Centre of excellence; You can't help but be impressed by the smooth performance of the stunning new BMW 7 Series because, as PETER KEENAN discovers, this big saloon is practically flawless.

Byline: PETER KEENAN

THE BMW 740i is a powerful operator at the top of its game - much like the people who will be buying it.

Aimed at the chief executives of this world, the fifth-generation 7 Series, launched last year, sets new standards in the luxury saloon market.

Examples of its excellence are numerous, from the sat-nav system with state-of-the-art graphics displayed on a wide-angle screen to air-conditioning offering everyone the chance to set his or her own micro climate in the cavernous cabin.

The ride is refined, the engine's a dream and the automatic transmission is as smooth as silk.

But the star of the show is the optional head-up display on the windscreen, giving not only your speed, but also route directions if the sat-nav system is engaged. That may sound like a distraction when you are driving - trust me, it's not.

The system uses a forward-facing camera that also recognises speed limit signs and displays the image to the left of the screen. At a shade under pounds 1000, it's well worth the extra expense.

The model benefits from improved styling compared to its predecessor and engines to die for.

The exterior is elegant with a couple of sporty touches, such as the slightly bulging rear wheelarches, to remind you that the car is capable of bulleting from 0 to 62mph in just under six seconds.

A pronounced grille, bigger lamps and LED indicators emphasise its striking appearance.

It houses a petrol engine that is quite simply a riot. The 740i is quite happy to pootle around the city, but let loose on the open road it emits a menacing growl.

However, BMW do not expect it to be responsible for the bulk of sales - that accolade is predicted to go, instead, to the 730d, which offers brilliant fuel economy and relatively low carbon dioxide emissions for a luxury saloon.

What both versions have in common is the fun factor.

The 7 Series is a seriously big car that still manages to be a decent drive thanks to a lack of roll in corners and a suspension that, although perhaps a bit stiff for some, ensures precise handling and a float-free ride.

So, although the 740i's natural habitat may be on the motorway, BMW's flagship can also be trusted to strut its stuff with a surprising amount of style on country lanes.

The interior - from the texture of the cabin materials to the general ambience - is stunning.

Offering loads of space for passengers, the driver also benefits from a comfy seat that is endlessly adjustable.

The boot holds 500 litres of shopping or luggage - but is a bit narrow considering the car's size.

BMW have finally updated their much-maligned iDrive system with buttons for the most commonly used features such as the excellent stereo and the sat-nav.

So, having dealt with a problem which has dogged BMW, it's fair to say the 740i is practically flawless.

Factfile:

Model: BMW 740i Engine: Three-litre six-cylinder petrol Power: 326bhp 0-62mph: 5.9 seconds Fuel economy: 28.5mpg CO2 emissions: 232g/km Warranty: Three years/unlimited miles Price: pounds 57,080 On sale: Now