BMW has added yet another plug-in hybrid model to its stable of efficient-focused vehicles. However, this time it’s a big, luxurious 7 Series and not a little sedan or hatchback — the BMW 740e xDrive iPerformance. The BMW 740e xDrive iPerformance is just another addition to BMW’s mission in adding a plug-in hybrid variant to each model line. But it may just be the best yet, according to CAR Magazine, who’s recently had a go in it.

On paper, the BMW 740e seems promising. With a similar powertrain setup to the brilliant BMW X5 xDrive40e (which is brilliant by the way), the 740e packs a 2.0 liter turbocharged engine mated to an electric motor that sends power through and eight-speed ZF automatic. Total system power output is 322 hp (255 hp from the engine and 111 hp from electric motor) and 369 lb-ft of torque. With that much power, even though it’s a hybrid and quite heavy, the BMW 740e can get from 0-60 mph in an impressive 5.3 seconds. But if you want to take it into a crowded European city center, it will do 29 miles of pure EV driving, saving you from any congestion charges that might be enforced.

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What impresses more though, is how the big girl drives. We all know that the new BMW 7 Series is extremely luxurious, highly technologically advanced and sublime to drive. However, it’s still shocking to have a four-cylinder, plug-in hybrid luxury car drive with the sort of verve that the 740e does. CAR claims that the 740e is probably the most fun-to-drive luxury sedan in its class and that when you take it out of the city limits and onto some back roads, it’s actually a good time.

One thing that helps the 740e feel so nimble is its xDrive system, which features BMW’s Active Steering (BMW speak for rear-wheel steering). Rear-steering helps to seemingly shorten the wheelbase, giving the 740e the feeling of being a much smaller car. And this is on top of being the superb luxury car that it already is.

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CAR Magazine’s final verdict on the BMW 740e iPerformance is a positive one. It’s a car that blends wonderful luxury, playful handling and impressive efficiency. It’s an expensive package, admittedly, starting at £76,380 ($101,043). However, if you can afford it, it’s well worth it as it’s one of the best all-around luxury packages on the market.

[Source: CAR]