Stylistically, there are minor changes to this car when compared to the 2005 model, which include a new headlight design and a revised tail. The latter isn’t radical, it still has the separate trunk lid and drooping rear fenders, but looks a bit more integrated. To my eyes, they are minor changes, but – judging from the reaction on the street – they have a major effect on most passers-by.

People would stop just short of the car at stop lights, take a long look at the rear, then creep forward until they could see the revised nose. Most approved of the changes – it is a less jarring and more integrated look in many ways – and smiled as they pulled alongside. It would be an understatement to say I was surprised by the amount of attention paid to what seemed like minor revisions.

The revisions continue with a new 4.8-liter engine that is more frugal and more powerful that its predecessor, a revised rear suspension, and interior trim changes. The last named are far less successful than the engine and suspension modifications, particularly since the wood on this particular vehicle looked like poorly stained balsa. The finish was a flat satin that did nothing to improve its looks, and everyone who sat in the car commented on its color and texture. However I have to wonder if years of overly shiny and highly polished automotive wood finishes hadn’t altered perceptions of what constitutes a luxury look for most people.

It must not be a universal concern as 7 Series sales were up 400 units in August 2005 versus the same month in 2004. Then again, the mild facelift and technical upgrades might have been enough to convince buyers to overlook the interior trim.