Exterior

With its chiseled profile, large kidney grilles and horizontally-split headlights, the seventh-generation of Seven-Series has to be the most divisive ‘7’ since the Chris Bangle styled fourth-generation, which ran from 2001 to 2008.

The basic design remains unchanged with the facelifted ‘7,’ but this BMW gets a new face with a reprofiled kidney grille, and new vertically stacked headlight units, although the slim daytime driving running lights look unchanged. Other changes, include a more ‘Neuer Klasse-style set of rear lights that span the entire width of the car.

Most distinctive are the M Performance models, which feature an exclusive grille graphic with the BMW M logo highlighted by the Iconic Glow. Additional M badges appear on the Hofmeister kink and on the outer edges of the rear lights. The Iconic Glow illumination darkened for a sportier appearance, with the BMW Individual crystal headlights incorporating smoke-black crystals.

For this 7 Series, BMW has expanded its BMW Individual paint programme, with more than 500 colour combinations available. Highlights include the two-tone finishes offered with a mixture of matt and gloss paintwork. However, a BMW spokesperson admitted that they expect single-colour finishes to remain the most popular choice among UK buyers. Elsewhere, there is a variety of alloy wheel options, with sizes of up to 22 inches.

Overall, the 7 Series' styling is no more attractive than before, but thanks to its improved detailing it is even more distinctive, while offering customers greater scope for personalisation.

Interior

The interior is where BMW's claim of this being its most extensive update yet really starts to make sense. Like the iX3, the new 7 Series receives an all-new dashboard, which is slim and horizontal in design, dominated by an 18-inch trapezoidal central display and the full-width Panoramic Vision display running across the base of the windscreen. BMW is also debuting its first-ever passenger display.

Aside from the displays, drivers will immediately notice the unusual steering wheel design that debuted on the iX3 and will also feature on forthcoming i3 models. Elsewhere, luxury materials such as leather, metal and crystal glass dominate the 7 Series' high-tech cabin.

Then there is the frankly incredible BMW Theatre Screen, available as part of the optional Executive Lounge Pack. Folding down between the front and rear seats, it now features Dolby Atmos and integrated video conferencing capabilities.

Powertrains

From launch, the new BMW 7 Series will be offered in three all-electric versions: the BMW i7 50 xDrive, BMW i7 60 xDrive and BMW i7 M70 xDrive. All models utilise two sound-insulated electric motors for instant, near-silent power delivery, along with standard all-wheel drive for outstanding traction and stability. BMW HypersonX driving sounds, sound effects and acoustic signals enhance the experience in the BMW i7 50 xDrive and BMW i7 60 xDrive, while the BMW i7 M70 xDrive features an M-specific sound design.

The entry-level BMW i7 50 xDrive produces 455hp and 660Nm of torque, resulting in a 0-62mph time of 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 130mph. Yet it still offers a range of up to 452 miles on the WLTP test cycle. This represents an increase of 73 miles over its predecessor, thanks to the battery's higher energy content and energy density, delivered by BMW's new Gen6 cylindrical cells, as well as efficiency gains in the drive system.

Move up to the BMW i7 60 xDrive and power rises to 544hp, while maximum system torque increases to 745Nm. It can accelerate from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds before reaching an electronically limited 149mph. Yet maximum range still stands at up to 451 miles (WLTP).

Topping the 7 Series line-up is the BMW i7 M70 xDrive. This BMW M Performance model features two electric motors delivering up to 680hp and a frankly unbelievable 1,015Nm of torque in Sport mode, rising to 1,100Nm when Launch Control or Sport Boost is activated. As a result, this range-topper can sprint from 0-62mph in just 3.8 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155mph. Despite all of this performance, the M70 xDrive still offers a maximum WLTP range of up to 426 miles.

In addition to the i7 models, two plug-in hybrid variants will be introduced in November 2026: the BMW 750e xDrive and BMW M760e xDrive. Both feature an updated straight-six petrol engine equipped with a new turbocharger. Electric assistance comes from a permanently excited synchronous motor producing 197hp. It is packaged within the eight-speed Steptronic transmission housing, together with the power electronics, without taking up additional space.

Energy is supplied by a fifth-generation high-voltage lithium-ion battery integrated into the underbody, providing 18.7kWh of usable capacity and an electric range of up to 50 miles (WLTP). AC charging capacity rises to 11kW, allowing a full charge from empty in 2 hours and 15 minutes. Using a conventional domestic socket, a full charge takes around 10 hours and 45 minutes.

Equipment

As befits a range-topper, standard i7 and 7 Series specifications are generous, including metallic paint, 20-inch alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, Comfort Access, multifunction seats and a Bowers & Wilkins surround-sound system. M Sport trim – a previous fleet favourite – is again expected to be the best-selling specification.

Safety

BMW Symbiotic Drive driver-assistance technology means active safety systems intervene only when danger is detected. Standard features include Lane Keeping Assistant, Side Collision Warning with steering intervention when there is a risk of lateral impact, Crossing Traffic Warning and automatic braking support when turning into a road or leaving a parking space.

Cost

Prices start at £104,230,  and rise to £187,420 when I the revised ‘7’ is launched this autumn.