When the window sticker comes as two separate pages, you'd figure this car is likely to be pricey, and it is: The base price of $84,200 swells to $108,870, with the long list of options, plus a $1,000 federal "gas guzzler" tax.
But the redesigned 2009 BMW 750Li is the company's flagship, certainly one of the most competent, and complex, cars I've ever driven. It's fully deserving of the "Ultimate Driving Machine" slogan that appears at the top of that window sticker. For effortless but still involving long-distance touring, the only car that rivals it is the S-Class Mercedes-Benz.
The 750 comes in two basic models -- the 750i, and the 750Li, tested here. The main difference is that the Li wheelbase has been lengthened 5.5 inches, which translates directly into limo-like rear seat room. Overall length of the 750Li is 205 inches, which is the same as the Mercedes S-Class, but 10 inches shorter than a Lincoln Town Car.
Despite the size, the 750Li handles like a much smaller car, a BMW trademark. If you want a sportier feel, you can adjust the suspension and throttle response at the touch of a button.
The 750Li has all the expected safety equipment, and some that may not be, such as optional side-view cameras, parking distance control and "lane departure warning" that tells you if you drift over the road's center line. "Night vision with pedestrian detection" added $2,600. Other options, like the leather trim on the instrument panel, which added $1,200, I could do without.
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The turbocharged 4.4-liter, 400-horsepower engine works well with the six-speed automatic transmission. And while EPA-rated in-town mileage is grim at 14 mpg, it's rated at 22 mpg on the highway.
Inside, the leather bucket seats are as comfortable as any recliner. BMW has thankfully upgraded its iDrive system, which uses a dial on the center console to control multiple functions, including climate, sound and the navigation system, and it is easier to use than it was.
Aside from the price and the mechanical complexity -- I'd hate to be the fourth owner of this car, trying to keep all these bells and whistles in working order -- there isn't much to criticize. This may be the best luxury sedan available at any price.
Base price: $84,200
Price as tested: $108,870
EPA rating: 14 miles per gallon city driving, 22 mpg highway
Details: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan with a turbocharged 4.4-liter, 400-horsepower V-8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission.
