BMW 7 Series 740Li (A) First Drive Review
12 Nov 2012|16,408 views
Sheer Driving Pleasure - the notion that BMW has been harping on in recent years. Not known to many, however, is the marque's illustrious history in luxury car making. Dating back to 1950s, the 502 was the first post-war car to feature a V8 engine, which is also the first to feature an aluminium cast.
Year 1977 saw the first generation of the 7 Series. Since then, the 7er has always been regarded as the hallmark of the Bavarian carmaker. The latest 7er continues to showcase the marque's pursuit of technical excellence; both in terms of efficiency and driver aids, such as night vision, pedestrian recognition and lane assist functions.
Exterior
Long sweeping bonnet, stout front accompanied by a longer rear overhang has been the trademarks of luxury sedans for as long as we can remember. These stretched sedans have long acquired the 'towkay' image, although much of these on local shores are self driven.
The front apron now takes on a more squarish rake - more than just for looks alone, it enhances aero efficiency. The chrome bits though, are purely aesthetic, alongside the new fog lamps which look diminutive on the large facet. Overall, the 7er still manages to pull off a sense of dynamism, with part credits to its aggressive snout, which now loses 3 slabs on each side to give a larger, sportier visual perception.
Year 1977 saw the first generation of the 7 Series. Since then, the 7er has always been regarded as the hallmark of the Bavarian carmaker. The latest 7er continues to showcase the marque's pursuit of technical excellence; both in terms of efficiency and driver aids, such as night vision, pedestrian recognition and lane assist functions.
Exterior
Long sweeping bonnet, stout front accompanied by a longer rear overhang has been the trademarks of luxury sedans for as long as we can remember. These stretched sedans have long acquired the 'towkay' image, although much of these on local shores are self driven.
The front apron now takes on a more squarish rake - more than just for looks alone, it enhances aero efficiency. The chrome bits though, are purely aesthetic, alongside the new fog lamps which look diminutive on the large facet. Overall, the 7er still manages to pull off a sense of dynamism, with part credits to its aggressive snout, which now loses 3 slabs on each side to give a larger, sportier visual perception.
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The exterior makeovers are what BMW has garnered to put off stiffing competition, ranging from the highly decorated S Class, the superbly stylish XJ and not forgetting the Panamera which bears the prestigious sports car badge.
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Interior
Standing against the more premium carmakers, BMWs have always been able to pull off its own endearing appeal. Likewise, the flagship model of the Bavarian carmaker stood out with its vivid sporting intents, at the same time brimming with luxurious appointments and tech gadgets.
A whole array of driver aids is now available on the 7er, with a few that makes one wonder if the next generation would still require real driver inputs. The car can warn the driver of an imminent collision, send judders to the steering when it veers off course and even steer itself into the parking lot.
Replacing the conventional dials are TFT screens which sports different displays to match the varied drive settings - Sport, Comfort, Eco Pro, etc. While it dances to the moods, especially in Sports and Eco Pro where it emits a sensuous red and blue glow respectively, the screens fail to replicate the 3D realism feel of analogue gauges.
Interchangeable display alters driving moods according to variable drive settings
Standing against the more premium carmakers, BMWs have always been able to pull off its own endearing appeal. Likewise, the flagship model of the Bavarian carmaker stood out with its vivid sporting intents, at the same time brimming with luxurious appointments and tech gadgets.
A whole array of driver aids is now available on the 7er, with a few that makes one wonder if the next generation would still require real driver inputs. The car can warn the driver of an imminent collision, send judders to the steering when it veers off course and even steer itself into the parking lot.
Replacing the conventional dials are TFT screens which sports different displays to match the varied drive settings - Sport, Comfort, Eco Pro, etc. While it dances to the moods, especially in Sports and Eco Pro where it emits a sensuous red and blue glow respectively, the screens fail to replicate the 3D realism feel of analogue gauges.
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Trims and settings are of top-notch quality, which comes as no surprise as excellence are always expected from a car of such calibre. Useful buttons and switches are positioned at close range, making it easily reachable for the driver and passengers.
Arguably, it is in the rear quarters that the 7er experience truly shines. The long wheelbase (LWB) variant has all one would ever need in a car, with sumptuous allowances that put even the plus size adults at ease. The 740Li which we sampled also has reclining seats which allows occupants to commute 'like a boss'.
One could not have asked for more from the rear quarters of the LWB 7er
Arguably, it is in the rear quarters that the 7er experience truly shines. The long wheelbase (LWB) variant has all one would ever need in a car, with sumptuous allowances that put even the plus size adults at ease. The 740Li which we sampled also has reclining seats which allows occupants to commute 'like a boss'.
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The Drive
The 7 Series has long been regarded as the athlete of the luxury sedan segment, a title that not only hints at the potency of the drivetrain, but also gives credit to the dynamic driving experience which the car can offer.
Starring the enhancements list is the revamped 3.0-litre 6-cylinder engine, featuring the marque's force induction and variable valve lift technologies. The result is spectacular, promising a significant 21 percent increment in efficiency figures. In addition, the force fed engine delivers a creamy torque, which is delicious for spirited drives, although it comes with a slight power lag at lower engine revs.
