The 2012 BMW 7-Series Hybrid competes in the arena of super luxury cars. It boasts a dynamic performance, well-appointed interiors and better fuel economy.
The 7 Series Hybrid indeed is a great package but some may be dismayed with the price.
Indeed, it is one of the most luxurious and the most powerful in its class but it is also one of the most expensive.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Hybrid Sedan | Base Price: $97,000.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 gallons (79L) | MPG: 17 city / 26 hwy |
| Length: 199.8 in. (507.4 cm) | Wheel Base: 120.9 in. (307.0 cm) |
| Height: 58.3 in. (148.0 cm) | Width: 74.9 in. (190.2 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 4795 lbs (2175 kg) | Ground Clearance: 5.9 in. (15 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 13.0 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 4.4L Twin Turbo V8 DOHC Hybrid | Compression Ratio: 10.0: 1 |
| Horsepower: 455 HP | Max RPM: 5500-6000 RPM |
| Torque: 515 lb-ft @ 2000-3000 rpm | Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic |
| 0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds | Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h) |
| Option:750Li 4.4L V8 Hybrid | MSRP: $101,000; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy |
Engine
The 7 Series Hybrid comes with a twin-turbo 4.4 liter V8 engine that is paired to an electric motor. Combined, it delivers 455 horsepower and 515 lbs/ft of torque. The 7 Series Hybrid has an automatic 8-speed transmission. As far as power and transmission are concerned, the Hybrid brings more than what its gas only version could: 55 more horsepower and two additional gears.
Performance
Hybrid cars do not pay particular attention to performance but the 7 Series Hybrid clearly wants to break the mold. Most test drivers are impressed about its engine that is more powerful than the V8 in its gas only version. In fact, the 7 Series Hybrid is even more powerful than the Mercedes Benz S550 and the Porsche Panamera S. And although the 7 Series Hybrid is heavier than its gas powered counterpart, it does not sacrifice the quality of handling. It is nimble for its large size.
Exterior
The BMW 7 Series Hybrid seems to look long with its hood and the lines that connect it to the rear. This style, nevertheless, makes the car look smooth. There is a slight sign of aggressiveness because of its stance and the angular lines on the hood. These subtle details suggest the traits of the car when it hits the road.
Interior
The cabin of the 7 Series Hybrid is spacious and the interior is made of high quality materials. The interior is also generous on standard features. We are pleased about its iDrive system because it has become easier to operate. The seats provide adequate room, support and comfort.
You will have no problems about the seats even if you are taller than an average person. The headroom and legroom are adequate.
Safety
Because the federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety do not crash test super luxury cars, they cannot provide safety details for the 7 Series Hybrid. Nevertheless, the car is packed with safety features such as anti lock brakes, airbags, active head restraints and other options. These options include side and rearview cameras, a night vision, blind spot monitoring and lane departure alarm systems.
Reliability
The 7-Series Hybrid comes with a 4-year standard warranty. During the warranty period, owners can have 24 hour roadside assistance and the scheduled maintenance after one year is free. This reliability is average in its class.
Pros
The ActiveHybrid 7 has a powerful engine, excellent handling and better fuel economy. It has a spacious cabin, luxurious interior and comfortable seats. Its high tech features are more user-friendly and it has lots of attractive safety features. The car looks good, too.
Cons
The 7-Series Hybrid is expensive. It also has a start-stop system that is abrupt.
The only deterrent in the 7 Series Hybrid is its price. But if you can afford the 2012 BMW 7 Series Hybrid, you can certainly go home with a great hybrid car.
There are three other vehicles that the ActiveHybrid 7 may be compared to, the Mercedes S400 Hybrid (MSRP $91,850; 19 city / 25 hwy), the electric powered Fisker Karma (MSRP $95,900), and the higher priced Lexus LS600h (MSRP $112,750; 19 city / 23 hwy).
Overall Rating
75 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 adds an iPod/USB adapter. The following features are no longer standard but are available as options: Anthracite Headliner, Leather-covered Dashboard, Headup Display, Active Front Seats and Ventilated Front Seats. A 6-disc DVD changer is added to Rear Seat Entertainment Package.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“The 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 is both more powerful and more fuel-efficient than its 750i sibling, but it’s also considerably pricier.”Edmunds
