With the novel appeal of “hybrid” cars starting to wane, the backlash has begun, with many questioning the real “green” benefits of these vehicles in comparison to their gasoline or diesel counterparts. At a significantly higher price point and often delivering only slightly better fuel economy, it is reasonable to question whether the hybrid trend is “green washing” rather than anything of qualitative substance. Despite this skepticism, the luxury 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 undoubtedly has a place in the hybrid segment.

A hybrid executive saloon like the ActiveHybrid makes sense for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, the customers who can afford the gas/diesel versions of these saloon cars can probably afford the extra $5000-$10000 to purchase the hybrid version. The hybrid version offers a quantifiable bonus in terms of its fuel efficiency, but is still exceptionally fast off the line. There are three production luxury hybrid saloons on the market at present (The Lexus LS 600h L, Mercedes-Benz S400 and the BMW Active Hybrid 7) and the ActiveHybrid 7 is arguably, the best of the bunch. The award-winning hybrid system and battery packs are actually common to both the BMW and Mercedes models, having been developed in partnership by Daimler-Benz.

The dimensions and positioning of the power pack have been moderated with regard to the compact lithium-ion batteries. The position of the power pack is not ideal when compared to that of the Mercedes S400 whose batteries are located in the engine compartment. Comparatively the ActiveHybrid 7’s batteries can be found in the trunk. Unfortunately, this reduces substantial storage capacity (about 40 litres). Not to worry though – those who require that extra cargo-carry space can order the ski pass-through optional extra.

In terms of its drive, the BMW excels ahead of its segment counterparts. It is much faster than the BMW, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 4.9 seconds, compared to Mercedes’ time of 6.9 seconds. This is largely due to the fact that the ActiveHybrid 7’s electric motor is linked to a twin-turbo gas V8 (whereas the S400 is linked to a V6 gasoline engine). The ActiveHybrid 7 has numerous other performance advantages, even when assessed in comparison to the other models such as BMW 750Li. With 455 horsepower and 697 Nm of torque, the vehicle’s performance and sprint ability is unrepentantly impressive, let alone the fact it is a hybrid model. The engine fares well with its throaty exhaust note and 8-speed automatic transmission. Shifts are smooth and brisk, a pleasant deviation from that presupposed notion of a hard-saddled, whiny hybrid.

The ActiveHybrid 7 incorporates a variety of ‘hybrid-esque’ (and classic) features reminiscent of the BMW genes. Standard features including regenerative brakes, automatic start/stop system and ABS brakes. Unfortunately, the start/stop system designed to act as a “fuel saver” works in normal driving mode only. The fuel economy is estimated to sit around 9.4L/100 km, which is great when compared to the 750Li’s 11.4L/100 km. Sport mode does not accommodate this feature though. The transfer between the gas and electric motor is seamless once driving, however flooring the accelerator too quickly does cause a bit of a stammer.

The handling is adequate when compared to its direct segment counterparts, however the vehicle is not the best for sharply carving the corners. The long wheelbase does offer some necessary stability though.

Conclusively, the ActiveHybrid 7 certainly holds its own amongst its segment competitors. While at a higher price point, it defies some of those negative presuppositions surrounding hybrid cars and is an adept, capable competitor in its specific field.