1995 BMW 740i A new standard for luxury By Professional Test Driver, New Car Test Drive .com

BMW has moved the goal posts, pushed back the fences and raised the basket in the luxury-car game. Just when Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, Audi, Cadillac and Lincoln thought they had a handle on what a luxury car should be, BMW introduces a new model from the 7-Series line, the 740i, and it's rethink time for the competition.

Not too surprising. BMW has been downright ferocious in the development and introduction of new models the past few years. There have been new 3- and 8-Series models, coupes and convertibles added to the 3-Series, a 5-Series Touring (wagon) was introduced, V8 engines appeared in the 5- and 7-Series, the succulent M3 came on the scene, and so on.

And the public has responded to these actions: BMW of North America Inc. reported its 1994 sales figures at more than 77,000 units through November 1994.

We believe the new 740i will be another showroom success. Cars this good do not go unnoticed. Our model, with a number of standard goodies and no optional equipment, came in at $58,370, and proved to us to be worth every single sawbuck.