By: Tarek Hawchar
The seventh-generation BMW 7 Series debuted on 20 April 2020, during the nameplate’s 45th anniversary. The 2023 BMW 7 Series has been completely redesigned, offering bolder and more aggressive exterior styling, a more luxurious interior, futuristic onboard technology, and, above all, a new all-electric version known as the BMW i7.
Munich's latest flagship sedan rides on a modified version of the CLAR platform that can adapt to different powertrains—the same platform we saw in the iX midsize SUV and the new electric sedan i4.
We had the chance to climb behind the wheel of this irresistible flagship sedan and discovered what makes the new ‘G70’ generation 7 Series more than just a high-end luxury sedan. It offers an ultimate driving experience that caters to both comfort and athleticism.
Looking instantly recognizable, the 2023 BMW 7 Series gains many of the design traits from its latest high-riding sibling, the 2023 BMW X7
Exterior
Looking instantly recognizable, the 2023 BMW 7 Series gains many of the design traits from its latest high-riding sibling, the 2023 BMW X7. The modern BMW styling language is present, thanks to the new split headlight layout with Crystal running lights on top, and the large front grille with illuminated surrounds to create an aggressive and mean look.
A close look at the side profile of the flagship sedan reveals two creases that run the length of the car, along with the traditional Hofmeister kink, and flush door handles. Depending on the trim level, a choice of 19-inch, 20-inch, or 21-inch aerodynamic alloy wheels is also available.
At the rear, there is a pair of slim L-shaped taillights and two trapezoidal exhaust pipes on gas-powered variants. On the other hand, the BMW i7 doesn’t have any proper pipes, while having blue accents across the bodywork.
Dimensionally speaking, the new BMW 7 Series measures 5390 mm in length, 1950 mm in width, and 1545 mm in height, with a 3215 mm long wheelbase.
The futuristic-looking dashboard is dominated by a pair of screens: a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen
Interior
With the 2023 BMW 7-series, the Munich-based carmaker provides its occupants with a cornucopia of comfort and luxury. While models like the Mercedes-Benz S Class and Audi A8 focus on luxury, the seventh-generation 7 Series cabin is all about cutting-edge technology. The futuristic-looking dashboard is dominated by a pair of screens: a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen—housed together within a single curved floating panel.
There are no visible air vents in this flagship sedan, as they are integrated into the dashboard's Interaction Panel—a new thin strip spanning the width of the dashboard, and housing ambient lighting and other decorative elements.
Depending on the trim level, there is a wide selection of trim options to choose from, including premium leathers, fancy glass, cashmere upholstery, stainless steel accents, and open-pore wood.
The rear section brings another level of luxury, thanks to a Sky lounge panoramic sunroof with LED light threads flooding the interior with ample light, as well as an Executive Lounge package that includes power-adjustable reclining rear seats with massage, adjustable neck cushions on the headrests, and a wireless smartphone charging pad—all of which are available as optional features.
BMW's optional 31.3-inch, 8K "Theatre Screen" that extends down from the roof is the most striking feature in the rear
BMW's optional 31.3-inch, 8K "Theatre Screen" that extends down from the roof is the most striking feature in the rear. It can also be paired to a 36-speaker high-end Bowers and Wilkins audio system with 1965 watts.
On the technology front, the Munich-based automaker has installed an assortment of driver-focused technologies into its new full-size sedan, including Active Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, Rear-view camera, automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control with a semi-autonomous driving mode.
The BMW 740i model is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six petrol engine, delivering a total output of 380 hp and 540 Nm of torque
Engine and Performance
Under the fresh sheet metal, the 2023 BMW 7 Series is available in two different combustion powertrains. The BMW 740i model is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six petrol engine and is assisted by a 48-volt hybrid system, delivering a total output of 380 hp and 540 Nm of torque. The hybrid system adds another 18 hp and 200 Nm of torque and also serves as the starter motor. The six-cylinder mill sends power to the rear wheels via an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, allowing the full-size luxury sedan to go from zero to 100 km/h in an estimated 5.4 seconds, before hitting 250 km/h flat out.
The BMW 760i is equipped with a twin-turbo, 4.4-liter V8 engine, pushing out 544 hp and 750 Nm of torque
This engine drives the luxury car along just nicely, but if you are looking for more power to cover ground more rapidly, the twin-turbo, 4.4-liter V8 engine is definitely the one to go for. The BMW 760i is equipped with the latter V8 engine, pushing out 544 hp and 750 Nm of torque. This engine also uses a 48-volt hybrid system like the six-cylinder mill, adding another 18 hp and 200 Nm of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to an all-wheel-drive system is also available. According to BMW, the eight-cylinder engine will rip to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds.
The first-ever fully-electric BMW i7 xDrive60 also features two electric motors, delivering a total output of 544 hp and 745 Nm of torque
The first-ever fully-electric BMW i7 xDrive60 meanwhile features two electric motors, delivering a total output of 544 hp and 745 Nm of torque, allowing the electric sedan to go from zero to 100 km/h in an estimated 4.7 seconds, while traveling up to 625 km on a single charge.
Like the outgoing model, the seventh-generation 7 Series features a double-wishbone front suspension setup and a multi-link rear. An air suspension comes as standard, and a rear-wheel steering system and adaptive dampers are also available.
Our verdict
Featuring a bolder exterior, futuristic interior, and advanced onboard technology, the 2023 BMW 7 Series is once again one step ahead of the competition. However, since the Munich-based carmaker's future depends on electrification, the BMW i7 further cements the brand's commitment to sustainability while demonstrating its superiority in terms of technology and innovation.