There’s no Euro NCAP crash test rating for the 7-Series (they don’t generally test cars this expensive), but protection is a big feature. All cars feature Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), driver and front passenger airbags plus head and side airbags front and back. The stiffened bodyshell has bonded seams while a bullet-proof high security model is also available featuring over a tonne of armour plating.

At more than five metres long it’s little surprise that there’s acres of space in the 7-Series and even the tallest of rear passengers will find legroom exceptional. Of course for even more luxury there’s the long wheelbase version which has even more cabin room. Boot space on either version is 500 litres which is plenty of room for a couple of large suitcases although the load area is quite narrow.