BMW 740i Spy shoot
We’ve got behind the wheel of BMW’s all-new 7-Series – months before it actually goes on sale. The pre-production model was so new, it still features all the anti-spy-photographer tape on its aluminium bodypanels, covering the big Merc S-Class-rivalling saloon’s lines. Luckily, we’ve seen it uncovered, too, and can report it’s quite a looker.
Flowing, sculpted panels are similar in themes to the current 7, but this is a much better-integrated and less-controversial thing. It looks long, wide, elegant, and is certainly attractive. Stretched-forward front wheels and a strong shoulderline give it character, while shapely lines play with the light. Perfect antithesis to the slightly clumsy current model.
BMW 740i
BMW has also been hard at work elsewhere. The interior has been thoroughly rethought, as have suspension systems, electronic aids, engines, even the highly controversial iDrive system. One key headline is that it’s the greenest luxury car you can buy: BMW directly compares the diesel, for example, with the much smaller Mercedes C-Class.
The 730d is one for the future, though. Despite 85 per cent of buyers expected to go diesel, we had to ‘make do’ with the 740i, using a 326bhp version of the 335i’s twin-turbo six-cylinder engine. If that’s not enough, there’s also a 407bhp 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8. So, to a secret test track, for a first taster of the revolutionary new 7…
Downsized the 740i engine maybe, but short-changed you are not. This twin-turbo engine is a gem in the 3-Series; with more power and torque, it seems just as impressive in the 7. OK, we were restricted to the test track, but that was still enough to appreciate smoothness, refinement and flexibility.
And speed, too. 60mph takes a scant 5.9 seconds and it steams on to a limiter at 155mph. The standard six-speed auto (with centre console lever, not the previous car’s column stalk) is a comparable class act, too. The turbos take little away from immediacy, and a huge spread of torque gives excellent flexibility.
Top-notch materials are a given, as is more space; the long-wheelbase version has colossal legroom, plus electrically-adjustable seats that are now air-conditioned, too. Oh, and an additional iDrive controller. Integrated design is also to be expected, despite the old car’s blocky appearance that, in places, seemed like a thought process that was still underway.
No, it’s the new 7′s much improved usability that’s really impressive. iDrive has been completely overhauled, now proving as straightforward as the most logical MP3 players to use. Controls and selectors are grouped sensibly, with less aversion to using buttons if buttons do a better job. Hi-tech, but intuitive. With hi-fi-style black panel displays for extra desirability.
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So good……