BMW i7 335kW xDrive50 118kWh 4dr Auto
- Automatic Electric 4 door saloon
Ten Second Review
The BMW i7 demonstrates just how convincing a fully electric luxury saloon can be. Combining the prestige and presence of the 7 Series with cutting-edge electric technology, it offers a compelling alternative to the Mercedes-Benz EQS. With its latest round of updates, BMW has raised the bar even further, delivering impressive range, enhanced performance and an exceptional level of passenger comfort. For those seeking executive-class electric motoring without moving into an SUV, the i7 makes a very strong case.
Background
Luxury electric cars are expected to make a statement, both in terms of technology and design. The BMW i7 certainly delivers on that expectation, particularly following its latest updates.
First introduced in 2022, the i7 is the fully electric version of BMW’s eighth-generation 7 Series. Unlike some manufacturers, BMW has chosen to keep the electric and combustion-engined versions closely aligned in appearance, creating a consistent identity across its flagship saloon range.
The result is an interesting combination of traditional BMW luxury, familiar executive styling and some of the most advanced electric technology the company has developed.
However, competition in this market is particularly strong. The Mercedes-Benz EQS has established itself as one of the leading electric luxury cars, receiving several updates since the i7 first arrived. BMW has therefore responded with a substantial package of improvements, announced in spring 2026, designed to keep its flagship electric saloon competitive.
While Mercedes has concentrated heavily on creating a dramatic, technology-led experience for those sitting up front, BMW has taken a slightly different approach. The i7 places considerable emphasis on rear-seat comfort, entertainment and luxury, making it particularly attractive to chauffeur-driven customers and senior business executives.
Driving Experience
The latest BMW i7 benefits from some of the most significant engineering improvements within the updated 7 Series range.
Central to these changes is a larger 112.5kWh battery, replacing the previous 105.7kWh unit. The new battery uses BMW’s sixth-generation cylindrical cell technology, similar to that introduced in the latest i3. Combined with more efficient electrically excited synchronous motors, this has delivered a substantial improvement in driving range.
The entry-level i7 50 xDrive now produces 455hp through its twin-motor all-wheel-drive system, accelerating from 0-62mph in 5.5 seconds. Its maximum claimed electric range has increased to an impressive 452 miles, compared with 387 miles previously.
For drivers wanting additional performance, the i7 60 xDrive offers 544hp, reaches 62mph in just 4.8 seconds and delivers up to 451 miles of electric range.
At the top of the range sits the performance-focused i7 M70 xDrive. Producing 680hp and an enormous 1,015Nm of torque, this flagship version combines serious performance with a claimed range of up to 426 miles.
Although these figures represent a considerable improvement, the i7 continues to use BMW’s CLAR architecture, originally developed to accommodate combustion-engined vehicles. This means its electric range still faces competition from more purpose-built electric luxury models, including the Mercedes-Benz EQS.
As you would expect from a flagship BMW, the i7 has been engineered primarily for relaxed motorway cruising and comfortable urban driving. However, it remains capable on more demanding roads.
Adaptive self-levelling air suspension comes as standard, automatically adjusting to driving conditions. In Sport mode, the suspension lowers the vehicle by 10mm to improve stability, while at speeds above 75mph it also lowers automatically to enhance efficiency and handling.
When required, the ride height can be increased by 20mm to provide additional clearance over uneven surfaces.
Active rear-wheel steering is also standard, helping improve manoeuvrability at lower speeds while adding stability during faster driving.
BMW has also retained its optional IconicSounds package, developed in collaboration with Hollywood composer Hans Zimmer. Drivers can choose between different sound profiles, including Relax and Expressive, providing either a more calming soundtrack or a distinctive performance-inspired electric driving sound. Both can be switched off if preferred.
Design and Build
BMW has taken a different approach to electric luxury car design compared with Mercedes-Benz. Rather than creating a completely separate appearance for its electric flagship, the i7 retains much of the styling of the conventional 7 Series.
That means the large kidney grille remains one of the most distinctive and controversial elements of the design.
For the latest model, BMW has revised the front end with redesigned horizontal grille detailing, updated air intakes and slimmer headlights. The lighting units incorporate crystal elements that create a distinctive sparkling effect.
At the rear, revised LED lighting takes inspiration from the latest BMW i3, with a design intended to emphasise the width and road presence of the car.
Large 22-inch alloy wheels further reinforce its imposing appearance, while the long-wheelbase body configuration provides the generous proportions expected of a flagship luxury saloon.
Inside, the latest updates are considerably more extensive.
The previous instrument display has been replaced by BMW’s new 43.3-inch Panoramic iDrive system, stretching across the lower section of the windscreen and placing key information directly within the driver’s field of vision.
This is complemented by a redesigned four-spoke steering wheel and a 17.9-inch central infotainment touchscreen. BMW has also introduced a 14.6-inch display for the front passenger, bringing the i7 in line with the latest developments in luxury cabin technology.
However, the real highlight of the i7 remains the experience offered to rear-seat passengers.
BMW describes the rear cabin as a private mobile retreat, and the available equipment certainly supports that ambition.
Optional automatically opening rear doors, inspired by the technology found in Rolls-Royce models, add another layer