The next-generation BMW 7 Series sedan is heading down under at the end of 2022, accompanied by an all-new, all-electric i7 variant.

45 years from the debut of the BMW 7 Series, the seventh-generation model takes to the stage as the most advanced and innovative vehicle in the German marque’s luxury passenger car line.

The vehicle wears BMW’s new front fascia design, featuring split crystal headlights and a noticeable pair of ‘kidney’ grilles, illuminated by LED lighting around the perimeter and within the vertical stakes.

A combination of dynamic ability and first-class comfort is delivered through comprehensive chassis upgrades as well as by fitment of two-axle air suspension and adaptive damping as standard across the lineup.

This is aided by the standard offering of a long-wheelbase variant across the model spectrum. The new wheelbase, at 3215mm, is 5mm longer than the sixth generation long-wheelbase model, while overall vehicle length, width and height have increased by 130mm, 48mm and 51mm respectively.

Turning inside, innovative features such as the BMW Theatre Screen, the multi-sensory vehicle experience BMW iDrive with the latest generation of BMW Operating System 8, plus the BMW Curved Display and the Manoeuvre Assistant for automated parking, highlight the progressive character of the luxury vehicle.

A technology toolkit with a new generation of sensors, enhanced software stack and powerful computing platform with clear potential for Level 3 automated driving and parking capability allies with the latest suite of cutting-edge active safety technologies.

In addition to the high tech features, the Executive Lounge option for the rear with optimised reclining seat position and the new BMW merino leather/cashmere wool interior trim makes for an enhanced level of comfort.

Under the bonnet, the BMW 740i is powered by BMW’s renowned three-litre TwinPower Turbo in-line six-cylinder engine, producing 280kW and 540Nm at peak. With these outputs, the car can complete a 0-100km/h sprint in just 5.4 seconds.

The new generation will also include a fully electric variant in its portfolio, the i7, which joins BMW’s growing line-up of zero-emission vehicles. Powered by a 101.7kWh battery, it employs two electric motors, producing 400kW and 745Nm combined. The vehicle can deliver a range of 590-625km as well as complete a 0-100km/hr sprint in just 4.7 seconds.

Plug-in hybrid variants of the new BMW 7 Series are expected to follow in early 2023, including the first BMW M model with a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine and plug-in hybrid drive system.

“The all-new 7 Series encapsulates driving pleasure, unsurpassed long-distance comfort and an outstanding digital experience while showcasing new styling that underlies its commanding position and road presence,” the company writes.

BMW Australia will launch the all-new 7 Series with two models, the 740i and fully electric i7 xDrive60, with customer deliveries expected in Q4. Pricing and specifications will be announced closer to launch.

Source: BMW | All-new BMW 7 Series – including the first-ever fully electric i7 – to arrive in Australia at the end of 2022

22 April 2022