BY 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. I have driven many cars over the past 19 years of my motoring journalism career, which makes me a difficult person to be impressed by a car. Having said that, certain cars would leave an impression even on someone with that much exposure.
Once in a while, there’ll be a car that revives that excitement, leaving me feeling young again and reminding me of those early days when I started out as a motoring journalist.
So, when BMW SA scheduled me to drive the 740i to test for a full week, I gladly accepted it. Little did I know that my passion for driving would be awoken in the manner it did.
You see, the 740i was launched to the SA market last year alongside the i7, and I attended the launch in Cape Town. But living with this car for a week was a completely different experience.
It is a sleek and luxurious vehicle that exudes elegance from every angle.
It is a sleek and luxurious vehicle that exudes elegance from every angle
The BMW 740i is the entry level of the range but boy, you can’t fault. It is a 7-series, through and through. It is a sleek and luxurious vehicle that exudes elegance from every angle. From the moment you lay eyes on the sleek body and sharp lines, you know that you’re in for a treat. The exterior design is both modern and classic, with an attention to detail that is undeniable.
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 efficient this engine is, averaging around 7.5l/100km.
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. The car is 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 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 my 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.
