Air magazine

First up for our “sheer driving plea- sure” we have the fastest hybrid sedan currently on the market in the form of BMW’s Luxury ActiveHybrid 7. With a 0 to 100km/h time of just 4.9 seconds in such a large car, it’s clear that it’s going to be blowing some smoke to get there. This ActiveHybrid uses a mild-hybrid technology to offer assistance to the twin-turbo V8 engine. Kinetic energy generated while braking and while not accelerating charges the lithium-ion bat- tery mounted in the trunk. The battery then powers the electric motors, which assist when accelerating, boosting the performance. When stuck in traffic, the engine automatically cuts out to save emissions, and the electric motor fires it back up again once the light turns green.

BMW’s own tagline for the 7 mentions “elegance for everyday and to make an
impression,” and while its eco-friendly credentials are slightly dubious with 25mpg, it certainly makes an impres- sion. Inside and out, we are treated to the usual precision German engineering and ultra high quality finish. Packed with ev- erything you would expect from a top-of- the-line marque, BMW ConnectedDrive brings all the latest technology to the driver. Night vision with person recogni- tion assists on those long drives home,
a “heads up display” provides access to all critical info without the need to glance away from the road, and side view gives camera assistance for parking or driving in confined areas. Of course the important thing for us is the trunk space, which is unimpeded by the small battery and allows for ample storage. Outside it does mention the “hybrid” features on the trunk lid and C pillars, but it’s still a quintessential luxury cruiser.

For the true environmental connoisseur, it is always better to select homegrown, local produce for its freshness and lower carbon footprint. With that in mind, we cast our eyes over the Lexus LS 600h Luxury High performance saloon. This V8 with VVT-iE and high-output, permanent-magnet, electric drive motor with regenerative breaking is closer to the BMW, but shares more of the features of the Porsche. Permanent four-wheel drive and the ability to run solely on electric power constitute similarities, but the size and weight distribution of this car puts it well behind the other two in terms of handling. From an economic point of view, the 30mpg figure is quite respect- able for a car of this size and comfort level.

Within the confines of the luxurious cabin, all the expected features are in place. The new LCD display cluster incorporates a Lexus hard drive based navigation system as well as a backup camera. Ubiquitous iPhone/MP3 USB integration through the 19-speaker Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound audio system, combined with a DVD player, provides ample in-car entertainment for both driver and passengers. The Advanced Parking Guidance System provides hands-free parallel parking, which is certain to spook passengers. Overall, it’s everything you have come to expect from a top-of-the-line Lexus. Mounted behind the rear seats, the Hybrid Synergy does eat considerably into the trunk space, so it may be more suitable for a trip for four to the driving range than to the course.
While all three models are close enough in price and specifications, the Porsche comes in closest to the flag on the right side of green. Sorry, I had to do it.