The BMW 740Ld xDrive, produced from 2020 to 2022, represents a significant iteration of the G12 generation of the 7 Series, specifically the long-wheelbase (L) variant following the 2019 facelift (LCI). This model combined a potent diesel engine with mild hybrid technology, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury aimed at the executive sedan market, particularly in Europe and Asia where diesel engines remained popular. The 740Ld occupied a middle ground in the 7 Series lineup, positioned between the entry-level 730d and the higher-performance 750i and M760i models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series Long (G12 LCI, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 740Ld (340 Hp) Mild Hybrid xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.5-6.7 l/100 km (36.2 – 35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5-4.7 l/100 km (52.3 – 50 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2-5.4 l/100 km (45.2 – 43.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 137-143 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | EURO 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm |
| Gross battery capacity | 0.528 kWh |
| Electric motor power | 11 Hp |
| Power | 340 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 1750-2250 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B57D30B |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.2 l (10.78 US qt | 8.97 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2670 kg (5886.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 670 kg (1477.1 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%) | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5260 mm (207.09 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Height | 1479 mm (58.23 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3210 mm (126.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1611 mm (63.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1640 mm (64.57 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.1 m (42.98 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor, All wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 245/50 R18 100Y |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 740Ld is the BMW B57D30B, a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine. This engine is a member of the modular BMW engine family, known for its robust construction and efficiency. The B57 features a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head, and a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system operating at extremely high pressures (2,500 bar) for optimized combustion. The engine utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger with variable geometry turbine (VGT) technology, enhancing responsiveness and minimizing turbo lag. Intercooling further improves intake air density. The mild hybrid system, a 48V setup, incorporates a 11 hp electric motor integrated into the drivetrain. This system provides a small power boost during acceleration, enables smoother start-stop operation, and allows for coasting with the engine shut off to improve fuel economy. The engine is paired with BMW’s 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, known for its quick and smooth shifts. This transmission is electronically controlled and adapts to driving style.
Driving Characteristics
The 740Ld xDrive delivers a refined and powerful driving experience. The 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque available from 1750-2250 rpm provides strong acceleration in all gears. While not as overtly sporty as the gasoline-powered 7 Series models, the 740Ld offers a 0-60 mph time of around 4.8 seconds, making it quite brisk. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing seamless gear changes and contributing to the car’s overall smoothness. The mild hybrid system is largely transparent to the driver, providing subtle assistance during acceleration and enhancing fuel efficiency. Compared to the 730d, the 740Ld offers noticeably more power and a more relaxed cruising experience. Compared to the 750i, it sacrifices some outright performance but gains significant fuel economy benefits.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 740Ld xDrive came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. Interior appointments typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a large touchscreen display was standard, offering navigation, connectivity, and vehicle settings control. Available options included rear-seat entertainment, massaging seats, upgraded leather trim, and various driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and parking assist. The long wheelbase provided generous rear legroom, making it a particularly appealing choice for chauffeur-driven executives.
Chassis & Braking
The 740Ld xDrive utilizes a sophisticated chassis design. It features double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, both incorporating air suspension with automatic self-leveling. This system provides a comfortable ride and allows the driver to adjust the ride height. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing strong and consistent stopping power. Electronic stability control (ESC) and anti-lock braking system (ABS) are standard safety features.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 740Ld xDrive was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined driving experience, powerful yet efficient engine, and luxurious interior. The combination of diesel power and mild hybrid technology was seen as a smart move, offering a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline engines. Fuel economy was a significant strength, with combined figures around 45 mpg. Compared to the 730d, the 740Ld offered a noticeable performance upgrade without a significant penalty in fuel economy. Reliability reports have been generally positive, although diesel engines can be more complex to maintain than gasoline engines.
Legacy
The BMW 740Ld xDrive represents a transitional period in BMW’s powertrain strategy, bridging the gap between traditional internal combustion engines and the increasing adoption of hybrid and electric technologies. The B57 engine has proven to be a durable and reliable unit, and well-maintained examples continue to hold their value in the used car market. While newer 7 Series models have moved towards greater electrification, the 740Ld remains a desirable option for those seeking a luxurious, efficient, and capable executive sedan.
