BMW 745e
The BMW 745e iPerformance is the six-cylinder plug-in hybrid flagship of the G11 7 Series facelift — pairing the B58 twin-turbocharged inline-six with an electric motor for 394 hp of combined output, a 48–57 km WLTP electric range, and the performance credentials to match its luxury positioning.
Overview
Introduced in 2019 as part of the G11 7 Series facelift, the BMW 745e iPerformance replaced and significantly upgraded the 740e. Where the 740e used the four-cylinder B48, the 745e employs BMW's acclaimed B58 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six, producing 286 hp in combustion form. Combined with a 113 hp electric motor integrated into the 8-speed ZF Steptronic transmission, the 745e delivers 394 hp and 600 Nm — enough to match the normally aspirated figures of the 750i while offering genuine electrified efficiency.
The 12.0 kWh lithium-ion battery provides up to 57 km of electric-only range under WLTP measurement — a figure that covers most urban commutes without combustion involvement. The onboard charger operates at 3.7 kW (Type 2 AC), with a full charge completed in approximately 3 hours. xDrive all-wheel drive is standard on the 745e, using the mechanical AWD system enhanced by the electric motor's torque contribution. Three driving modes — eDrive, Hybrid, and Sport — govern the energy split. BMW's predictive energy management system also uses route data to pre-condition the battery for optimal efficiency.
In Azerbaijan, the 745e makes a strong case as the most sophisticated 7 Series proposition for buyers who want both performance and efficiency. The B58 engine provides genuine highway and overtaking capability that the 740e's four-cylinder cannot match, while the electric range meaningfully reduces urban fuel consumption. The 745e's relative rarity in Baku compared to the 740i and 730i means it commands interest as an unusual specification. BMW Baku's iPerformance-qualified technicians can service the system.
745e in Pictures
Exterior design, cabin layout, and real-world use reference images. Broken links gracefully fall back to text tiles.
Key Specifications
- Combustion engine: B58B30 3.0L twin-turbocharged inline-six, 286 hp
- Electric motor: 113 hp, integrated into 8-speed ZF Steptronic transmission
- Combined system power: 394 hp / 600 Nm
- 0–100 km/h: 5.2 seconds (xDrive standard)
- Electric-only range: up to 57 km (WLTP); 45–50 km typical real-world
- Battery capacity: 12.0 kWh lithium-ion; 3.7 kW onboard charger (Type 2)
- Drivetrain: xDrive (all-wheel drive) only; eDrive / Hybrid / Sport modes
- Available as standard wheelbase (G11) and long wheelbase G12 (745Le)
Variant Comparison
| Variant | Engine | Power | 0–100 km/h | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 745e xDrive (G11) | B58 3.0L TT I6 + motor | 394 hp | 5.2 sec | Performance PHEV flagship |
| 745Le xDrive (G12) | B58 3.0L TT I6 + motor | 394 hp | 5.4 sec | LWB rear luxury PHEV |
Competitor Snapshot
Competitor choice in Azerbaijan should account not only for headline specs, but for service ecosystem, parts availability, and ownership confidence over your actual routes.
| Model | Core Strength | Main Compromise (Local Context) |
|---|---|---|
| Mercedes S 580e (W222/W223) | V8-based plug-in hybrid, stronger combustion character, supreme brand cachet | Higher price; the B58 six-cylinder in 745e is more rev-happy and mechanically engaging |
| Volvo S90 T8 Recharge | Competitive PHEV range, excellent interior quality, lower running costs | Significantly less prestige and cabin size; not a direct 7 Series-class rival |
| Lexus LS 600h (XF50) | Toyota-grade hybrid reliability, refined cabin, strong value proposition | Non-plug-in hybrid — no electric-only range capability; less dynamic |
| Porsche Panamera 4S E-Hybrid (971) | Outstanding performance PHEV, best-in-class driving dynamics, strong residuals | More expensive; sports GT focus rather than passenger luxury emphasis |
Repair & Service in Azerbaijan
BMW has an established service presence in Baku through authorised dealerships and independent specialists familiar with the brand. Parts supply for common maintenance items is generally reliable, though specialist components for performance models and older generations may require additional lead time.