Tasked to put the power through the wheels is the new 8-speed Steptronic gearbox. Gaining two extra ratios certainly flushes out the transitions, and even when left to its own devices, delivers smooth cog swops - another nod to its luxurious credentials.
Also known as the driver's mood selector
The 7 Series has long been regarded as the athlete of the luxury sedan segment, a title that not only hints at the potency of the drivetrain, but also gives credit to the dynamic driving experience which the car can offer.
Starring the enhancements list is the revamped 3.0-litre 6-cylinder engine, featuring the marque's force induction and variable valve lift technologies. The result is spectacular, promising a significant 21 percent increment in efficiency figures. In addition, the force fed engine delivers a creamy torque, which is delicious for spirited drives, although it comes with a slight power lag at lower engine revs.
Tasked to put the power through the wheels is the new 8-speed Steptronic gearbox. Gaining two extra ratios certainly flushes out the transitions, and even when left to its own devices, delivers smooth cog swops - another nod to its luxurious credentials.
Another debut in the 7er is the variable drive select which governs the chassis and powerplant setup for a spirited or fuel-saving drive. Interchanging between 'Sport' and 'Comfort +' modes bring about a more perceivable difference - the former tightens the chassis and tunes the throttle for a quicker response, which makes the 7er a more intuitive drive. The latter inevitably makes the car feels a tad sloppy, but will no doubt put the smile on the occupants, as the chassis takes any tarmac imperfection well in its stride.
This no doubt has become a common recipe in BMW cars. The system offers the flexibility to fine tune the characteristics of the car to match the driver’s mood at any point of time.
Conclusion
The 7 Series has once again demonstrated its top of the range calibre - immense luxury and dynamic drive, which holds true since the debut of the model. This time round, the latest 7er has taken a softer approach, putting efficiency as the foremost criteria.
In truth, the 7er has edged closer to become the real world's James Bond car. One that entails a variety of characters, and most importantly grants a majestic entrance.
This no doubt has become a common recipe in BMW cars. The system offers the flexibility to fine tune the characteristics of the car to match the driver’s mood at any point of time.
Conclusion
The 7 Series has once again demonstrated its top of the range calibre - immense luxury and dynamic drive, which holds true since the debut of the model. This time round, the latest 7er has taken a softer approach, putting efficiency as the foremost criteria.
In truth, the 7er has edged closer to become the real world's James Bond car. One that entails a variety of characters, and most importantly grants a majestic entrance.
Sheer Driving Pleasure - the notion that BMW has been harping on in recent years. Not known to many, however, is the marque's illustrious history in luxury car making. Dating back to 1950s, the 502 was the first post-war car to feature a V8 engine, which is also the first to feature an aluminium cast.
Year 1977 saw the first generation of the 7 Series. Since then, the 7er has always been regarded as the hallmark of the Bavarian carmaker. The latest 7er continues to showcase the marque's pursuit of technical excellence; both in terms of efficiency and driver aids, such as night vision, pedestrian recognition and lane assist functions.
Exterior
Long sweeping bonnet, stout front accompanied by a longer rear overhang has been the trademarks of luxury sedans for as long as we can remember. These stretched sedans have long acquired the 'towkay' image, although much of these on local shores are self driven.
The front apron now takes on a more squarish rake - more than just for looks alone, it enhances aero efficiency. The chrome bits though, are purely aesthetic, alongside the new fog lamps which look diminutive on the large facet. Overall, the 7er still manages to pull off a sense of dynamism, with part credits to its aggressive snout, which now loses 3 slabs on each side to give a larger, sportier visual perception.
Year 1977 saw the first generation of the 7 Series. Since then, the 7er has always been regarded as the hallmark of the Bavarian carmaker. The latest 7er continues to showcase the marque's pursuit of technical excellence; both in terms of efficiency and driver aids, such as night vision, pedestrian recognition and lane assist functions.
Exterior
Long sweeping bonnet, stout front accompanied by a longer rear overhang has been the trademarks of luxury sedans for as long as we can remember. These stretched sedans have long acquired the 'towkay' image, although much of these on local shores are self driven.
The front apron now takes on a more squarish rake - more than just for looks alone, it enhances aero efficiency. The chrome bits though, are purely aesthetic, alongside the new fog lamps which look diminutive on the large facet. Overall, the 7er still manages to pull off a sense of dynamism, with part credits to its aggressive snout, which now loses 3 slabs on each side to give a larger, sportier visual perception.
The exterior makeovers are what BMW has garnered to put off stiffing competition, ranging from the highly decorated S Class, the superbly stylish XJ and not forgetting the Panamera which bears the prestigious sports car badge.
Interior
Standing against the more premium carmakers, BMWs have always been able to pull off its own endearing appeal. Likewise, the flagship model of the Bavarian carmaker stood out with its vivid sporting intents, at the same time brimming with luxurious appointments and tech gadgets.
