The BMW 740Li (G12) represents a significant iteration of BMW’s flagship luxury sedan, produced from 2015 to 2019. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the long-wheelbase (Li) 7 Series lineup, it bridged the gap between the entry-level 730d and the high-performance 750i models. The “Li” designation signifies an extended wheelbase, primarily aimed at providing increased rear passenger legroom – a feature particularly valued in markets like China, where the car saw substantial sales. This variant combined a potent inline-six engine with BMW’s Steptronic eight-speed automatic transmission, offering a blend of performance and comfort geared towards executive transportation and discerning drivers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series Long (G12) |
| Type (Engine) | 740Li (326 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 9.1-9.7 l/100 km (25.8 – 24.2 US mpg, 31 – 29.1 UK mpg, 11 – 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.2-5.5 l/100 km (45.2 – 42.8 US mpg, 54.3 – 51.4 UK mpg, 19.2 – 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.6-7.0 l/100 km (35.6 – 33.6 US mpg, 42.8 – 40.4 UK mpg, 15.2 – 14.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 154-164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 184.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 254.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 326 Hp @ 5500-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 108.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1380-5000 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1380-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B58B30 |
| Engine displacement | 2998 cm3 (182.95 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.3 l (11.94 US qt | 9.94 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2445 kg (5390.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 675 kg (1488.12 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 515 l (18.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 78 l (20.61 US gal | 17.16 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5238 mm (206.22 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Height | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3210 mm (126.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1618 mm (63.7 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1646 mm (64.8 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1148 mm (45.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.24 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.8 m (41.99 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/60 R17 99Y; 245/50 R18; 245/45 R19; 275/40 R19; 245/40 R20; 275/35 R20; 245/35 R21; 275/30 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 19; 9.5J x 19; 8.5J x 20; 10J x 20; 8.5J x 21; 10J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 740Li lies BMW’s B58B30 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine is a cornerstone of BMW’s modern powertrain strategy, known for its smooth power delivery and efficiency. The ‘B58’ designation indicates its position within BMW’s modular engine family. It utilizes direct fuel injection, operating at a compression ratio of 11:1, and is equipped with a twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler. This configuration allows for both strong low-end torque and sustained power throughout the rev range. The engine produces 326 horsepower at 5500-6500 rpm and 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque between 1380 and 5000 rpm. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving the rear wheels. Paired with the B58 is BMW’s eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, offering smooth and responsive gear changes. This transmission features adaptive shift programs that adjust to the driver’s style and road conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 740Li delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. The combination of the inline-six engine and the eight-speed automatic provides ample power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. While not as overtly sporty as the 750i, the 740Li offers a respectable 0-60 mph time of around 5.3 seconds. The Steptronic transmission is programmed for smooth shifts, prioritizing comfort over aggressive gear changes. The long wheelbase contributes to a stable and composed ride, effectively absorbing road imperfections. Compared to the 730d, the 740Li offers a noticeable performance advantage, while remaining more fuel-efficient than the 750i’s V8. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel economy, with taller gears for highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 740Li came standard with a comprehensive suite of luxury features. Interior appointments typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, and a large infotainment display with iDrive controller. Standard safety features included anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Optional extras included features like massaging seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together.
Chassis & Braking
The G12 7 Series utilizes a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension features a double wishbone setup, while the rear employs an independent multi-link suspension. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and precise handling. The 740Li is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and stability control are standard features. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort, but still offers a degree of body control in corners. The long wheelbase and wider track contribute to the car’s stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 740Li was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined driving experience, luxurious interior, and powerful engine. Critics noted that it offered a compelling alternative to the 750i for buyers who didn’t require the ultimate in performance. Fuel economy was considered respectable for a large luxury sedan, and the 740Li generally received positive marks for reliability. Compared to the 730d, the 740Li offered a more engaging driving experience, while the 750i provided even greater performance at the expense of fuel economy.
Legacy
The B58 engine powering the 740Li has proven to be a robust and reliable unit. While long-term maintenance costs for a luxury vehicle like the 7 Series can be significant, the B58 engine is generally considered to be relatively trouble-free. On the used car market, the 740Li represents a good value proposition, offering a high level of luxury and performance at a more accessible price point than newer models. Its combination of comfort, technology, and driving dynamics continues to appeal to buyers seeking a premium luxury sedan.
