The BMW 745Le xDrive, part of the G12 Long wheelbase (LCI, facelift) generation of the 7 Series, represents BMW’s foray into plug-in hybrid luxury sedans. Produced from January 2019 through 2022, this model combined a 3.0-liter inline-six gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering a blend of performance and efficiency. Positioned as a mid-to-high range offering within the 7 Series lineup, the 745Le aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a luxurious experience with reduced emissions and the convenience of electric driving. It was primarily marketed in Europe and North America, catering to increasingly stringent emissions regulations and a growing demand for electrified vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series Long (G12 LCI, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 745Le (394 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | January, 2019 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 2.3-2.6 l/100 km (102.3 – 90.5 US mpg, 122.8 – 108.6 UK mpg, 43.5 – 38.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 52-59 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.3 kg/Hp, 189 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 287.8 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 12 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 355 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the rear seats |
| Recuperation output | 20 kW |
| All-electric range | 50-54 km (31.07 – 33.55 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 15.8-16.3 kWh/100 km (25.43 – 26.23 kWh/100 mi, 133 – 128 MPGe, 6.3 – 6.1 km/kWh, 3.9 – 3.8 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 113 Hp @ 3170 rpm (195.45 lb.-ft. @ 0-2700 rpm) |
| System power | 394 Hp |
| System torque | 600 Nm (442.54 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 286 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 450 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B58B30C |
| Engine displacement | 2998 cm3 (182.95 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | VALVETRONIC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2085 kg (4596.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2705 kg (5963.5 lbs.) |
| Max load | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l (14.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 46 l (12.15 US gal | 10.12 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5260 mm (207.09 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2169 mm (85.39 in.) |
| Height | 1479 mm (58.23 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3210 mm (126.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1611 mm (63.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1640 mm (64.57 in.) |
| Front overhang | 902 mm (35.51 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1148 mm (45.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.9 m (42.32 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive rear wheels, with front wheel drive capability via clutch. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The BMW 745Le xDrive, launched in 2019 as part of the G12 7 Series facelift, represented a significant step in BMW’s electrification strategy. Built on the extended wheelbase version of the G12 platform (also used for the 7 Series), the 745Le combined a refined luxury experience with the benefits of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. This model aimed to provide a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline-powered luxury sedans, particularly in markets with strong incentives for electric vehicle adoption. The “Le” designation signifies “Luxury Efficiency,” highlighting BMW’s focus on combining opulence with reduced environmental impact.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 745Le lies BMW’s B58B30C 3.0-liter inline-six gasoline engine. This engine, a member of the modular B-series engine family, features direct injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and BMW’s VALVETRONIC variable valve timing system. It produces 286 horsepower and 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque. Paired with this is an electric motor, integrated between the engine and the 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, delivering an additional 113 horsepower and 265 Nm (195.45 lb-ft) of torque. The combined system output is a substantial 394 horsepower and 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft). The 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is located under the rear seats, minimizing intrusion into the passenger compartment and lowering the car’s center of gravity. The transmission itself is a sophisticated 8-speed automatic, optimized for both efficiency and smooth shifting, and features a dedicated electric motor for seamless transitions between gasoline and electric power.
Driving Characteristics
The 745Le offers a unique driving experience. In electric-only mode, it provides near-silent operation and brisk acceleration, sufficient for typical urban commutes. The all-electric range, rated between 50-54 km (31-34 miles), allows for emission-free driving on shorter journeys. When the gasoline engine engages, the transition is remarkably smooth, and the combined power output delivers strong performance, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.8 seconds. The 8-speed Steptronic transmission is well-tuned, providing responsive shifts and contributing to the car’s overall refinement. Compared to the 750i with its V8 engine, the 745Le prioritizes efficiency and torque delivery over outright horsepower. While not as aggressively sporty as its V8 sibling, the 745Le offers ample power for confident highway cruising and overtaking.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 745Le xDrive came generously equipped, reflecting its position as a flagship luxury sedan. Standard features included BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included upgraded Bowers & Wilkins audio systems, rear-seat entertainment packages, and various cosmetic enhancements. The interior design mirrored that of other G12 7 Series models, with a focus on high-quality materials and a sophisticated aesthetic. The long wheelbase provided ample rear legroom, enhancing passenger comfort.
Chassis & Braking
The 745Le utilizes a sophisticated chassis design, featuring double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, both incorporating BMW’s air suspension system. This system provides a comfortable ride quality and allows for adjustable ride height. The car is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing strong stopping power. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction in various weather conditions. Due to the added weight of the battery pack, the suspension was specifically tuned to maintain the 7 Series’ renowned handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were optimized to minimize body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 745Le was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of luxury, performance, and efficiency. Reviewers noted the seamless integration of the electric motor and gasoline engine, as well as the car’s comfortable ride and spacious interior. Compared to the 740i (gasoline only) and 750i (V8), the 745Le offered a unique proposition, appealing to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and reduced emissions. While the initial purchase price was higher than the 740i, government incentives and lower running costs helped to offset the difference. The 745Le’s fuel economy figures were significantly better than those of its gasoline-powered counterparts, and its all-electric range provided a practical benefit for daily commutes.
Legacy
The BMW 745Le xDrive represents an important milestone in BMW’s electrification journey. While superseded by newer plug-in hybrid models, the G12 745Le remains a desirable used car, offering a luxurious and technologically advanced driving experience. The B58 engine, known for its reliability, coupled with the robust electric motor and transmission, generally provides good long-term dependability. However, as with any plug-in hybrid, potential buyers should be mindful of battery health and ensure that the charging system is functioning correctly. The 745Le paved the way for BMW’s expanded range of plug-in hybrid and fully electric vehicles, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to sustainable mobility.
