Mabuyane Mabuza
Being a petrolhead is tough. And it’s even tougher for someone who is not just a petrolhead but is in the thick of things. Over my 19-year career as a motoring journalist, I have driven many cars. And that makes me a difficult person to impress when it comes to automobiles.
Having said that, there are certain cars that would leave an impression even on the most jaded veteran.Exploring the BMW 740i’s Luxurious Legacy
Once in a while, a particular a car comes along and revives the exhilaration I felt in the early days when I was starting out as a motoring journalist.
When BMW SA scheduled the 740i for me to test for a full week, I obliged. Little did I know that my passion for driving would be awoken in the manner it did.
You see, the 7 Series was launched to the SA market, the launch I was honoured to attend in Cape Town.
But living with this car for a week was a completely different experience.
The temptation to ditch my track pants and boots for the week was too big to ignore, so I gracefully accepted.
This is when your girl wore a jacket and heels and used the royalty wave. Excuse me, this was necessary.
The BMW 740i is the entry-level of the range but boy, you can’t fault it. The 740i is a 7-Series through and through. A sleek and luxurious vehicle that exudes elegance from every angle. From the moment you lay eyes on the long piece of metal, you know that you’re in for a treat. The sharp lines seem to make this saloon look even longer despite the fact that this is not a long-wheel base.
The exterior design is both modern and classic, with an attention to detail that is undeniable. My test model came decorated in a two tone blue and silver and oozed all things opulence.
Slide inside, and the interior is equally impressive. The cabin is spacious and inviting, with high-quality materials used throughout. The driver’s seat is both comfortable and supportive, helping you to feel in control behind the wheel. The dashboard is flawlessly executed, with cutting-edge technology beautifully integrated into the design.
Under the hood, the 740i shines with muscular performance that doesn’t sacrifice refinement. The 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine delivers a confident, smooth ride, while the eight-speed automatic transmission provides seamless shifting. My shocker was how fuel sufficient this engine is. Listen, I am not in any way suggesting to be as great at the Renault Duster but the 7.5l/100km I had averaged was good enough.
The driving experience is further enhanced by the car’s handling, which is both precise and agile. You’ll feel confident navigating tight corners and winding roads, even at high speeds.
Perhaps the most impressive element of the BMW 740i is its suite of safety features. Like many modern cars, the 740i comes equipped with a range of state-of-the-art systems, such as adaptive cruise control, surround-view cameras, lane departure warning, and front and rear parking sensors. These features provide peace of mind, making you feel more secure behind the wheel.
The infotainment has been taken to another level, the new generation 7-Series comes fitted with a full rear screen that is mounted on the roof behind the front seats. This screen can be dropped at a push of a button and voila, the passenger(s) will be ready to enjoy entertainment of their choice either via Netflix or YouTube. This car comes with full WIFI for all occupants.
The 740i is an impressive vehicle that delivers on all fronts. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious driving experience, superior performance, or advanced safety features, this car checks all the boxes. If you’re in the market for a new luxury sedan, the BMW 740i is definitely one to consider.
But personal pick would be the 740d, simply because I love me some diesel.
From R2,160 million for the 740i right up to R2.825 for the big brother i7.
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