2024 BMW 7 Series Hybrid

The hybrid BMW 7 Series is a new variant in the lineup that should help the already prestigious model compete with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, or newcomers like the G80, which have compelling hybrid or electrified versions, respectively. The 750e xDrive comes equipped with a turbocharged inline-six paired with an electric motor for a combined 483 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This isn't as much as the more potent 760i, but it still provides plenty of performance balanced with great comfort and improved fuel economy. It also boasts a competitive all-electric range of 35 miles. The 2024 7 Series Hybrid aims to be the most luxurious full-size hybrid executive, and with a top-quality spacious cabin, a good list of tech, and decent handling, it may just be the one to beat.

The starting price of the new BMW 7 Series Hybrid is over the six-figure mark at $107,000 but it won't cost you as much as the Merc S-Class, let alone the hybrid variant. You'll need to budget for the $995 destination charge as well as dealer markups, registration, and licensing fees, though.

With power outputs smack in the middle between the 740i and 760i, the 2024 BMW 7 Series Hybrid is able to balance performance with silent luxury quite well. It gets to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, but it can only reach a top speed of 127 mph. This is plenty, though, as the non-M 7 was never meant to be a track star. The suspension proves that its focus is on comfort, as road abrasions go almost completely unnoticed unless they are successive small bumps, which can upset the cabin a little. That being said, there is a good amount of weight to the steering, which is otherwise sharp with electronic assistance and decidedly accurate. Feedback is decent, but nowhere near the level you'd need to feel confident throwing this large car into corners at unreasonable speeds and expecting to come out on the other side going the direction you intended. Luckily, there are plenty of standard driver-assistance features equipped to ensure you don't lose control of your cruiser, and you can even upgrade to semi-autonomous driving if you prefer a more chauffeured experience. On that note, the back seat is a great place to be, as it is more spacious than the front and offers several decadent upgrades, such as the rear entertainment theater.

There is a lot to like about the 7 Series Hybrid, assuming you can look past its unfortunate face. That oversized grille shouldn't be an insurmountable obstacle, though, and once inside, you'll see that looks are only skin deep, as the cabin is luxuriously appointed, especially since the 750e upgrades to extended Merino leather upholstery. Some tech should have been made standard, such as heated front and rear seats, but the price of adding these is just a fraction of the overall cost of the car, so most buyers will tick all the options without even thinking. You definitely get BMW levels of performance and handling, even though the executive sedan is tuned more toward high-class comfort, which gives the 750e an edge over more one-trick ponies like the Mercedes S-Class, and those who know that if they take care of their pennies, their dollars will take care of themselves will appreciate the improved fuel economy and 35-mile all-electric range. In review, the new hybrid 7 Series is a welcome addition to the lineup that may best embody the high-value proposition of a performance luxury executive sedan - a mouthful to be sure, but it has a nice ring to it.

Being cheaper than most of its rivals in the USA, the new BMW 7 Series Hybrid sedan can get away with asking for little extra money for the desirable options. Even if you tick the Premium and Executive packages, add the panoramic LED sunroof, and upgrade to the 40-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system, you'll still be paying less than you would for a hybrid executive sedan from Mercedes. The rear-seat theater screen may be pushing it a little, but if you're going to be spending any length of time in the back, it may be worth spoiling yourself a little.