The BMW 750i xDrive, produced from 2012 to 2015 as part of the F01 LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) facelift of the sixth-generation 7 Series, represented the performance pinnacle of the lineup below the ultra-luxury V12-powered 760Li. Positioned as the flagship for those desiring substantial power and all-weather capability, the 750i xDrive combined a potent twin-turbocharged V8 engine with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system and a sophisticated eight-speed automatic transmission. This iteration of the 7 Series aimed to blend luxurious comfort with engaging driving dynamics, appealing to buyers who wanted a high-performance luxury sedan without sacrificing practicality or refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series (F01 LCI, facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 750i (450 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.6 kg/Hp, 216.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 313.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 450 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 650 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm (479.42 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N63B44B |
| Engine displacement | 4395 cm3 (268.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.5 l (14.27 US qt | 11.88 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2075 kg (4574.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2660 kg (5864.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 585 kg (1289.7 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5079 mm (199.96 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Height | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3070 mm (120.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1611 mm (63.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 245/50 R18 100Y |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 750i xDrive was the N63B44B engine, a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8. This engine represented a significant advancement in BMW’s powertrain technology. It featured direct fuel injection, a variable valve timing system (Double-VANOS), and variable valve lift (Valvetronic) to optimize efficiency and performance. The twin turbochargers, positioned within the V of the engine, minimized turbo lag and provided a broad, flat torque curve. The engine produced 450 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a substantial 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque available from 2,000 to 4,500 rpm. This power was channeled through an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, known for its smooth and quick shifts. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system intelligently distributed power between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability in all conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 750i xDrive delivered a markedly different driving experience compared to the 730d or 740i models. The abundance of torque from the twin-turbo V8 provided effortless acceleration, making overtaking and highway cruising a breeze. The 0-60 mph sprint was dispatched in around 4.4 seconds, a figure that placed it firmly in performance sedan territory. While the eight-speed automatic was generally smooth, it could occasionally feel hesitant in lower gears during aggressive driving. The xDrive system provided excellent grip, particularly in inclement weather, inspiring confidence. However, some drivers noted a slight increase in steering feel compared to rear-wheel-drive 7 Series models. The suspension, tuned for comfort, effectively absorbed road imperfections, but the car’s weight was noticeable during spirited cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 750i xDrive came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. Leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated front seats, a premium sound system, a navigation system, and a rear-view camera were all included as standard. Optional extras included features like massaging seats, a panoramic sunroof, active steering, and a head-up display. The interior trim could be customized with various wood veneers and metallic accents. The 750i xDrive typically featured unique exterior styling cues, such as larger wheels and distinctive badging, to differentiate it from lower-trim models.
Chassis & Braking
The F01 LCI 7 Series utilized a sophisticated chassis design featuring a double-wishbone front suspension and an integral-IV multi-link rear suspension. The 750i xDrive benefited from slightly stiffer spring rates and dampers compared to the standard 7 Series to manage the increased weight and power. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems worked in conjunction to enhance safety and stability. The 750i xDrive typically featured larger brake rotors and calipers than the lower-trim models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 750i xDrive was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. However, some reviewers noted the car’s high price tag and complex technology. Compared to the 740i, the 750i xDrive offered significantly more performance and a more luxurious experience, but at a substantial cost premium. The 730d, while more fuel-efficient, lacked the outright power and prestige of the 750i xDrive. Fuel economy, while respectable for a V8-powered luxury sedan, was not a strong point, averaging around 25.3 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The N63B44B engine, while initially plagued by some cooling system issues that were addressed through software updates and revised components, proved to be a robust and reliable powerplant when properly maintained. The 750i xDrive, while not as common as the 740i or 730d, has maintained a loyal following among enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of performance and luxury. On the used car market, well-maintained examples command a premium price. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and cooling system inspections, is crucial to ensure the long-term reliability of this sophisticated vehicle. The F01 LCI 750i xDrive represents a high point in BMW’s engineering prowess, offering a compelling combination of power, luxury, and technology.
