For enthusiasts and owners of the 2016 BMW 7 Series, understanding the specifics of the 750Li's powertrain is essential. The 2016 model year marked a significant evolution for the flagship luxury sedan, refining its performance and efficiency. At the heart of this variant lies a sophisticated and powerful engine, meticulously engineered to deliver a blend of robust power and refined operation. This deep dive into the 2016 BMW 750Li engine size and its associated technology will provide a clear picture of what powers this German marvel.
The Core Powerplant: N74B40 Engine
The primary distinction for the 2016 750Li is its twin-turbocharged V8 engine, designated as the N74B40. This powerplant represents BMW’s pinnacle of inline-six and V8 engineering, adapted for the demanding flagship sedan. The "B40" in its name signifies its displacement, indicating a total capacity of 3,982 cubic centimeters, or just under 4.0 liters. This specific configuration was chosen to balance immense power with relative efficiency, a critical consideration for a vehicle of its size and intended market.
Technical Specifications and Output
Understanding the engine size is only part of the story; the performance figures are where the N74B40 truly shines. This sophisticated unit generates an impressive 445 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. This substantial output allows the 750Li to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds, a testament to its engineering. The power is delivered smoothly through an 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring that the immense power is always available at the right moment, whether cruising on the highway or navigating city streets.
Decoding the 750Li Designation
BMW's nomenclature can sometimes be confusing, but it directly correlates to the vehicle's performance hierarchy. The "750" in 750Li is not an arbitrary number; it is a relative indicator of the engine's power output compared to other models in the 7 Series range. It signifies that this model sits above the 740i and 740e, but below the high-performance M760Li xDrive. The "Li" itself stands for "Lang," which is German for "long," denoting the extended-wheelbase version of the sedan, typically preferred by executives for its enhanced rear-seat comfort.
Integration with xDrive All-Wheel Drive
The 2016 750Li is almost exclusively paired with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This intelligent setup dynamically distributes power between the front and rear wheels, optimizing traction and stability in various driving conditions. The interaction between the N74B40 engine's substantial torque and the xDrive system is a key factor in the car's confident handling and effortless acceleration. This integration ensures that the power generated by the engine is translated effectively to the road, regardless of weather or surface conditions.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency Considerations
While the 2016 BMW 750Li is undeniably a performance machine, BMW made significant strides in efficiency for its fourth-generation 7 Series. The engine features advanced technologies such as double-VANOS (variable valve timing) and Valvetronic (electronic valve lift control), which optimize airflow and combustion. These innovations help manage the fuel consumption of such a large displacement engine. According to EPA estimates, the 750Li achieves a combined 19 MPG, a remarkable figure for a car with its power and curb weight, making the engine size more palatable on a daily basis.
Refinement and the Driving Experience
The experience of driving a 2016 750Li is defined by its seamless integration of power and luxury. The engine operates with a muted growl under normal conditions, transitioning to a more pronounced and exhilarating soundtrack when called upon. The precision of the throttle response, coupled with the smoothness of the transmission shifts, creates a driving experience that is both effortless and engaging. The large engine is not a blunt instrument but a finely tuned component of the car's overall dynamics.
Maintenance and Longevity
Owning a vehicle with a 3.98-liter turbocharged V8 requires a commitment to proper maintenance to ensure longevity and performance. BMW recommends using premium unleaded gasoline to prevent knocking and to maintain the efficiency of the turbochargers. Regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil are crucial, as the engine's complex valvetrain and turbochargers operate under high temperatures and pressures. Adhering to the maintenance schedule is the best way to preserve the integrity and performance of the N74B40 engine for years to come.
