The BMW 7 Series Long (G12) M760Li xDrive Steptronic, produced from 2016 to 2017, represents the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the G12 generation of BMW’s flagship sedan. Positioned as the range-topping model, the M760Li distinguished itself with a powerful V12 engine and all-wheel drive, catering to buyers seeking uncompromising performance and a supremely comfortable driving experience. The “Long” designation indicates an extended wheelbase, providing significantly more rear passenger legroom, a feature particularly valued in markets like China and the Middle East, but also offered to discerning American customers. This variant aimed to compete directly with ultra-luxury sedans from Mercedes-Benz and Audi, offering a blend of sporting dynamics and opulent refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series Long (G12) |
| Type | M760Li (600 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.6 l/100 km (18.7 US mpg, 22.4 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 294 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 c |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.5 kg/Hp, 285 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm, 380 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 600 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91 Hp/l |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 1500 rpm (590.05 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N74B66B |
| Engine displacement | 6592 cm3 (402.27 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.3 l (13 US qt | 10.82 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2105 kg (4640.73 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 | 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 | 1611 mm (63.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1640 mm (64.57 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) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.9 m (42.32 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic Sport |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/40 R20 90Y; 275/35 R20 102Y |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 20; 10J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the M760Li is BMW’s N74B66B 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine. This engine, a descendant of BMW’s long-standing V12 tradition, utilizes direct fuel injection and variable valve timing (Double-VANOS) to optimize performance and efficiency. The twin-turbochargers, positioned within the V of the engine, provide significant boost, contributing to the engine’s impressive 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. The engine’s longitudinal layout and rear-wheel bias, coupled with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, deliver exceptional traction and handling. The Steptronic Sport 8-speed automatic transmission is specifically tuned for the V12 engine, offering smooth and rapid gear changes. This transmission features paddle shifters, allowing the driver to manually select gears for a more engaging driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The M760Li delivers a driving experience that is both remarkably powerful and surprisingly refined. The immense torque available from just 1500 rpm provides effortless acceleration in any gear. The 0-60 mph sprint takes just 3.7 seconds, making it one of the quickest sedans available at the time. While the xDrive system prioritizes rear-wheel drive for a more traditional BMW feel, it seamlessly distributes power to the front wheels when needed, enhancing stability and traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to the 750i models with the V8 engine, the M760Li offers a significantly more potent and authoritative power delivery. The automatic transmission is programmed to prioritize comfort in normal driving modes, but can be shifted into Sport mode for quicker response and more aggressive gear changes.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As the flagship model, the M760Li came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. These included premium leather upholstery, multi-contour seats with massage function, a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound system, a rear-seat entertainment system with dual 10.2-inch screens, and a panoramic sunroof. Standard driver-assistance systems included adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included individual leather trim, a refrigerated rear console, and a heads-up display. The interior design emphasized a minimalist aesthetic with high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship.
Chassis & Braking
The M760Li’s chassis is engineered to handle the engine’s substantial power. It features a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, both optimized for comfort and handling. Adaptive dampers are standard, allowing the driver to adjust the suspension stiffness to suit their preferences. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The M760Li also features BMW’s Dynamic Performance Control system, which uses selective braking to enhance cornering agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The M760Li was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. However, some reviewers noted that its high price tag placed it in direct competition with even more exclusive ultra-luxury sedans. Compared to the 750i, the M760Li offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a substantial cost premium. Fuel economy, unsurprisingly, was not a strong point, with combined fuel consumption rated at 12.6 l/100 km. Reliability was generally good, although the complexity of the V12 engine and its associated systems meant that maintenance costs could be higher than those of simpler models.
Legacy
The G12 M760Li represents a high point in BMW’s V12 heritage. While the G70 generation 7 Series has moved away from the V12 engine, the G12 M760Li remains a sought-after model among enthusiasts and collectors. The N74B66B engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. On the used car market, the M760Li commands a premium price compared to other 7 Series variants, reflecting its exclusivity and performance capabilities. It stands as a testament to BMW’s commitment to building high-performance luxury sedans.
