2004 BMW 7 Series Review

Specifications

Class Leading Performance, Cutting-Edge Technology and Style

I recently road tested the Z4, BMWs entertaining roadster, reminiscent of the classic, long hooded open air sports cars of the 1960s. Although full of modern-day sports car technology and performance, the two-seat Z4 draws heavily on the past, at least in how it feels, which is in contrast to this weeks ride, a BMW 745Li. Its also chalk-full of technology and performance, but draws heavily on a futuristic-feel. The flagship Bimmer is big, brash and in many respects, beautiful. It is also a complex, often befuddlingly sophisticated labyrinthine of electronic and mechanical marvel.

But does it really need to be? The answer to that question is an unequivocal “yes”, and “no”, depending on a persons fondness for gizmos and ones innate ability to remember patterns and execute fingertip commands. For those of us dumbfounded by a multi-function remote control, the hope of utilizing the 754Lis technically challenging, advanced electronic gear to its fullest potential is about as likely as breaking an Enigma code or creating nuclear fusion from household products. Heck, the 745 doesnt even fire-up with a key. The vehicle is energized when the “remote control” (BMWs terminology) is pushed into a slot in the dash. After the remote has been authorized, the sedans powerful 8-cylinder workhorse can be started with the push of a dash-mounted button.

As controversial as its electronic complexity is, the exterior styling of the 7-Series underwent an equally controversial Bangleization in 2002 and remains largely untouched for 04. Not that I am anti-Bangle, referring of course to Chief BMW designer, Chris Bangle, but I was somewhat disappointed upon spying this latest 7-Series incarnation when it first appeared. Im a huge fan of the 1995 through 2001 edition of the full-size, five-seat luxo-performance series. The clean, low profile, symmetrical lines and expansive window treatment suited my conservative tastes to a T. Without quibble I still consider the previous 7 to be one of the sharpest looking sedans around. Granted, any design that began in 1995 and was successful enough to see the millenium, never mind exceed it, a long and prosperous life by automotive standards, would be in need of a redo.

Possibly the most notorious aspect of the new 7s styling is its rear decklid and taillight arrangement. When I first saw the styling element referred to as a floating trunk design, I questioned whether the trunk lid was actually intended for the car I was viewing or whether it was some sort of a last minute stand-in because the proper trunk lid had not yet arrived. Unfortunately, the lid I was viewing fit just as Bangle, or more correctly BMW designer Adrian van Hooydonk intended - Bangle, while still responsible for the final design, only oversaw the 7s styling while van Hooydonk penned it.

Apart from the “misaligned” trunk and unorthodox taillight treatment, I have come to admire the rounded surfaces and bulging lines of the 745Li. This is a large sedan, designed to transport five occupants in lavish comfort without sacrificing the high performance thresholds that distinguish it as a BMW. The “L” designation in the nameplate indicates length, and theres plenty of it. Without the “L,” the 745i displaces 198 inches of roadway lengthwise. Add the “L” and an additional 5.5 inches of roadway disappears, for a grand total of 203.5 inches of length. With the extended length, which elongates the cabin, comes substantially more rear seat real estate. Those at ease in the rear avail themselves to a minimum of 43.4 inches of legroom and plenty of headroom. In fact so much legroom exists that BMW has included moveable wedges for those in the rear to rest their feet on.

So how does all that space compare against some of the competing super-sized sedans? Well, the Audi A8L checks-in 5.0 inches longer than the 745Li, but grants 1.0 inch less legroom. The top-tier Mercedes S-Class pulls the tape to within 5.1 inches of the BMWs length, and resultantly offers 3.0 inches less legroom. Lest I be accused of not mentioning a domestic biggie, the Ford Crown Victoria wins for overall length, exceeding the BMW by no less than 8.5 inches, but the Crown Vics exceptional length fails to augment its rear seat legroom, which is close to 4.0 inches less than the 745Lis; however, with a trunk large enough to park a Buick, its obvious Ford focused on cargo rather than just human accommodations.

The exceptional comfort and space engineered into the rear of the 745Lis cabin is intended to attract those who would rather relax in the back watching TV, than place themselves in the drivers seat. The movie, “Driving Miss Daisy” comes to mind, however, realistically well-to-do business folk are more likely to occupy the rear seat of the executive-class Bimmer, especially when “James” is at the wheel. And whether its daytime television or CNN that delivers the desired infotainment, the optional multi-media package, which includes a console-mounted fold away screen viewable from the rear seats, will ensure not a commercial is missed. Controlled by an iDrive-like mouse mounted on the central rear seat armrest, the screen can be used to play DVDs or conventional television. Yup, depending on the vehicles location, I clearly received 5 to 10 different TV broadcast stations in full color. The audio signal accompanying each station played powerfully through the cars sound system, which by the way is absolutely stunning thanks in part to BMWs Logic7 sound technology. This advanced audio program does a tremendous job of separating and defining each instrument, while enhancing stereo imaging and the dynamic range of the crystal-clear surround-sound system.

