The 2023 7-Series will have a huge 31-inch 8K display for the rear passengers, and a 536-hp all-electric version with a 300-mile range.
BMW has always positioned itself as the brand that offers the ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’ with a touch of luxury. Since the 70s, the 7-Series has been benchmarked as Munchen’s top-tier model, exuding the best of both worlds. In its latest iteration, the 7er receives a fresh face and suite of changes on the inside.
Twin Headlights Done Wrong?
There are no opposites more controversial than BMW and the evolution of its design language in the automotive world. Following the theme, designers have taken things to another extreme on the 2023 7-Series, starting with its front fascia. The twin-kidney grille grew in size, followed by a confusing split-LED headlamp design that truly stands out from the crowd — one of bewilderment!
Meanwhile, BMW sanded down any bumps or creases on the sides and rear-end, giving an illusion of a single monocoque frame with flush handles and almost no panel gaps. However, this approach also minimized the muscular look that the brand’s models were always known for. Look at how much difference the third-gen 7-Series single crease makes! But let’s leave our comments before we see the 2023 7-Series in person, as it might work better.
BMW will offer the limousine in many different finishes, with the darker colors working better with the new design — at least in our opinion. Moreover, 19′ to 22′ rim sizes will be available, but you should really go large to extract the most from the monolithic design.
Inline-6 and V8 Options Keep the ICE Alive
The 2023 7-Series is available with three variants on launch — the 740i, 760i xDrive, and the all-electric i7 xDrive60. The gas-powered versions have updated powertrains and 48V mild hybrid systems to improve performance and efficiency.
The base 740i comes with a revised 3.0-liter twin-turbo i6 (B58TU2), featuring redesigned intake ports and combustion chambers and electronically controlled VANOS timing. As a result, it produces 373 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque.
The story is similar on the 760i xDrive, too, with the characterful 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 using an improved exhaust manifold, external engine oil cooling, reinforced crankshaft, and better turbocharging, churning out an impressive 536 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque.
Both gas engines utilize an 8-speed Steptronic transmission and the mild-hybrid system to boost the output by 12 hp at the wheels when needed.
An All-Electric Powertrain for the First Time in a 7-Series
But the real star of the show is the all-electric i7 xDrive60, joining the i4 and iX. It looks largely similar to its ICE-powered siblings, albeit with minor touches like the blue plaque on the side skirts. Suggested by its name, the electric 7er comes standard with the xDrive 4WD system that features intelligent torque vectoring and advanced recovery, managing the electric power effectively.
The automaker also took a bold step forward with the electric motors, ditching the permanent magnets in place of a controlled electrical feed that transmits the motion. Overall, the combined output of two electric motors amounts to 536 hp and 549 lb-ft of torque, enough to propel the i7 from 0-60 mph in 4.5 secs. Furthermore, according to EPA’s testing procedures, the i7’s fairly large 101.7 kWh battery pack gives an estimated range of 300 miles.
Huge Uptake in Luxury and Technology Inside
However, the biggest leap in the 2023 7-Series is the interior quality. The seats, door trims, and the dashboard are upholstered with a lush combination of Merino leather and cashmere wool with a smoky white/light grey color combination. Moreover, BMW has utilized exotic materials like oak wood and Swarovski crystals in specific areas for added luxury.
There’s no shortage of tech on board as well, with BMW’s curved display housing both the driver’s display and infotainment with in-house BMW connect services. However, the real party piece of the 2023 7-Series is the 31-inch 8K cinematic display with 5G and Amazon Fire TV built-in for streaming media content. Customers can also opt for a 2,000W 4D Bowers and Wilkins 36-speaker sound system for a complete audiophile experience.
The 2023 7-series starts at $94,295 for the 740i, including destination, whereas the 760i xDrive and i7 xDrive cost $114,595 and $120,295, respectively, making them the most expensive BMWs on sale.
Gallery: 2023 BMW 7-Series
