The ActiveHybrid 7 packs a turbocharged 3-liter inline six-cylinder engine assisted by an electric motor with a lithium-ion battery pack. All told, this combination produces an impressive 350 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission are standard. While fuel economy is decent for a hybrid with this much power—22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway—it improves on a conventional 740Li's ratings by only a few miles per gallon.
The classy interior features high-end materials, all the latest technology and a premium finish. BMW's highly customizable iDrive system will take some practice to fully command; once mastered, it capably controls an abundance of features. Passengers enjoy an especially serene environment because of the hybrid engine's quiet operation. The electric motor's sizable battery pack does limit trunk space, though.