2017 BMW 7-Series vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

The BMW 7-Series keeps close with its peer set, which includes the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Audi A8.

But both of those models are quite different.

The S-Class remains the segment leader for comfort, tech—and likely prestige.

The Audi A8 is a swift and stable car, with a light-and-lean driving feel translating to the driver's seat; yet the A8 is starting to look dated in some respects and it's due to be replaced next year.

The Jaguar XJ is a very attractive alternative; it satisfies all your aesthetic expectations although it could come up short on functionality.

Finally, the Porsche Panamera isn't a sports car, but its sports-car-like snout might be just enough to convince others that you're driving something racier than a sedan; the Panemera is very fast in Turbo S guise.

The Aston Martin Rapide is one unusual left-field pick in this class, although it's a particularly stunning one from the outside; it carries cachet in a way that's hard to compete with—although its compromised rear seat and alone may be enough of a disqualifier.