2008 BMW 750i Review | Buyer Guide
The Last Hurrah For The Current Model
2008 is the last year for the current version of the 750i. A redesigned 2009 model will debut sometime in the coming months. When this car was introduced six years ago as the 745i, it stirred up controversy. Its styling, with a tacked-on rear deck, was jarring to the eye. But even more unnerving was its new iDrive master control for climate, communication, entertainment and navigation. It was unintuitive and mystifying. Over the years, the styling has grown more acceptable, but the iDrive still detracts from the enjoyment of the car, and is symbolic of technology overload.
The 750i is a car that demands that you read the owner’s manual. Many of the controls are unconventional. The seat adjustments are inscrutable at first glance. They move the seats 20 different ways, but it takes awhile to figure out. The gear selector is electronic and operates off a stalk on the steering column. It is actually easy to operate once you get the hang of it. But how do you engage the “sport” or “manual” modes? Ah, you have to find a tiny button on the steering wheel. Then there’s the optional night vision feature, but that’s another story.
However, under all the technological clutter is a very rewarding driver’s car. The BMW DNA shines through. The 750i has plenty of go. BMW powers it with its hefty 4.8-liter V-8 that pumps out 360 hp. Mated to the V-8 is a six-speed automatic, with the aforementioned “sport” and “manual” modes, and shift buttons on the steering wheel. This is a very smooth and responsive power train that is capable of whisking this 4500 lb. car to 60 in less than six seconds.
The handling of the 750i is what we’ve come to expect from BMW. This is a full-size luxury car that handles more like a midsize sport sedan, especially if it’s equipped with the optional Sport package that provides stiffer suspension settings and huge 20-inch wheels. The Sport setup makes the 750i feel lighter on its feet, and the larger tires provide more grip. The wheels themselves are gorgeous, with a myriad of gleaming spokes that really give the 750i a forceful presence.
Buyers who are seeking a true luxury-car ride may want to forego the Sport package. They will still get a car that handles well, but a little less crisply. Those who do opt for the Sport setup will find highway travel just as comfortable, but a more stiff ride on secondary roads. But whichever way you go, you will ride in a cabin that is quiet, and appointed in understated luxury.
The 2008 BMW 750i has a base price of $76,575.
Snapshot Review
Last Year for Current Design
Great Driving Dynamics
Technology Overload