Unfortunately, the 745s ear-pleasing audio system is less pleasing when it comes time to change the source of its input signal or contour its sound reproduction. Rather than pushing a button to change a CD or turning a dial to increase bass delivery, these and many other commands must be prompted through the iDrive dial. If any one of the multitude of screens other than the entertainment screen is in operation, several clicks and rotations of the iDrive dial are needed to accomplish what is, in a conventional system, a one click deal. Fortunately, steering wheel mounted buttons include volume and station presets (or CD track advance depending on whether the radio or CD system is in operation). And to be fair, a steering wheel mounted button also activates the voice command system, which enables switching between audio modes verbally. But in their zeal to adopt technological alternatives to the mundane, BMW engineers have shot themselves in the foot by incorporating an overly complex system into a car intended to target consumers whose understanding of the digital world is likely reflected in a VCR screen perpetually flashing “12:00″. Its akin to teaching an old dog new tricks, at least thats my perception. Many may argue, though, that rather than a dog Im as stubborn as a mule and as dumb as a horse.

Leaving the barnyard behind for a spell let me gush about the quality and infinite comfort of the 745Lis seats, front and rear. My tester was fitted with the optional ventilated comfort seats, which in front could be electrically adjusted for fore-and-aft movement, seat angle, headrest position, backrest angle, seat height, lumbar support, seat depth and backrest width. If these perches cant snugly hold and support a human form, the form cant be human. After a challenging day in the office rolling about on some sort of anatomically correct office chair, I yearn for the drive home just to feel the uncompromising comfort of the Bimmers office chair, also known as its drivers seat. When combined with a fresh Americano run-long by my favorite barista, the drive home in rush hour traffic becomes something to savor - and how often can you say that!

That drive begins after a short push of the starter button, firing life into the 325 horses stabled in 4.4-liters (268 cu-in) worth of one of the sweetest running V8s to ever indulge in premium fuel. BMW s highly refined, punchy V8 produces 330 pounds-feet of torque at 3,600-rpm - enough silk wrapped grunt to hustle the beefy 4,455 pound Bavarian living room from 0 to 60 mph in only 6.1 seconds, according to BMW that is. After having spent considerable seat time in the Germanic dream, I have no quarrel with that figure. Throttle response is immediate and power delivery is forceful from a standing start to well beyond the legal limits in North America. In fact the launch from a cruising speed of 50 mph is sensational. The 6-speed Steptronic transmission quickly inserts the gear most suited to the task as the tachometer pings to 4,000 rpm in preparation to sling shot the hefty sedan past whatever is impeding the flow of highway traffic. Highway passing is definitely a 745Li specialty, which it conducts with impeccable manners. A most civilized, demure and restrained growl from the Valvetronic equipped, 32-valve powerplant accompanies the visceral kick in the pants; and like a 5-star general the 745 never loses its composure or exhibits timidity as the speedometer climbs high into triple-digit territory. My testers polished high-speed ride was always stable, secure and free of vibration and twitchiness - plus there was always plenty of power to spare from the sophisticated Valvetronic performer under the hood.

BMW literature states that the 745Lis Valvetronic V8 incorporates the first valve drive system with fully variable lift control of the intake valves to ever be featured in a passenger car. In its explanation of the technology, BMW states that without requiring a throttle butterfly, engine output is controlled entirely by the amount of air. The fully variable intake system also allows the engine to adjust perfectly to power requirements and running speeds, developing high torque at low engine speeds and high power at just about any speeds. The reality of this technology shines through during day to day driving, as well as when hill climbing or highway passing orders are issued. The big Bimmer never has to strain to carry its weight, as the tremendous low-end torque developed by the midsize Valvetronic-8 easily flings the 745Li about like a paper cup in a windstorm - albeit more controllably.

The second half of the 745s gutsy drivetrain is a smooth shifting 6-speed autobox, featuring BMWs Steptronic manual shift mode which is managed through a total of four steering wheel mounted buttons, cast from metal no less. Two buttons are situated on each side of the wheel, one mounted in front for thumb actuation and one residing on the backside for fingertip use. The rear mounts initiate an upshift, while the front mounts engage a downshift. This system works well and adds a sporty dimension to piloting the full-size 4-door. The Steptronic program is activated by clicking on a multi-function steering wheel button, which cycles through the options of conventional automatic shifting, a sport-shift setting and the Steptronic manual-mode feature. Placing the multi-mode transmission into Park, Drive or Reverse is accomplished electronically of course, via a small, column-mounted lever, also seamingly cast from solid aluminum. This is a nice touch that imparts a sense of sophistication and quality. The lever moves smoothly and accurately, very short distances to engage Drive or Reverse. Park is engaged by simply pushing the button mounted at the its end. In similar fashion the parking brake is engaged, however the button to be pushed is on the dash instead.

As advanced as the transmission controls are, I found it slightly annoying not to be able to place my hand on a gear lever and perform a manual downshift when approaching a red light or moderating downhill speed. If BMW really wants to make the iDrive mouse useful, they should incorporate a simple maneuver into the device that would enable downshifting. The only way downshifting can be undertaken at present is by cycling through the steering wheel button that activates the Steptronic mode, then switching to the Steptronic button to perform a downshift. Of course once the downshift has been achieved, re-cycling through the first button is necessary to revert from Steptronic to the basic automatic mode. So in my view, BMW hasnt nailed the driver-controlled functionality of the 745s gearbox.

