BMW 7-series diesels announced

18 July 2002: In just a few months’ time, BMW will raise the benchmark yet again for luxury motoring in the diesel range with the introduction of two new model variants in the 7 Series.

In October, the new BMW 730d and 740d will be entering the market featuring second-generation common rail fuel injection.

The straight-six engine of the BMW 730d develops maximum output of 160 kW (218bhp) at 4000 rpm, with maximum torque of 500 Nm or 369 lb-ft between 2000 and 2750 rpm.

The V8 power unit of the BMW 740d develops 190 kW or 258 bhp at 4000 rpm, torque peaking at 600 Nm or 442 lb-ft between 1900 and 2500 rpm.

Both diesel models come for the first time in the world with the six-speed automatic transmission which pioneered in the 735i and 745i.

The BMW 730d accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 8.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 146 mph. The 740d accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph. And at the same time the new diesel-powered 7 Series make do with fuel consumption of only 33.2 and, respectively, 29.1 mpg in the EU cycle.

The retail price of the 730d in Germany is 58,000 euros; the 740d retails at 75,700 euros, including 16% VAT. Irish prices have not yet been announced, but will be subject to a penally high VRT rate and 21% VAT.

July 2002