The Best Years For Bmw Activehybrid 740 And Some To Avoid

The BMW ActiveHybrid 740 was BMW's foray into the world of hybrid luxury sedans, aiming to blend performance with improved fuel efficiency. Understanding the nuances of each model year is crucial for potential buyers looking for a reliable and enjoyable ownership experience. This guide will delve into the best and worst years of the ActiveHybrid 740, providing detailed information to help you make an informed decision.

BMW ActiveHybrid 740: Model Year Comparison

Detailed Explanations

2013 (First Year of the ActiveHybrid 740)

The 2013 ActiveHybrid 740 marked BMW's initial attempt to integrate hybrid technology into their flagship 7 Series. It featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine working in conjunction with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 350 horsepower. It also boasts an 8-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifting. Regenerative braking helps recharge the battery during deceleration, and the auto start-stop feature further enhances fuel efficiency in city driving. However, being the first year of a new hybrid system, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of early-adopter issues.

2014 (Minor Infotainment Updates)

The 2014 model year brought only minor updates, primarily focusing on the infotainment system. The hybrid powertrain remained largely unchanged, offering similar performance and fuel economy to the 2013 model. While some drivers reported slight improvements in real-world fuel economy, these were not significant enough to warrant choosing the 2014 model over the 2013 solely for that reason. The core issues related to hybrid system complexity persisted.

2015 (No Significant Changes)

The 2015 ActiveHybrid 740 saw no major changes compared to the previous year. It retained the same powertrain, infotainment system, and overall design. This means that the potential benefits and drawbacks of the 2014 model also apply to the 2015 version. Prospective buyers can expect a similar driving experience and reliability record.

2016 (Last Year of Production)

The 2016 model year was the final year of production for the ActiveHybrid 740. As such, there were no significant updates or changes. While this might suggest that any early production kinks would have been worked out, the end-of-production status also raises concerns about the long-term availability of specific parts, particularly those related to the hybrid system. It's crucial to factor this into the ownership equation.

Turbocharged 3.0-liter Inline-6 Engine

This engine is the gasoline heart of the ActiveHybrid 740. Its turbocharging provides a significant boost in power and torque compared to a naturally aspirated engine of similar displacement. The inline-6 configuration is known for its smoothness and balanced operation, contributing to a refined driving experience. This engine is generally considered reliable, but regular maintenance, including oil changes and cooling system checks, is essential to prevent issues.

Electric Motor and Hybrid System

The electric motor works in conjunction with the gasoline engine to provide additional power and improve fuel economy. The hybrid system manages the interplay between the two power sources, seamlessly switching between electric-only mode, gasoline-only mode, and combined operation. The complexity of this system, involving high-voltage batteries, inverters, and sophisticated control software, is a key consideration. Repairs to the hybrid system can be significantly more expensive than repairs to a traditional gasoline engine.

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

The 8-speed automatic transmission provides smooth and efficient gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. With its wide gear ratio spread, it allows the engine to operate in its optimal range for various driving conditions. Regular transmission fluid changes are crucial to maintain its performance and longevity.

Regenerative Braking

Regenerative braking captures kinetic energy during deceleration and converts it into electricity, which is then used to recharge the hybrid battery. This system not only improves fuel efficiency but also reduces wear on the conventional brake pads. However, the regenerative braking system can sometimes feel slightly different compared to traditional braking systems, requiring some adjustment for drivers.

Auto Start-Stop

The auto start-stop feature automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a complete stop, such as at a traffic light. This helps to reduce fuel consumption and emissions in city driving. While effective, some drivers find the engine restarting process to be slightly jarring.

Potential for Early Hybrid System Glitches

As with any new technology, early versions of hybrid systems can be prone to glitches and unexpected issues. These can range from minor software problems to more serious hardware failures. Potential buyers should be aware of this risk and carefully inspect the vehicle's service history for any reported problems.

Complexity of the Hybrid System and Higher Repair Costs

The complexity of the hybrid system means that repairs can be more expensive than for a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle. Specialized diagnostic equipment and trained technicians are required to properly diagnose and repair hybrid system components. This can lead to higher labor costs and potentially longer repair times.

Relatively Small Trunk Space Due to Battery Pack

The hybrid battery pack takes up space, which reduces the available trunk volume compared to the non-hybrid 7 Series. This can be a significant drawback for buyers who frequently need to transport large items or luggage.

Fewer Available Parts in the Future (2016 Model)

As the 2016 model was the last year of production, there is a possibility that parts specific to the ActiveHybrid 740, particularly those related to the hybrid system, may become more difficult and expensive to obtain in the future. This is a factor to consider for long-term ownership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which year of the ActiveHybrid 740 is the most reliable?

While none are without potential issues, the 2015 and 2016 models likely benefited from minor improvements and debugging compared to the initial 2013 release, but longevity of parts is a concern for the 2016 model. Pre-purchase inspections are essential.

What are the most common problems with the ActiveHybrid 740?

Common issues include hybrid system malfunctions, battery degradation, and glitches in the infotainment system. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate these risks.

Is the ActiveHybrid 740 expensive to maintain?

Yes, due to the complexity of the hybrid system, maintenance and repairs can be more expensive than for a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle. This is especially true if the hybrid system requires specialized attention.

Does the ActiveHybrid 740 offer good fuel economy?

Yes, the ActiveHybrid 740 generally offers better fuel economy than the non-hybrid 740, especially in city driving, thanks to the electric motor and regenerative braking. However, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving habits.

Is the ActiveHybrid 740 a good car to buy used?

It can be a good option if you're looking for a luxurious sedan with improved fuel economy, but you should carefully inspect the vehicle's service history and consider the potential for higher repair costs. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.

Conclusion

Choosing the best year for a used BMW ActiveHybrid 740 depends on your priorities and risk tolerance. While the 2015 and 2016 models might offer slight improvements in reliability, all model years share the potential for costly hybrid system repairs. Thorough research, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection, and realistic expectations are essential for a satisfying ownership experience.