2020 BMW 7 Series Electric Plug-in Hybrid: Price, Specs & Features

This review is on the 2020 BMW 745Le xDrive Plug-in Hybrid. This is a facelift model with changes in both the exterior and the interior of the car. The 7 series is the top-of-the-line sedan in the BMW lineup and offers an optimum level of luxury and comfort. The starting price of this car is PKR 5 Crore. This price tag includes a lot of the features that were once optional, but now they are standard. For example, the adaptive LED headlights now come as standard. The higher price tag compared to the outgoing model is also due to added import duties on the bigger engine that this car has. A total of 275% of import taxes and duties are levied on this car. This car is based on the BMW Efficient Dynamics technology. It offers the best of both worlds by combining a powerful petrol engine with an electric motor that is powered by a lithium-ion battery. 

Exterior 

The first thing you will notice in this facelift is the massive kidney grille at the front that gives this car a bold look. The headlights are also available in a slimmer design, and the appearance of the car is more horizontal and dynamic. This car has M package design and is shown by M badges on the exterior. Alloy wheels are also special for this M package, which gives this car an aggressive look. On the side at the front, you can find a charging point since it is a plug-in hybrid. Compared to the previous model, the wheelbase length is similar. However, the new model is a bit longer and wider than the predecessor. 

The taillights are three-dimensional, and there is a light bar that extends throughout the width of the car at the rear. This car also has an optional rear spoiler on the top of the boot. The rear chrome exhaust pipes outlets are wider than before. The boot of this car is fully automatic and has emblems for xDrive and 745Le. The boot space is similar to the old model. The carbon core technology makes this car very light, tough, and rugged. The bonnet of the car is more muscular and bold compared to the outgoing model. Other exterior features include heated washer jets, welcome light, and soft-close function for doors. 

Interior 

This car comes with an executive lounge package for the interior. At the rear, there is a central console that is fixed and creates room for only two individuals. The executive lounge contains many features. These features include massagers, ventilated seats, heated seats, more adjustments in the seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a tablet to operate different functions of the car. Screen mirroring can also be done on the rear entertainment system. BMW always provides a sporty and driver-centered driving position, and this is the same case with this car. All the controls are ergonomically designed towards the driver. 

The Live Cockpit is one of the special features of the interior in this car. The entire speedometer has been made digital. There are two entertainment screens for the two rear passengers. At the bottom of the steering, there is an M emblem. The interior comprises of American Oak Wood trim on the dashboard, doors, and the center console. There are twelve different colors for the ambient lighting system. Lumbar support is provided for the driver and front passenger. Electric seat adjustment with memory function is also included. The car also comes with Bowers and Wilkin’s premium diamond surround sound system. You can also opt for a Harmon Kardon sound system as well as an added option. 

The iDrive system is a touchscreen that can be controlled through a rotary nob in the center console. Another amazing feature integrated into this car is the panoramic glass roof sky lounge. This feature creates an airy cabin ambiance for the rear passengers. The glass roof is designed with the help of more than 5000 LEDs. This feature is optional and is more prominent at night. The interior upholstery is made out of Nappa leather which is comfortable and adds to the premium nature of this car. This car also incorporates a heads-up display, which is clear and guides the driver regarding import driving information like the speed and mileage. Due to this, the driver does not have to take his/her eyes off the road. Electric roller sunblind for the rear window is also included as standard on this model. 

Other interior features include air conditioning with four-zone control, ceramic finish for controls, footwell lights, reading lights, three-spoke sports leather steering, gesture control, enhanced Bluetooth with wireless charging, multi-functional instrument panel, microfilter, and active carbon filter and door sill finishers with BMW designation. 

See the video review of 2020 BMW 7 Series Electric Plug-in Hybrid below:

Performance 

This car comes with a 3.0L turbocharged 6-cylinder engine, and due to the turbocharger, you can expect performance equal to a 4.5L engine. This engine propels the car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5 seconds flat. This makes it a very quick car, given its enormous size. The engine produces 394bhp and 600Nm of torque. BMW is providing a six-year warranty for the electric engine. This electric engine/motor has been redesigned to output more power. This car gives a fuel average of 45 km/l inside the city. Paddler shifters are also included in this car, which adds to the sporty nature. The car comes with an 8-speed automatic Steptronic transmission. There are a launch control and manual shifting feature with this transmission. Electronic throttle control is also included with a twin-scroll turbocharger and variable valve control. The active kidney grille is connected to the electronically-controlled engine cooling system. 

Comfort and Handling 

The 7 series is built on a 50/50 weight distribution, which enhances the handling and stability of the car. Since it is an extended wheelbase model, the legroom is ample in the rear of the car. The headroom is also sizeable for an average-size adult. The iDrive system integrated voice command feature that makes driving easier and convenient. The 7 series also comes with an electronic parking brake with auto-hold function. The 360-degree cameras can make driving around town and parking a bit easier. There are different driving modes that make driving easier, as well. These include sport, hybrid, electric, comfort, eco pro, and standard. Since this car comes with all-wheel-drive, it makes handling a bit easier for the driver. Parking assist and cruise control also aid in making this car easier and comfortable to drive. 

Safety 

As far as safety is concerned, this car is well-equipped with front and side airbags. ABS and a brake assist system are included to enhance the braking capabilities of this car. Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), auto-leveling headlights, child safety locks, traction control, stability control, lane-departure warning, crash sensor, drive recorder, Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), first-aid kit and warning triangle, ISOFIX child seat mounting, run-flat indicator, speed limiter, three-point seat belts, cross-traffic alert, and a blind-spot monitor are some of the safety features that accompany this car. BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant also helps the driver keep his or her eyes on the road, and you can change the different functions of the car with a voice command. 

Verdict 

The BMW 7 Series is renowned for providing ultimate luxury and driving pleasure. The 745Le xDrive definitely lives up to the expectations of those who are looking for a full-size luxury and premium sedan. The 7 series has enjoyed great success in the country over several years. The availability of spare parts and maintenance can be done easily. Over the past few years, this car has been performing well when it comes to resale value. Moving forward, given the amazing fuel economy by virtue of a hybrid system and a plethora of standard features, this car is an amazing purchase. 

Stay tuned for more news-related and informative content. Drop your thoughts in the comments section below.