What the engineers have nailed, however, is the 745Lis precise handling characteristics. My test unit was equipped with an optional set of massive 20-inch rims wrapped in low profile, Michelin Pilots. When combined with BMWs Active Roll Stabilization technology, the wheel/suspension setup delivers the unimaginable: big car ride comfort combined with performance car handling. When trudging about town, the 745Li insulates its occupants from the harshness of broken roads, noisy trucks and foul weather. Road noise is mostly extinguished and wind rush at highway speeds is minimal. Those experiencing these pleasures will undoubtedly also enjoy the firm, but docile ride of the big flagship. But hammer the boulevard cruiser into a turn and a Jeckyl and Hyde effect takes over. Suddenly serenity gives way to tenacity. The 745Li swoops around bends and switchbacks without leaning or unduly punishing the Michelins, thanks in part to its front and rear active anti-roll stabilizer bars; active because actuators integrated within the roll bars apply opposing forces on the front and rear axles during cornering. Steering turn-in is crisp, especially for a large car carrying two-plus tons of mass. Although my road testing didnt include track-like driving demands it did deliver an enthusiastic run through the mountains, and in my experience the handling thresholds of the 745Li are well beyond levels needed to ensure driver confidence or competence for that matter. This cars handling athleticism rewards like few other cars of similar girth.

And the accolades are not reserved just for the 745Lis acceleration and handling gusto. The braking ability of the stretched 745 is remarkable. Strong, fade-free stopping power is definitely a BMW trait, and one that is taken no more seriously than in the 7-Series. Careful engineering and high quality components are required when the buggy to be stopped is as large as the 745Li, and then in as short a distance as possible. I conducted several back-to-back emergency stops in the Li and was astonished at how rapidly it came to a secure halt. I could feel the skin pulling away from the front of my skull as the speedo dropped like a lead weight from 60 mph to zero. During these procedures, the big sedan remained arrow-straight, only exhibiting the most-minute amount of nosedive. The brake setup that merits such praise is comprised of 4-wheel antilock disc brakes aided in their effectiveness by inner venting, Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Cornering Brake Control (CBC), the latter of which regulates the braking force applied at each wheel during cornering maneuvers.

In addition to the multi-layered brake programs, control of the 745 is further assured with BMWs Dynamic Stability Control (DSC III) technology, which uses wheel specific braking and power deprivation to return a wayward 7-Series to the straight and narrow. Of course this safety net can be disabled should one have the desire to manage the forces of nature exclusive of technology.

But with BMW, safety doesnt end with enhanced vehicle control features. When it comes to airbags, the multitude of passive restraints in the 745Li could re-float the Titanic. The collection begins with driver and front passenger impact-depending airbags supported by an Active Knee Protection System. There are also additional head and side airbags standard in the front and optional in the rear. A Safety and Information Module (SIM) collects crash data from a total of 14-satellite sensors and manages the entire airbag system in the 745Li. SIM determines which airbags to inflate and with how much force. SIM also provides reserve power for the entire safety system should the collision result in an immediate loss of electrical power.

As with any manufacturers flagship sedan, the 745Li is stuffed-full of creature comforts and conveniences. However human emotion being what it is, numerous stand-alone options and option packages are available to personalize each unit. The option packages vary somewhat from the packages available north of the 49th parallel. An Adaptive Ride Package provides self-leveling rear suspension with air springs and stepless electronic damping control. A Cold Weather Package warms things up with heated front seats with fast heating and balance control, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel and a ski bag. A Convenience Package supplies soft-close automatic doors (that pull the doors closed automatically) and an automatic power trunk lid. A Luxury Seating Package increases occupant comfort with active, heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. The Premium Sound Package installs the Logic7 audio system with 13 speakers, Digital Sound Processing and 6-disc in-dash CD changer. The Entertainment Package includes the 6.5″ LCD rear screen and iDrive control, trunk-mounted 6-disc CD/DVD changer and headphone jacks. And finally, the Sport Package delivers a 745i with sport suspension, 19-inch V-spoke alloy wheels with 245/45R-19 front /275/40R-19 rear performance tires, high-gloss black shadowline exterior trim, 3-spoke sport steering wheel with multi-function controls, pearl leather upholstery with dark high-gloss wood trim, power front sport seats (12-way drivers, 10-way passengers) with adjustable thigh support.

The 745Li is a very unique and exclusive automobile. Its impressive level of sophistication, performance and technology is a clear reflection of BMWs ambition to lead the way rather than follow. In doing so certain risks must be taken, as any pioneer or explorer would confirm. BMW has taken such risks with its unconventional styling themes of late and also its over-achieving, technically challenging iDrive format. Regardless of whether one praises or despises these overt exploits, BMW deserves huge credit for taking bold steps that others are likely to follow. Those steps take the fortunate few who will own a new 7-Series directly to class leading performance and cutting-edge technology and style.