The BMW 740Li xDrive, part of the G12 Long wheelbase facelift (LCI) generation of the 7 Series produced from April 2019 to 2022, represents a significant offering in the luxury sedan segment. Positioned as a mid-range variant within the 7 Series lineup, it bridged the gap between the entry-level 730d and the high-performance M760i. 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 xDrive all-wheel-drive system and a smooth-shifting Steptronic automatic transmission, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series Long (G12 LCI, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 740Li (335 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | April, 2019 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 4-5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 8.4-8.7 l/100 km (28 – 27 US mpg, 33.6 – 32.5 UK mpg, 11.9 – 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 168.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 225 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 335 Hp @ 5500-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 111.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 447 Nm @ 1500-5200 rpm (329.69 lb.-ft. @ 1500-5200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B58B30M1 |
| 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 |
| Valvetrain | VALVETRONIC, Double-VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1987 kg (4380.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2555 kg (5632.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 568 kg (1252.23 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 515 l (18.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 78 l (20.61 US gal | 17.16 UK gal) |
| Length | 5267 mm (207.36 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2169 mm (85.39 in.) |
| Height | 1479 mm (58.23 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3210 mm (126.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1608 mm (63.31 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1641 mm (64.61 in.) |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
INTRODUCTION
The 740Li xDrive, introduced with the LCI update in 2019, built upon the foundation of the G12 7 Series, which debuted in 2015. The LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) brought refreshed styling, updated technology, and refined powertrain options. The 740Li specifically targeted buyers seeking a luxurious and technologically advanced sedan with a balance of performance and efficiency. Its extended wheelbase catered to the demand for increased rear passenger space, particularly in markets where being chauffeured is common. It sat comfortably in the middle of the 7 Series range, offering a step up from the diesel-powered 730d and a more accessible price point than the flagship V12-powered M760i.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 740Li xDrive lies BMW’s B58B30M1 inline-six engine. This 3.0-liter turbocharged engine is a cornerstone of BMW’s modern powertrain lineup, known for its smooth power delivery and efficiency. The B58 utilizes direct fuel injection, operating at a compression ratio of 11:1, and is equipped with BMW’s VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing systems. These technologies optimize engine breathing for improved performance and fuel economy. The single twin-scroll turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a substantial boost in power and torque. The engine produces 335 horsepower at 5500-6500 rpm and 447 Nm (329.69 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 5200 rpm.
Power is transmitted to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. The Steptronic transmission offers both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The xDrive system intelligently distributes torque between the front and rear axles based on driving conditions, enhancing traction and stability. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned to provide a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency, with a focus on smooth and seamless shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 740Li xDrive delivers a refined and composed driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of BMW’s other models, it offers ample power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. The 4.8-second 0-60 mph acceleration time is respectable for a large luxury sedan. The inline-six engine provides a linear power delivery, with minimal turbo lag. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a relaxed driving experience. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions. Compared to the 730d, the 740Li offers significantly more power and a more responsive feel. However, it doesn’t quite match the outright performance of the M760i, which boasts a significantly more powerful V12 engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 740Li xDrive came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. The infotainment system featured a large touchscreen display with BMW’s iDrive controller. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras included massaging front seats, rear-seat entertainment systems, and a variety of interior trim options. The extended wheelbase provided generous rear passenger legroom, making it a comfortable choice for those frequently transported in the back.
Chassis & Braking
The 7 Series G12 utilizes a sophisticated chassis design featuring double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. Both ends are equipped with air suspension, which provides a smooth and comfortable ride. The air suspension can also be adjusted to raise or lower the vehicle’s ride height, improving comfort or providing additional ground clearance. The 740Li xDrive is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 740Li xDrive was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and potent powertrain. Critics noted that the B58 engine provided a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. Compared to the 730d, the 740Li offered a noticeable improvement in performance, while still maintaining reasonable fuel economy. However, some critics found the steering to be somewhat numb and lacking in feel. The 740Li’s fuel economy figures were competitive within the luxury sedan segment, averaging around 23.1 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The B58 engine has proven to be a remarkably reliable and durable powerplant. The 740Li xDrive, with its combination of a robust engine, smooth transmission, and luxurious features, has maintained a strong reputation in the used car market. While maintenance costs for a vehicle of this complexity can be higher than for more mainstream models, the B58 engine is generally considered to be relatively trouble-free. The G12 7 Series, and the 740Li variant in particular, represents a high point in BMW’s luxury sedan offerings, blending technology, comfort, and performance in a compelling package.
