2004 BMW 745Li Road Test

As with any manufacturer's flagship sedan, the 745Li is stuffed-full of creature comforts and conveniences. However human

The 745Li is stuffed-full of creature comforts and conveniences, but if that still isn't enough there are numerous stand-alone options and option packages available to personalize each unit. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

emotion being what it is, numerous stand-alone options and option packages are available to personalize each unit. The Sport Package adds ash grain dark high gloss wood trim, a sport suspension, 3-spoke leather sport steering wheel, body color roof moldings, 19" V-spoke alloy wheels and high-gloss Shadow Line exterior trim.

The Multimedia Package tech's it up with the rear DVD/TV screen and controlling iDrive system, plus a 6-disc DVD changer. The Executive Package adds comfort access, heated seats, rear Park Distance Control, LOGIC7 hi-fi audio, automatic trunk lid actuation, soft-close doors (that pull the doors closed automatically), electric rear sunshade w/electric side sunshades, an active seat for the driver and ventilated front seats for the driver and passenger. A Convenience Package doesn't go as far as the Executive Package, but adds comfort access, soft-close doors, automatic trunk lid actuation and ventilated active front seats. A Seating Package adds rear heated active seats, and active front, heated and ventilated seats. The "active" aspect

The 745Li's impressive level of sophistication, performance and technology is a clear reflection of BMW's ambition to lead the way rather than follow. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

of BMW's seating is a massage feature that slowly presses and releases the seat cushion alternately against each buttock. This activity is designed to relieve fatigue and discomfort during lengthy spates of motoring.

The 745Li is a very unique and exclusive automobile. It's impressive level of sophistication, performance and technology is a clear reflection of BMW's ambition to lead the way rather than follow. In doing so certain risks must be taken, as any pioneer or explorer would confirm. BMW has taken such risks with its unconventional styling themes of late and also its over-achieving, technically challenging iDrive format. Regardless of whether one praises or despises these overt exploits, BMW deserves huge credit for taking bold steps that others are likely to follow. Those steps take the fortunate few who will own a new 7-Series directly to class leading performance and cutting-edge technology and style.