Many of the changes come from the new engine. The new ActiveHybrid 7 uses the same six-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine as the 740i, instead of the V8 used in the first generation model. A new eight-speed gearbox, plus revised hybrid system with uprated electric motor and lithium ion battery also help improve on the car’s environmental performance.

The efficiency benefits come with a minimal drop in performance. With the new drivetrain, the ActiveHybrid 7 offers a combined 349bhp and sprints to 62mph in 5.7 seconds, compared to 459bhp and 4.9-seconds for its predecessor. Vitally, the model offers a 14% drop in consumption compared to a conventional, and less powerful, 740i saloon.

Drivers can also use the electric motor offer a performance boost for the petrol engine under hard acceleration, while brake energy regeneration, start/stop technology and an ECO PRO mode with the same high-speed coasting function as the ActiveHybrid 3 and ActiveHybrid 5 help boost efficiency. It can also run purely on electric power for up to 2.5 miles and at speeds under 37mph, ideal for silent inner-city chauffeuring.

BMW has yet to indicate predicted UK pricing for the new ActiveHybrid 7.