BMW 7 Series put through the elements in Borobudur

Borobudur - a name which may ring a bell for those who are well versed with the geographics of Central Java, or acquainted with Buddhist relics. Located in Central Java, Indonesia, Borobudur is one of the greatest Buddhist monuments in the World. 

And it was one of our destinations for the BMW drive event, which we got to put the new 7 Series on a drive through the Central Java region. 

So how do the two subjects add together? On first sight, both definitely seem to be at odds. One is an age old relic and the other is the latest technical showcase from a renowned German carmaker. Put together, however, the experience is nothing short of enthralling. 

For starters, the latest 7er has a charismatic presence, helped by the short front overhang and long bonnet. The facelift sees revision to the daytime running lamps, front apron, as well as reduced slabs in the iconic kidney grille - all which helps to portray a sharper, more dynamic looking facet. The revised bumper also improves aerodynamics of the car. Against the majestic backdrop, the 7er has seemingly shrunk by a huge bit. No doubt the larger dimensions require a tad more concentration when piloting through the tight roads, but with the well assisted steering and luxuriously appointed cabin, it never feels taxing.

Starring the facelift is the revamped powerplants, which boasts efficiency enhancement of up to 21 percent. Under the hood of the 740Li is the latest 3.0-litre 6-cylinder engine, showcasing an array of the marque's technologies, such as BMW TwinPower Turbo featuring twin-scroll turbocharging, Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing and Valvetronic variable valve timing. Also present on the trip is the 730Ld - the world's most efficient luxury sedan. The diesel powerplant is now 18 percent more efficient than before, and has an average CO2 emission of only 148g/km.

With 320bhp and 450Nm on tap, the 740Li never feels sloppy, delivering the power in a timely manner when the occasion calls for it. While we did not get to stretch the engines to unearth the hidden potentials, the 740Li proved to be a potent city cruiser (arguable the natural habitat for most 7ers), launching from lights and engaging in overtaking manoeuvres with absolute ease.

Cruising capabilities of the 7er is further honed by the new 8-speed Steptronic transmission. The two extra ratios certainly help to put the workhorse at greater ease, with more flexibility for both spirited sprints through the traffic, and serene driving on the city side. 

Arguably, a car such as the 7 Series urges to be enjoyed as much at the rear bench as the helm's seat. Blessed by the extra legroom of the Li (BMW's Long Wheelbase variants), one certainly feels like a royalty in commute. From the cabin, external events seemed to be hushed and put far from harm - as if life inside the 7er was another world on itself.

While the varied conditions in Indonesia may set some pondering of its relevancy to local motoring, the trip has let us on a whole new insight on the capabilities of the 7er, not to mention to have a go at the gadgetry niceties which would be less of use on local grounds - for instance the night vision system and adaptive high beam assistant with anti-dazzle function. Jump to the video below to catch a glimpse of how it works.

When it comes to standing above the crowd it is not just about fitting the bill, but being able to perform beyond what is required.