cars news 10: 2017 BMW 740e xDrive iPerformance Headed to Dealerships

BMW is bringing out a late addition to its 7 Series lineup. The plug-in hybrid version is already in production and goes on sale this month for $90,095, a bit above the $85,495 starting price of the comparable gasoline model.

The model, now officially called the 2017 BMW 740e xDrive iPerformance, delivers a maximum output of 322 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. That’s possible, in part, thanks to what BMW calls “the most powerful four-cylinder engine ever fitted in a series-produced BMW.” BMW claims the all-wheel-drive 740e can hit 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds, matching its estimate for the 740i xDrive sedan powered by an inline six-cylinder gas engine. We’ve tested a more powerful 445-hp 750i xDrive reaching 60 mph in 4.3 seconds.

All-electric driving range is estimated at 14 miles by the EPA. Charging takes 7 hours from a residential 120V outlet, but those who want to charge in just under 3 hours can install a BMW Charging Station at their home.

Standard equipment on the 740e includes LED headlights, ambiance exterior lighting, BMW Display Key, ConnectedDrive navigation package, smartphone integration, and iDrive infotainment system with gesture controls. Also standard is auxiliary air conditioning that can be activated from outside the car via smartphone; energy for the heating and AC systems come from the high-voltage lithium-ion battery. Options include a Panoramic Sky Lounge LED Roof, active seat ventilation, the massage function with Vitality Program, and heated front and rear armrests. Another option is a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround system with the Ambient Air package, which fills the cabin with perfume.

Source: BMW