The BMW 740Le iPerformance xDrive, produced from 2016 to 2019, represents BMW’s initial foray into plug-in hybrid technology within its flagship 7 Series (G12) luxury sedan range. Positioned as a technologically advanced and environmentally conscious option, the 740Le aimed to deliver a blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury. This long-wheelbase variant (G12) was primarily marketed in Europe and select global markets, offering a spacious interior and advanced features alongside its hybrid powertrain. It sat in the mid-to-upper range of the 7 Series lineup, offering a compelling alternative to the traditional gasoline-powered models and the later, more performance-focused 750e xDrive.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series Long (G12) |
| Type (Engine) | 740Le iPerformance (326 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 2.1-2.5 l/100 km (112 – 94.1 US mpg, 134.5 – 113 UK mpg, 47.6 – 40 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 49-56 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.1 kg/Hp, 163 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 250 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 9.2 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 7.4 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 351 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the rear seats |
| Recuperation output | 20 kW |
| All-electric range | 41-45 km (25.48 – 27.96 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 13.2-13.9 kWh/100 km (21.24 – 22.37 kWh/100 mi, 159 – 151 MPGe, 7.6 – 7.2 km/kWh, 4.7 – 4.5 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 113 Hp @ 3170 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 0-3170 rpm) |
| Electric motor torque | 250 Nm @ 0-3170 rpm |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 326 Hp |
| System torque | 500 Nm (368.78 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 258 Hp @ 5000-6500 rpm (129.1 Hp/l) |
| Engine Torque | 400 Nm @ 1550-4400 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1550-4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B48 |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | VALVETRONIC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.25 l (5.55 US qt | 4.62 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.1 l (9.62 US qt | 8.01 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2655 kg (5853.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 655 kg (1444.03 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 | 5238 mm (206.22 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 | 1617 mm (63.66 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1646 mm (64.8 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1148 mm (45.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.25 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.9 m (42.32 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor permanently drive the rear wheels of the vehicle, capable of running in full electric or mixed mode, and if necessary through the electrically or mechanically controlled clutch, the front wheels are driven. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, 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 | Front wheel tires: 225/60 R17; 245/50 R18; 245/45 R19; 245/40 R20; 245/35 R21Rear wheel tires: 225/60 R17; 245/50 R18; 245/45 R19; 275/40 R19; 275/35 R20; 275/30 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 19; 8.5J x 20; 8.5J x 21Rear wheel rims: 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 19; 9.5J x 19; 10J x 20; 10J x 21 |
INTRODUCTION
The BMW 740Le iPerformance, launched in 2016, was a significant step for BMW in the luxury plug-in hybrid segment. Built on the G12 7 Series platform, known for its long wheelbase and emphasis on rear passenger comfort, the 740Le combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. Production continued through 2019, with the model primarily aimed at markets with strong incentives for electric and hybrid vehicles. The “Le” designation signifies “Long Electric,” highlighting the extended wheelbase and electric capability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 740Le lies BMW’s B48 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, part of BMW’s modular engine family, utilizes direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to produce 258 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The engine features BMW’s VALVETRONIC technology, which allows for precise control of valve lift and timing, optimizing efficiency and responsiveness. Coupled with this is a 113 horsepower electric motor, drawing power from a 7.4 kWh (usable) lithium-ion battery pack located under the rear seats. The electric motor delivers 184 lb-ft of torque, available instantly. The combined system output is 326 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission is specifically tuned to work seamlessly with both the combustion engine and the electric motor, offering smooth and efficient gear changes. The transmission incorporates an electrically controlled clutch that allows for all-wheel drive operation, distributing power to the front wheels when needed for enhanced traction.
Driving Characteristics
The 740Le offers a unique driving experience, blending the refinement of a luxury sedan with the instant torque of an electric motor. In electric-only mode, the car provides silent and smooth acceleration, capable of covering up to 45 kilometers (28 miles) on a full charge. Switching to hybrid mode allows the car to automatically manage the interplay between the engine and motor, prioritizing efficiency. The 740Le doesn’t quite match the outright acceleration of the 750i or 750Li models, but its 5.3-second 0-60 mph time is still respectable for a large luxury sedan. The Steptronic transmission is programmed for efficiency, often prioritizing higher gears to maximize fuel economy. Compared to the 740i (non-hybrid), the 740Le feels slightly heavier due to the battery pack, which can subtly impact handling dynamics. However, the lower center of gravity contributes to a more planted feel in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 740Le iPerformance came generously equipped, reflecting its position as a premium model. Standard features included BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats with memory function, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras included features like massaging seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, and upgraded leather options. The interior trim was typically finished with high-quality wood or aluminum accents. Exterior styling cues included subtle “iPerformance” badging and unique wheel designs to differentiate it from other 7 Series models.
Chassis & Braking
The 740Le utilizes a sophisticated chassis setup, featuring double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, both incorporating air suspension as standard. The air suspension allows for adjustable ride height and damping, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Brakes are ventilated discs all around, providing ample stopping power. The regenerative braking system captures energy during deceleration, helping to recharge the battery and improve efficiency. The car’s weight distribution is carefully managed to optimize handling balance, despite the added weight of the battery pack. Stabilizer bars are used front and rear to minimize body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 740Le iPerformance was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of luxury, efficiency, and technology. However, some reviewers noted that the hybrid powertrain didn’t deliver the same level of performance as the traditional gasoline engines. Compared to the 740i, the 740Le offered significantly better fuel economy and lower emissions, but at a higher initial cost. Against competitors like the Mercedes-Benz S 500 e, the 740Le offered a more engaging driving experience and a more advanced infotainment system. The 740Le’s real-world fuel economy varied depending on driving conditions and charging habits, but owners typically reported achieving impressive mileage in hybrid mode.
Legacy
The BMW 740Le iPerformance played a crucial role in establishing BMW as a leader in the luxury plug-in hybrid market. The powertrain technology and engineering advancements developed for the 740Le paved the way for subsequent hybrid and electric models from BMW. On the used car market, the 740Le remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a luxurious and efficient sedan. The long-term reliability of the hybrid powertrain has proven to be generally good, with many owners reporting few issues. However, potential buyers should be aware of the cost of replacing the battery pack, which can be significant. The 740Le represents a pivotal moment in BMW’s transition towards electrification, showcasing the brand’s commitment to sustainable mobility.
