Initially, the fourth generation of the BMW 7 Series was launched with V8 petrol engines. The BMW 735i effectively assumed the role of entry-level model in this luxury top range model series. However the key technical innovations were already included in this model. The smaller V8 engine installed in the BMW 735i also had VALVETRONIC and an intake manifold with variable length. Both measures assisted in reducing the fuel consumption by 14% at 14% higher power output.