A whole array of driver aids is now available on the 7er, with a few that makes one wonder if the next generation would still require real driver inputs. The car can warn the driver of an imminent collision, send judders to the steering when it veers off course and even steer itself into the parking lot.
Replacing the conventional dials are TFT screens which sports different displays to match the varied drive settings - Sport, Comfort, Eco Pro, etc. While it dances to the moods, especially in Sports and Eco Pro where it emits a sensuous red and blue glow respectively, the screens fail to replicate the 3D realism feel of analogue gauges.
Standing against the more premium carmakers, BMWs have always been able to pull off its own endearing appeal. Likewise, the flagship model of the Bavarian carmaker stood out with its vivid sporting intents, at the same time brimming with luxurious appointments and tech gadgets.
A whole array of driver aids is now available on the 7er, with a few that makes one wonder if the next generation would still require real driver inputs. The car can warn the driver of an imminent collision, send judders to the steering when it veers off course and even steer itself into the parking lot.
Replacing the conventional dials are TFT screens which sports different displays to match the varied drive settings - Sport, Comfort, Eco Pro, etc. While it dances to the moods, especially in Sports and Eco Pro where it emits a sensuous red and blue glow respectively, the screens fail to replicate the 3D realism feel of analogue gauges.
Trims and settings are of top-notch quality, which comes as no surprise as excellence are always expected from a car of such calibre. Useful buttons and switches are positioned at close range, making it easily reachable for the driver and passengers.
Arguably, it is in the rear quarters that the 7er experience truly shines. The long wheelbase (LWB) variant has all one would ever need in a car, with sumptuous allowances that put even the plus size adults at ease. The 740Li which we sampled also has reclining seats which allows occupants to commute 'like a boss'.
Arguably, it is in the rear quarters that the 7er experience truly shines. The long wheelbase (LWB) variant has all one would ever need in a car, with sumptuous allowances that put even the plus size adults at ease. The 740Li which we sampled also has reclining seats which allows occupants to commute 'like a boss'.
The Drive
The 7 Series has long been regarded as the athlete of the luxury sedan segment, a title that not only hints at the potency of the drivetrain, but also gives credit to the dynamic driving experience which the car can offer.
Starring the enhancements list is the revamped 3.0-litre 6-cylinder engine, featuring the marque's force induction and variable valve lift technologies. The result is spectacular, promising a significant 21 percent increment in efficiency figures. In addition, the force fed engine delivers a creamy torque, which is delicious for spirited drives, although it comes with a slight power lag at lower engine revs.
Tasked to put the power through the wheels is the new 8-speed Steptronic gearbox. Gaining two extra ratios certainly flushes out the transitions, and even when left to its own devices, delivers smooth cog swops - another nod to its luxurious credentials.
The 7 Series has long been regarded as the athlete of the luxury sedan segment, a title that not only hints at the potency of the drivetrain, but also gives credit to the dynamic driving experience which the car can offer.
Starring the enhancements list is the revamped 3.0-litre 6-cylinder engine, featuring the marque's force induction and variable valve lift technologies. The result is spectacular, promising a significant 21 percent increment in efficiency figures. In addition, the force fed engine delivers a creamy torque, which is delicious for spirited drives, although it comes with a slight power lag at lower engine revs.
Tasked to put the power through the wheels is the new 8-speed Steptronic gearbox. Gaining two extra ratios certainly flushes out the transitions, and even when left to its own devices, delivers smooth cog swops - another nod to its luxurious credentials.
Another debut in the 7er is the variable drive select which governs the chassis and powerplant setup for a spirited or fuel-saving drive. Interchanging between 'Sport' and 'Comfort +' modes bring about a more perceivable difference - the former tightens the chassis and tunes the throttle for a quicker response, which makes the 7er a more intuitive drive. The latter inevitably makes the car feels a tad sloppy, but will no doubt put the smile on the occupants, as the chassis takes any tarmac imperfection well in its stride.
This no doubt has become a common recipe in BMW cars. The system offers the flexibility to fine tune the characteristics of the car to match the driver’s mood at any point of time.
Conclusion
The 7 Series has once again demonstrated its top of the range calibre - immense luxury and dynamic drive, which holds true since the debut of the model. This time round, the latest 7er has taken a softer approach, putting efficiency as the foremost criteria.
In truth, the 7er has edged closer to become the real world's James Bond car. One that entails a variety of characters, and most importantly grants a majestic entrance.
This no doubt has become a common recipe in BMW cars. The system offers the flexibility to fine tune the characteristics of the car to match the driver’s mood at any point of time.
Conclusion
The 7 Series has once again demonstrated its top of the range calibre - immense luxury and dynamic drive, which holds true since the debut of the model. This time round, the latest 7er has taken a softer approach, putting efficiency as the foremost criteria.
In truth, the 7er has edged closer to become the real world's James Bond car. One that entails a variety of characters, and most importantly grants a majestic entrance.
Car Information
BMW 7 Series 740Li (A)
CAT B|Petrol|12.7km/L
Horsepower
235kW (315 bhp)
Torque
450 Nm
Acceleration
5.7sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used BMW 7 Series
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