If you like your saloon (sedan) cars chunky and purposeful-looking then you have come to the right place. The new Flagship BMW, the 7 Series, represents a significant step up from its renowned predecessor, with a bang-up-to-date, technology-rich and innovative specification designed to deliver incredible driving pleasure, superb long-distance comfort and a cutting-edge digital experience. Adding in new levels of electrification and sustainability while retaining that unique BMW drive means that this car is the best BMW yet, with a wide catalogue of options.
Available exclusively, we learn, in long-wheelbase form, the 7 Series is available in either M Sport or Excellence specification and the range comprises models from both the BMW i and BMW M sub-brands. A wide range of model variants include the pure electric i7 xDrive60 and the plug-in hybrid 750e xDrive and M760e xDrive which are set to follow imminently. The dedicated M Performance model will deliver a robust 571bhp, combining the searing performance characteristics of a BMW M model with efficiency-enhancing plug-in hybrid technology. BMW i7 M70 xDrive, the future flagship model, will follow later in 2023.
On The Outside
Overall, this car is bigger than previously, although not by much, but it does offer a bit more head and leg room. The front of the new BMW 7 Series, with the combination of the illuminated and still traditional BMW kidney grille, has two-piece split headlight units in a new interpretation of the BMW front end, which gives the brand’s flagship model a highly distinctive look. The front-end design, developed specifically for BMW’s luxury models, enables clear differentiation from the brand’s other models.
Offered as standard are adaptive LED Headlights including a cornering light, matrix high beam and the BMW Selective Beam non-dazzling high beam ‘assistant’. 7 Series models in Excellence trim are fitted as standard with 19 inch light-alloy wheels, while M Sport models feature 20 inch light-alloy wheels as standard. A range of alternative design 19 – 21 inch light-alloys are available in the options list. The BMW M760e xDrive will feature 21-inch M light-alloy wheels as standard. Further, original BMW M Performance Accessories range also contains 22-inch M light-alloy wheels. On all variants except the M760e xDrive, the exhaust tailpipes are integrated out of sight into the rear apron, a small but interesting design development.
On The Inside
With the BMW Curved Display fully digital screen grouping plus additional ‘My Modes’, the BMW Interaction Bar and the newly designed gear selector, the cockpit represents an invitation to enjoy concentrated tech-laden driving pleasure. The lounge-like atmosphere in the second row of seats is elevated to extraordinary heights both by the extra spaciousness on offer and, most prominently, by innovations like the BMW Theatre Screen and upgraded comfort seats with optional reclining function.
There’s a treat for television addicts too as passengers can while away those long-distance hours with one of the main highlights of the equipment options available for this car: The BMW Theatre Screen with Amazon Fire TV built-in. This includes an 8K touchscreen display with Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system with optional in-seat ‘exciters’ (it is not made clear what these are), built-in touch screen remotes in the door panels (BMW Touch Command), and an automated rear shade system that closes when the BMW Theatre Screen is turned on.
Viewers whose eyes don’t need to be on the road can enjoy content of up to 4K/UHD from popular apps (subscriptions may be required and regions may vary), stream videos, play games, listen to music, get information, and watch downloaded programmes – all while on the move.
Meanwhile, the driver can enjoy the BMW Curved Display. This fully digital screen grouping consists of a 12.3 inch information display behind the steering wheel and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches. Arranged beneath a shared glass surface, the displays are directed ergonomically towards the driver, making the already intuitive touch control even more straightforward.
Newly developed comfort seats (with leather or artificial material) are standard in the new BMW 7 Series and offer wider seat surfaces than the outgoing model, as well as extensive electric adjustment, seat heating and lumbar support for the driver and front passenger. These are adjustable via the door-mounted controls or the relevant menu in the iDrive control/operation system. The optional Front Comfort Pack further enhances the luxurious experience for front seat occupants, integrating active seat ventilation with optimised cooling and a massage function with nine programmes which provides for a noticeably increased vitalising and relaxation effect. Other options include a Travel & Comfort System which features a mount for attaching tablets. Multifunction seats, active seat ventilation and a massage function are also available for the rear compartment.
Another nice touch is the automatic door mechanism available as an option. To open or close the front and rear doors, all those on board need to do is touch the handles set flush into the body or the buttons in the BMW Interaction Bar at the front of the cabin or the rear door trim. As ever, there’s a panoramic glass roof for pleasant ambient light.
On The Road
Aside from the fully electric variant, two new plug-in hybrid models utilise an eight-speed Steptronic transmission that is making its global debut and is unique in this segment. The new electric drive unit teams up with a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive in both models.
Power steering and adjustable air suspension make the ride magic carpet smooth and the Executive Drive Pro option, which comprises an active roll-stabilisation feature employing electric swivel motors, will smooth out the lateral forces that induce body roll through dynamically taken corners.
State of the art braking systems and an array of the very latest in vehicle safety complete the package. There really is so much to this new, prestige 7 Series. Get in touch with us here at MHH International to find out how to import this car from the UK to New Zealand, Kenya and other global destinations.
