BMW has unveiled the latest generation of its range-topping 7 Series, bringing greater technology, electrification and style to the luxury saloon segment.
The German firm has left no stone unturned, promising big advances compared to the already excellent outgoing 7 Series. But what are the key things you need to know about this new BMW? Let’s take a look…
Electric i7 makes debut
BMW has been teasing its new i7 for some time, and now it’s time for this electric luxury saloon to take the limelight. Sitting alongside the rest of the 7 Series line-up, the i7 will be the first version of this new model available from launch.
Using a 102kWh battery and twin electric motors producing 537bhp and 745Nm of torque, the i7 is able to get from 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds, though even more powerful versions will follow in the future.
Boasting BMW’s latest battery technology, the i7 is able to travel for up to a claimed 388 miles on a single charge, while bringing charging speeds of up to 195kW – enabling 106 miles of range to be added in just 10 minutes.
Sold purely with electrification in UK, with new hybrids available
While BMW will sell standard petrol and diesel 7 Series models in other markets, here in the UK the brand is reaffirming its commitment to electrification, as this new model will be sold purely as an EV (the i7) or as a plug-in hybrid.
A choice of PHEV versions will be offered, including the 483bhp 750e and 563bhp M760e, with the latter being worked on by BMW’s M division. These hybrids also use new high-voltage batteries, which increase the usable energy capacity to 18.7kWh, which is almost double that of the outgoing car. With more than 50 miles of electric driving said to be possible from a single charge, as well as faster charger speeds than before, there’s plenty to look forward to with these new hybrid 7 Series models.
Striking new design
The 7 Series is a true statement car for BMW, and this new model is certainly not a model that will go unnoticed. Boasting a brand new design that will be used across the German firm’s luxury models – and to separate it from more mainstream BMWs – it features cool split twin headlights, which are even optionally available with Swarovski crystals to create a unique lighting pattern.
The large kidney grille also illuminates as standard, while a two-tone paint scheme is available on the 7 Series for the first time – a touch usually reserved for some of the most expensive luxury cars, such as Bentleys and Rolls-Royces.
Adopts BMW's latest infotainment systems
Unsurprisingly the new 7 Series and i7 use BMW’s latest interior technology, as seen on the new iX. This includes a ‘Curved Display’ – a driver-centric layout that merges a large 14.9-inch touchscreen with a 12.3-inch digital dial display in one neat display.
Another new feature is an ‘Interaction Bar’, which is essentially a crystalline surface that wraps around the interior of the car, which can be used by touch to operate elements such as the climate control and even activating the hazard lights.
New cinema-like Theatre Screen in the rear
With many using cars like the 7 Series as a chauffeur vehicle, it’s arguably the rear that’s the most important part of the BMW, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. With this model being wider, longer and taller than its predecessor, it’s more practical than ever, and is now exclusively sold in long wheelbase form. BMW also says rear headroom has improved significantly.
But the stand-out feature with the new 7 Series is its optional ‘Theatre Screen’. Essentially a 31-inch display that is stored in the roof lining when not in use, it comes equipped with Amazon Fire TV, letting rear passengers enjoy watching their favourite film and shows while on the move, creating a cinema-like experience.
First deliveries of the BMW 7 Series are planned in December 2022, with prices starting from £107,400 for the i7, which arrives first.
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