2020 BMW 745e xDrive plug-in hybrid is more potent and stylish

For the 2020 model year, BMW has performed a mid-cycle freshening to its flagship 7 Series lineup that's includes some massaging to the design and tech features.

As for the drivetrains, the gas options either sport minor changes or are completely carryover. However, the plug-in hybrid 7 receives a wholesale makeover.

The 2.0-liter turbo I4 is out and a 3.0-liter turbocharged I6 is in along with a more powerful electric motor.     

Total system output jumps from 322 horsepower to 389 with torque rated at 442 pound-feet.     

All the power is routed to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission helping get the electrified 7 Series to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds.     

The lithium-ion battery pack now stores 12 kilowatt hours of energy instead of previous 9.2, which charges in about 4.5 hours on a level 2 charger.     

Electric driving range is the 2020 BMW 745e is up from a puny 14 miles to a slightly better 16 miles according to the EPA.     

Like its fully gas-propelled brethren, the 745e is immediately recognizable from its predecessor with a more in-your-face kidney grille that's 40 percent larger than before.     

The grille is joined by skinnier headlights, a new bumper with bigger air dams, taller hood, and enlarged front quarter side vents.     

The 2020 BMW 745e xDrive iPerformance starts at $95,550, not including $995 for destination.