New BMW 7 Series Makes Malaysian Debut, 740Le xDrive Plug-in Hybrid, RM594,800

After much anticipation, BMW Malaysia today finally introduced the new BMW 7 Series. Only one variant will be offered here which is the 740Le xDrive plug-in hybrid in Pure Excellence trim, priced at RM594,800 on the road without insurance.

This is how it stands against its rival, the Mercedes-Benz S560e:

Assembled locally, the 740Le is now powered by a new turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine that pumps out 286 bhp and 450 Nm of torque between 1,500 and 3,500 rpm, replacing the pre-facelift model’s 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo engine.  

The engine is aided by a synchronous electric motor integrated into the transmission which adds another 113 hp and 265 Nm of torque. The nett maximum output (when in Sport mode) is 394 hp and 600 Nm of torque, versus the outgoing model’s 322 hp and 500 Nm of torque.

The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic Steptronic transmission which sends power to all four wheels via the xDrive all-wheel drive sytem.

Capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds and clocking a top speed of 250 km/h, the 740Le also comes with a new 12.0 kWh high-voltage battery which resides under the rear seat. The battery can be charged fully in 4.4 hours using a 16 Amp/ 230 V power outlet.

Compared to the outgoing model’s 9.2kWh battery which enabled the car to drive in pure electric mode for up to 41 km, the new 740Le’s range has increased to about 50 km thanks to the higher capacity battery.

Powertrain aside, the 7 has also gone through a few major updates in terms of exterior design. Clad in Pure Excellence trim, the front end of the new 7 Series has been completely tweaked, featuring a new bumper, a new bonnet that is 50 mm higher than before, the kidney grille that is 40% larger than before, as well as new BMW Laser headlights that are 35% slimmer than before.

Moving to the side, the car comes with new 19-inch wheels, as well as redesigned air breathers which are more upright compared to the outgoing slanted ones.

At the rear, the new 7 comes with a redesigned bumper, new slimmer LED taillights with 3D effect, and a light bar which runs across the rear right below the chrome strip and above the number plate.

Moving inside, key updates include the 12.3-inch Live Cockpit Pro digital instrument panel, and a 10.25-inch central display infotainment system which now supports touch screen functionality. Both are powered by BMW’s latest Operating System 7.0.

The wide range of BMW Personal CoPilot driver assistance systems is now complemented with standard equipment such as the camera and radar-based approach and pedestrian warning system that can now detect cyclists.

The new 7 also features the Evasion Aid which uses steering interventions to support the driver in sudden evasive manoeuvres, Crossroads Warning with City Brake Activation, Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Parking Assistant, Reversing Assistant, as well as the BMW Digital Key which is available for selected Android mobile devices.

Another comfort aspect comes in the form of a new mobile phone tray that supports wireless charging for compatible devices, now positioned more accessibly within the driver’s view below the air-cond controls.

Other key features in the cabin include:

• New sports steering design
• Poplar Grain Grey fine-wood trim
• Alcantara headliner
• Nappa Leather upholstery
• Electrically adjustable comfort seats with massage function for rear passengers
• Panoramic glass roof with Sky Lounge lights
• Automatic four-zone control air-conditioning
• Roller sunblinds
• Rear Entertainment Experience
• 16-speaker Harman Kardon Surround Sound System
• Updated Gesture Control system with more functions
• Connected Package Professional
• BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant (voice command)

Available in four colours (Mineral White, Black Sapphire, Bernina Grey, Imperial Blue) which can be paired with either Black Nappa Leather or Cognac Nappa Leather upholstery, the new BMW 740Le xDrive is offered with the Balloon Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, under which the car can be owned with monthly instalment plans starting from RM6,788.00 (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a five-year tenure).

Owners of the new BMW 7 Series will experience the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes:

• BMW 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Programme
• BMW 2-Year/ 24 Month Tyre Warranty Programme for its Run Flat Tyre offering and services
• BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline
• The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW White Card
• BMW Service Online

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