The BMW 7 Series is a full-size luxury sedan produced by the German automaker BMW since 1977. It is the successor to the BMW E3 "New Six" sedan and is currently in its sixth generation.
The 7 Series is BMW's flagship car and is only available in a sedan bodystyle (including long wheelbase and limousine models). It traditionally introduces technologies and exterior design themes before they trickle down to other models in BMW's lineup.
The fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series consists of the BMW F01 (sedan version) and BMW F02 (long-wheelbase sedan version) full-size luxury sedans. The F01/F02 generation was produced from 2008 to 2015 and is often collectively referred to as the F01.
The car's exterior was designed by Lebanese automotive designer Karim Habib. The styling retained some elements from its E65 7 Series predecessor but was a less controversial approach. The headlamps were reminiscent to the E65 but were smaller and sleeker. The car incorporated a wider and bigger kidney grille that went deeper into the front apron for a more aggressive appearance. The F01 7 Series was larger than its predecessor adding 1.7 in (43.2 mm) to the overall length and 3.2 in (81.3 mm) to the wheelbase while gaining more weight.