BMW 730i 2006

History and background

The BMW 730i belongs to the seventh generation of the 7 Series, referred to internally as the E65 for the standard wheelbase. Introduced in 2001 as the successor to the E38, this generation marked a clear break for BMW from its previous design and operating philosophy. The car was developed under the direction of Chris Bangle, whose design gave the 7 Series a different, more angular silhouette than previous generations. Within BMW's premium segment, the 730i was intended to be an entry-level version, pairing comfort and representation with a relatively less complex engine variant than the six-cylinder and eight-cylinder versions above it.

The 2006 BMW 730i falls within the facelift period of the E65 generation, which was implemented in 2005. In the process, various details on exterior, lighting and controls were revised. The 7 Series of this generation additionally received several technical and electronic updates during the course of production, befitting the model's role as BMW's technological showcase. In the marketplace, the BMW 730i positioned itself as a high-end luxury sedan against direct competitors such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the Audi A8.

The 7 Series of this generation was known for its combination of large dimensions, extensive electronics and comfort-oriented tuning. Within the model line, the 730i was a version that stood out for its emphasis on the six-cylinder setup within the series. In doing so, the BMW 730i remained true to the 7 Series' traditional position as an executive and travel car, without the more performance-oriented emphasis of the more powerful variants.

Characteristics and special features

This generation's BMW 730i is part of a model series in which many functions were integrated via the central control concept. In doing so, BMW introduced the iDrive system, which centrally controlled a significant portion of vehicle functions. That system was refined over the course of the first years of production and has become one of the most distinctive elements of the E65 generation.

Technically, within the 7-series line, the BMW 730i stood for the use of a six-cylinder gasoline engine in a top-of-the-line luxury sedan. Combined with the fully independent suspension and chassis tuning geared toward long-range comfort, this was in keeping with the model's role as a representative travel car. The 2005 facelift additionally brought together several details that visually place the BMW 730i within the later production years of the E65.

Summary


The 2006 BMW 730i is a version from the facelift phase of the E65 generation, with a clear position within BMW's upper segment and an emphasis on comfort, representation and electronic equipment. The car is part of a generation that technically and formally marks an important transition in the history of the 7 Series. To get a good idea of the lot, we recommend coming to the viewing day.