The BMW 740Li, part of the long-wheelbase (F02) generation of the 7 Series, was produced from 2008 to 2011. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the 7 Series lineup, it catered to buyers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and space. The “Li” designation signifies the extended wheelbase, primarily aimed at the Chinese market where rear passenger comfort is highly valued, but also available in other regions. This variant combined a potent 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with BMW’s Steptronic automatic transmission, offering a refined driving experience and strong acceleration. It served as a bridge between the entry-level 730Li and the flagship 750Li models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series Long (F02) |
| Type (Engine) | 740Li (326 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14 l/100 km (16.8 US mpg, 20.2 UK mpg, 7.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 172 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 237.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 326 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 109.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 4500 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N54B30A |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.6 mm (3.53 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1895 kg (4177.76 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2525 kg (5566.67 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 UK gal) |
| Length | 5212 mm (205.2 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Height | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3210 mm (126.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1611 mm (63.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/50 R18 100Y RSC |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18EH2+IS30 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 740Li is BMW’s N54B30A engine, a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine is notable for its combination of a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection, technologies that contribute to both its power output and efficiency. The direct injection system precisely meters fuel into the combustion chambers, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The twin-scroll turbocharger minimizes turbo lag, providing a more responsive throttle feel. The engine produces 326 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. This power is delivered to the rear wheels through a six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. The Steptronic transmission offers both fully automatic operation and the ability for the driver to manually shift gears, providing a degree of control.
Driving Characteristics
The 740Li’s driving experience is characterized by a smooth and refined ride. The extended wheelbase contributes to a more comfortable experience, particularly for rear passengers. The turbocharged inline-six provides ample power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. While not as overtly sporty as the 750Li with its V8 engine, the 740Li offers a respectable 0-60 mph time of around 5.7 seconds. The Steptronic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, although some drivers may find it less engaging than a manual gearbox. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance of performance and fuel economy, prioritizing comfortable cruising over outright acceleration. Compared to the 730Li, the 740Li offers a significant performance upgrade, while remaining more economical than the 750Li.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 740Li came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. These included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and a navigation system. Standard safety features included ABS, traction control, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Optional extras included features such as rear-seat entertainment, massaging seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. Interior trim options allowed buyers to personalize the cabin with various wood veneers and metallic accents. The dashboard layout was typical of BMW at the time, with a driver-focused design and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The 740Li utilizes a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is a hydraulic rack-and-pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The 740Li typically came equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels and tires sized 245/50 R18.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 740Li was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted that the Steptronic transmission could feel somewhat detached, and that the car lacked the ultimate sporting character of some of its rivals. In terms of fuel economy, the 740Li offered a reasonable compromise between performance and efficiency, achieving around 23.5 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the 730Li, the 740Li offered a significant performance boost, while the 750Li provided even more power but at the expense of fuel economy.
Legacy
The N54 engine, while powerful, is known to require diligent maintenance. Common issues include carbon buildup on the intake valves, fuel injector problems, and potential turbocharger wear. The Steptronic transmission is generally reliable, but can require servicing over time. Despite these potential issues, the 740Li remains a desirable used car, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and space at a relatively affordable price point. Its long wheelbase and comfortable interior make it a particularly appealing option for those seeking a spacious and refined luxury sedan. Today, well-maintained examples are sought after by enthusiasts and collectors alike.
