BMW has launched its new 7 Series range in India, offering both petrol and all-electric options in its flagship sedan lineup. The range includes the BMW i7 M70 xDrive, which the company claims is the most powerful 7 Series ever. This new model showcases BMW’s commitment to blending performance with luxury, introducing advanced features and design elements inspired by the upcoming Neue Klasse generation.
A significant development for the Indian market is the local production of the BMW i7 at the BMW Group Plant Chennai. India is now the second country after Germany to manufacture this model, marking a strategic move to cater to the growing demand for luxury electric vehicles in the region.
Design Updates
The new 7 Series features BMW’s latest luxury design language, characterized by an upright front end and a monolithic appearance. It incorporates the Iconic Glow Kidney Grille and BMW Individual Crystal Headlights adorned with Swarovski crystal elements. The redesigned BMW logo is positioned at the center of the bonnet and grille, emphasizing the brand’s heritage and modernity. Additionally, the sedan features flush door handles, redesigned rear lights, and a revised rear-end treatment, enhancing its sleek and contemporary look.
The sedan is equipped with adaptive LED headlights featuring cornering light and matrix high-beam functionality. The BMW Selective Beam technology ensures non-dazzling high-beam operation with a claimed range of up to 600 metres. The M Sport package enhances its sporty aesthetic with sportier bumpers, larger air intakes, M-specific side skirts, a rear diffuser, and 20-inch alloy wheels. The i7 M70 xDrive stands out with an even more dynamic design, including larger air curtains, a central air intake, an M-specific graphic around the illuminated grille, black exterior elements, 21-inch M aerodynamic wheels, and an M rear spoiler.
Technology and Interior Features
Inside, the 7 Series introduces the BMW Panoramic iDrive and Operating System X. This system features a 17.9-inch central display and a BMW Panoramic Vision projection that extends across the lower windscreen, from A-pillar to A-pillar. It also includes a 3D Head-Up Display and, for the first time in a BMW, a dedicated 14.6-inch Passenger Screen for the front passenger, allowing access to entertainment without a separate BMW ID or profile.
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Rear-seat comfort is raised with Executive Lounge seating, offering a reclining function of up to 43 degrees. The sedan also boasts a 31.3-inch 8K BMW Theatre Screen and a Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System with Dolby Atmos for an immersive entertainment experience. Additional features include automatic doors with radar-based technology, a panoramic glass sunroof, and illuminated interior elements, further enhancing the luxury experience.
Performance and Powertrains
The BMW 740 is powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine, delivering 405 PS and 540 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and achieves a top speed of 250 km/h.
The BMW i7 eDrive50 utilizes BMW’s latest eDrive technology, generating 461 PS and 660 Nm. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds and offers a WLTP range of up to 728 km, an improvement of 125 km over the outgoing model. The i7 M70 xDrive delivers 680 hp and 1,015 Nm of torque in Sport mode, rising to 1,100 Nm with Launch Control or Sport Boost. It sprints from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds with a range of 686 km.
Charging and Safety
The i7 models support 250kW DC charging, enabling the battery to charge from 10-80 percent in 28 minutes. BMW says 235 km of range can be added in 10 minutes under suitable conditions. A 22kW AC charger can fully charge the battery in approximately six hours. Safety features include Cruise Control, Attentiveness Assistant, and Parking Assistant Professional with remote parking and Reversing Assistant Professional.
The Driving Assistant Plus package adds active cruise control with Stop&Go, Steering and Lane Control Assistant, and blind-spot monitoring. With the new range, BMW is positioning the 7 Series as a flagship that combines conventional combustion power with long-range electric mobility, bringing cutting-edge technologies from the Neue Klasse generation into its luxury sedan lineup.
