While the all-electric i7 based on the 7 Series is impressive, those who still prefer traditional combustion engines or hesitate due to charging concerns will find the 750e plug-in hybrid model to be a welcome option.
First off, the 750e features a battery capacity that has doubled compared to previous models, allowing for over 37 miles of driving in electric mode. This means that daily drivers with a typical range of around that distance might feel like they're driving an electric vehicle.
To understand the BMW PHEV system, we first need to recognize that traditional hybrid vehicles use small battery capacities and electric motor assistance to improve fuel efficiency slightly.
The 750e plug-in hybrid, however, minimizes the use of the combustion engine and can operate solely in electric vehicle (EV) mode, meaning that while the battery lasts, fuel consumption is virtually nonexistent.
Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency in hybrid mode becomes irrelevant. When I received the test vehicle, the battery gauge showed about 70% charge, and throughout the test drive, I hardly noticed the engine engaging as it operated almost entirely in EV mode until the battery was nearly depleted.
I previously test drove the 740i model, which also uses a 6-cylinder direct-injection turbo engine, but the 750e impressively delivers a smooth driving experience akin to that of an 8-cylinder naturally aspirated engine, thanks to the electric motor's contributions.
Notably, the 750e's specifications indicate a system output of 489 horsepower and a maximum torque of 52.5 lb-ft. These figures suggest performance that rivals BMW's M models. Just as the new M5 incorporates an electric motor into its hybrid system to exceed 700 horsepower, the 750e offers ample power suitable for a large flagship sedan while maintaining high fuel efficiency.
As I mentioned earlier, the active use of EV mode results in an average fuel efficiency exceeding 70 miles per gallon, making it more accurate to refer to it as energy efficiency rather than fuel economy.
The luxurious interior remains consistent with the existing 7 Series design.
The attractive interaction bar during nighttime driving feels like a communication tool with the BMW AI.
The large theater screen, capable of supporting various OTT and multimedia services, serves as a valuable space for enjoying quality time with loved ones in the comfortable rear seats.
The design has also become much younger. The 7 Series I remember was a rather conservative large sedan that emphasized grandeur without any excessive features, but this new model is different.
While it still exudes grandeur, it presents a sporty and futuristic design, yet it retains a classic vibe that overlaps with BMW's heritage.
If you have the opportunity to charge at home or at the office, the 750e stands out as a high-performance large sedan that offers exceptional fuel efficiency and output, comparable to that of an 8-cylinder engine. It serves as an excellent family car or personal vehicle for enjoyment. This is the conclusion of today's test drive review.
Each time I test drive the 7 Series, I feel an overwhelming sense of longing when it’s time to return it. I don’t know when it will happen, but if I ever decide to buy a sedan, the BMW 7 will undoubtedly be my top choice.