BMW’s flagship car has received the most extensive model update in BMW Group history and is claimed to set a “new benchmark” for the luxury segment.
The four-year-old, seventh-generation BMW 7 Series has been given a full Neue Klasse redesign.
It's so the limousine can keep pace with newly updated luxury rivals, including the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and EQS.
The 7 Series continues to be sold in both plug-in hybrid and electric (badged i7) forms, with the EV to arrive first in September and the PHEV shortly after.
The main changes have been made to the EV, where a new 112.5kWh battery has been fitted (up from 105.7kWh), which uses the same 'Gen6' cylindrical cells as the new iX3 SUV and incoming i3 saloon.
This increases the range significantly, from 623km (387 miles) before to 727km (452 miles) in its most efficient form. Its maximum charging rate is also increased, from 195kW to 250kW.
The electric version also receives the iX3’s electrically excited synchronous motors, which are more efficient than before – another reason for the increased maximum range.
All variants use a dual-motor powertrain, with outputs ranging from 449bhp and 442lb ft in the 50 xDrive to 671bhp and 749lb ft in the M70 xDrive. The range-topper can hit 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in 3.8 seconds.
The underpinnings of the plug-in hybrid have also been refreshed: the two variants receive BMW’s updated straight-six petrol engine with a new turbocharger, plus a new electric motor.
In the entry-level 750e xDrive, these combine for 482bhp and 516lb ft. In the more performance-oriented M760e xDrive, the engine’s power is increased to 420bhp and overall output to 604bhp and 590lb ft – 40bhp more than before. This nets a 0-100km/h (0-62mph) time of 4.2 seconds.
Unlike with the i7 EV, energy for the motor comes from the same 18.7kWh, 'Gen5' battery as before, offering an unchanged electric-only range of 80km (50 miles). As standard, all 7 Series models, regardless of powertrain, feature adaptive dampers and active rear steering.
Changes on the outside are less pronounced, but the 7 Series’ design has been updated to match the new Neue Klasse look introduced by the iX3. This is most notable at the front, where it gets thinner lights (embedded with crystals that sparkle), new air intakes and a new grille design with horizontal slats.
At the rear, the 7 Series looks nearly identical to the i3, with new lights that are designed to emphasise its width. Alloy wheels are 22in as standard. “We’re merging Neue Klasse with luxury. This car is all about presence,” said Max Missoni, BMW’s lead designer for luxury models. “The grille stands proud, and the eyes are focused.”
Inside, the new 7 Series is the first BMW to feature a touchscreen for the front passenger – a feature that is already available in Audi and Mercedes luxury cars.
The 14.6-inch unit is fitted as standard. The cabin has also been given a Neue Klasse makeover, receiving the same 17.9-inch slanted central touchscreen and steering wheel as the iX3.
The instrument cluster has also been removed, with BMW's new 43.3inch-long ‘Panoramic iDrive’ display being fitted in its place. As in the iX3, this runs across the length of the dashboard just under the driver’s eyeline and displays key details such as vehicle speed and state of charge.
In the rear, the 31.3in 8K cinema screen returns paired with a 35-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system. Alcantara-trimmed and fully reclinable Executive Lounge chairs can be optioned for rear passengers.
Missoni noted that the rear of the 7 Series' cabin has a “cleaner” design than before, adding that “any elements that could be distracting are reduced to a minimum”. “This is a car for people who drive the world,” he said. “It is a private mobile retreat that invites you to relax.”
All models get automatically opening doors, similar to those offered by BMW's sibling brand, Rolls-Royce. Personalisation options are once again extensive, with more than 700 interior material combinations (including leather, metal and crystal glass) and 500 exterior colour combinations available. And for the first time, the 7 Series can be specced in a two-tone finish.
