The BMW 750Li xDrive, part of the F02 Long wheelbase (LCI) facelift generation of the 7 Series produced from 2012 to 2015, represented the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the BMW flagship sedan range. Positioned as a high-end variant, the 750Li offered a significant step up in power and features compared to the 740Li and 730Li models. The “Li” designation signifies the long-wheelbase version, primarily aimed at markets like China where rear passenger space is highly valued, but also available and popular in the United States. This model combined a potent twin-turbocharged V8 engine with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, delivering a refined yet exhilarating driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series Long (F02 LCI, facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 750Li (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 | 13.2 l/100 km (17.8 US mpg, 21.4 UK mpg, 7.6 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 | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 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 | 4.7 kg/Hp, 213.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 308.1 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 | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2695 kg (5941.46 lbs.) |
| Max load | 585 kg (1289.7 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5219 mm (205.47 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Height | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3210 mm (126.38 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 750Li xDrive is the N63B44B engine, a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8. This engine represents a significant advancement in BMW’s powertrain technology. It features direct fuel injection, a valvetrain with Double-VANOS (variable valve timing and lift), and twin turbochargers positioned within the V-shaped engine bank. This “hot-vee” configuration minimizes turbo lag and improves responsiveness. The engine produces 450 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a substantial 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque available from 2,000 to 4,500 rpm. The eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission is a crucial component, offering smooth and rapid gear changes. It’s programmed for both comfort and performance, adapting to the driver’s style. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability in all weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 750Li xDrive delivers a driving experience that balances luxury and performance. The abundant torque from the twin-turbo V8 provides effortless acceleration, with 0-60 mph times around 4.4 seconds. The eight-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, contributing to responsive performance. Compared to the 740Li (with its turbocharged inline-six), the 750Li offers a more substantial power surge and a more refined engine note. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the 750Li provides a confident and composed ride, thanks to its sophisticated suspension and xDrive system. The long wheelbase contributes to a smooth and comfortable ride, particularly on highway journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 750Li xDrive came generously equipped as standard. Typical features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, a navigation system, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Optional extras were plentiful, including massaging seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, a head-up display, and various driver-assistance technologies like active cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The interior trim could be customized with a range of wood veneers and metallic accents. The LCI facelift brought subtle styling updates, including revised headlights and taillights, as well as interior enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The 750Li xDrive features a double-wishbone front suspension and an integral-arm rear suspension, optimized for both comfort and handling. Adaptive dampers were standard, allowing the driver to adjust the suspension firmness. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), and traction control are standard safety features. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with Servotronic power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 750Li xDrive was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. However, some reviewers noted that the car’s size and weight could make it feel less agile than some competitors. Fuel economy, while respectable for a V8-powered luxury sedan, was not a strong point. Compared to the 740Li, the 750Li offered a significant performance upgrade but came at a higher price. The 750Li also competed with other flagship sedans from Mercedes-Benz (S-Class) and Audi (A8), each offering its own unique blend of luxury and performance.
Legacy
The N63B44B engine, while powerful, has been known to require careful maintenance, particularly regarding cooling system components and turbocharger health. Early versions of the engine were prone to oil leaks and cooling system failures, but these issues were largely addressed in later revisions. Despite these potential issues, the 750Li xDrive remains a desirable used car, offering a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and technology. Well-maintained examples continue to command a premium price in the used car market, appealing to buyers who appreciate a high-end driving experience.
