe a car that was previously attractive but mangled in a redesign. Fortunately, the Bangle design is now a thing of the past. The design of the body is tighter, the light clusters are more attractive, and the trunk is sleeker. The new 750i – in short –looks the way a BMW should.

The iDrive is also being improved. Major complaints, like the complex structure of the menus and the clumsy operation, are gone and the new menus are arranged in a much more logical order. Preset buttons are now mounted on the dash in the 7 Series and, although climate control system has broken free of the iDrive, the somewhat clunky knob system is still there.

One thing that didn’t need any improvement was the experience of driving the 7 Series. Driving enthusiasts who want to customize their driving experience will enjoy the Dynamic Driving Control (DDC). The DDC is a complicated system that allows you to alter how aggressively the damper control and steering assist respond, the stiffness of the antiroll bar, the sensitivity of the throttle, shift calibration, and even stability control. Four modes are featured – Normal, Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus. Most drivers will choose the Normal setting and forget about it, but those few who want a more personalized driving experience will relish exploring the different settings.

In fact, for any driver who wants to feel intimately involved with their car, the 7 Series is the only choice. Yes, this class is highly competitive, and there are several other laudable choices including the Mercedes S Class, the Lexus LS 460, and the Audi A8. But now that the iDrive is being cleaned up, and the design has been de-Bangled, the 7 Series is definitely going to attract more positive attention.

Standard safety equipment on the 7 Series includes run flat tires, active head restraints, stability control, traction control, front seat side air bags, side curtain air bags, and front knee air bags. Anti-lock brakes are also standard and feature brake assist, brake drying, brake fade compensation, and a stand-by feature.

Driving the 7 Series is a marvelous experience. The engine moves the huge sedan without pause. Steering is tight and responsive for quick lane changes and you’ll find a tight turning circle. And, of course, you’d expect nothing less than luxury in the redesigned interior. The gear selector has moved back to the center console where it should be, although that complicated joy-stick-like contraption is still there to complicate the changing of gears unnecessarily.

In addition, the front seats can adjust to an almost infinite number of positions, so you can easily find the comfort you desire. Backseat room is satisfactory for most or you can choose the 750Li with its extended wheel base for even more room. Finally, you can make the backseat even more comfortable by choosing rear seat heating and cooling – another great option to be found on the BMW 7 Series.