- B58 engine service: oil and filter change per BMW Longlife OBC prompts; B58 is one of BMW's most proven engines with an excellent service record
- PHEV battery cooling: the battery thermal management circuit requires coolant inspection at every major service — never neglect this on a PHEV flagship
- Electric motor bearings: sealed for life in normal operation, but vibration at low EV speeds warrants inspection if felt through the drivetrain
- Regenerative braking: brake pad life is extended by regeneration but corrosion builds on infrequently used disc surfaces — inspect discs annually
- xDrive transfer case: fluid service at 60,000 km to maintain AWD engagement quality and prevent wear
- Charging system: annual inspection of the onboard charger control module and Type 2 socket integrity — moisture ingress is the most common fault source
Ownership Cost Estimator (Azerbaijan)
Adjust these values for your driving profile. All figures are estimates for planning purposes only.
- Estimated annual energy use: 4400 kWh
- Estimated annual charging cost: $616
- Total annual ownership estimate: $7916
- Average monthly ownership estimate: $660
- With daily charging, real-world fuel consumption for urban use in Baku can be 2–4 L/100km — the PHEV case is strongest for those who genuinely exploit electric range
- B58 combustion engine: requires premium synthetic oil (BMW Longlife 04) and RON 98 for maximum performance; RON 95 acceptable for normal use
- Battery capacity: 12 kWh is meaningfully larger than the 740e's 9.2 kWh — range degradation is proportionally smaller over the same cycle count
- 745e is xDrive only — AWD system service requirements (transfer case and rear differential fluid) apply in addition to PHEV-specific maintenance
- Higher insurance bracket than 740e or 730i due to combined output rating — verify category with your insurer before purchase
Used 745e Buying Checklist
Inspect each point thoroughly before committing to a purchase. Request service records, VIN validation, and any recall completion documentation.
- Battery health check: request a BMW ISTA diagnostic printout showing battery state of health and cell balance — any cell divergence warrants caution
- Full PHEV mode test: drive in eDrive mode to confirm smooth electric-only operation; transition to Sport for full combined power delivery
- B58 engine: check for oil leaks at the rear main seal and valve cover — both are manageable but indicate maintenance quality
- Charging function: test Type 2 charging with wallbox or test cable; confirm charge acceptance and display accuracy
- xDrive operation: test in a low-traction situation if possible, or request BMW diagnostic confirmation of AWD engagement parameters
- Full luxury audit: test all rear seat functions, Executive Lounge option (if specified), glass roof, ambient lighting, and Bowers & Wilkins audio
- Software version: confirm the vehicle has received all available iDrive and PHEV software updates — BMW Baku can verify and update
- Underfloor inspection: battery pack and charging cable routing should be free of damage from kerbs or speed bumps
745e FAQ — Azerbaijan Buyers
What is the practical difference between the 740e and 745e?
The 745e is a meaningfully better car in almost every respect. The B58 six-cylinder provides stronger mid-range power and a more prestigious engine note than the 740e's four-cylinder. The larger 12 kWh battery provides significantly more electric range. xDrive is standard. The primary trade-off is a higher purchase price. For buyers who are going to use the 7 Series for mixed urban and motorway driving, the 745e's extra power and range justify the premium clearly.
How does the 745e compare to the non-hybrid 750i?
The 750i (N63 4.4L twin-turbo V8, 462 hp) provides stronger outright performance and a more characterful V8 experience. The 745e counters with dramatically better urban fuel economy when charged, lower exhaust emissions, and the ability to operate silently in residential areas. For a buyer with charging infrastructure who covers significant urban distance, the 745e's total cost of ownership over time will typically be lower. For pure driving character on open roads, the 750i V8 holds an emotional edge.
Is the G11 745e available in long-wheelbase form?
Yes — the long-wheelbase G12 version is badged the 745Le. It shares the same B58 + electric motor powertrain and combined 394 hp output, with 130 mm of additional wheelbase dedicated to rear passenger space. The 745Le is the choice for buyers who are primarily rear passengers or who require the executive rear suite functionality. Performance is marginally softer (5.4 vs 5.2 seconds) due to added weight.
Should You Buy the BMW 745e?
The BMW 745e iPerformance strikes the best balance in the G11 PHEV lineup. The B58 engine provides power befitting a flagship saloon, the 12 kWh battery delivers practical electric range for daily use in Baku, and xDrive ensures all-season capability. For a buyer with charging access who wants the 7 Series experience without the running costs of a V8, the 745e is the most compelling answer in the entire G11 range.
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