Review

Where Mercedes-Benz goes, the eternal rival BMW goes, and vice versa. Now that Mercedes has unveiled its electric S-Class, EQS, it is not surprising that BMW the launch of an all-electric flagship luxury sedan called the i7. The electric Bimmer was developed in conjunction with the next-generation 7 Series and offers the same level of luxury as this petrol model. The i7 is powered by two electric motors and has a battery large enough to compete with the EQS and other high-end electric sedans like the Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan. The style is more restrained than recently debuted the XM SUV concept but the 2023 BMW i7 still takes risks, especially with its front-end design that includes unusually large grilles and split-element headlights. A host of technological features are combined with luxurious materials inside, making the i7 tailor-made for buyers who want quiet luxury transportation, as well as those who intend to relax in the back while their driver.

What’s new in 2023?

The 2023 i7 is a new nameplate and is the flagship of BMW’s expanded ‘i’ sub-brand of electric vehicles.

Pricing and which one to buy

At the moment, the only version of the i7 offered by BMW is the all-wheel drive xDrive60, but eventually we expect a sportier M-sport model. Like the gasoline-powered 7 Series, the i7 is a limousine-like luxury sedan that can be configured to pamper rear-seat passengers with the optional Executive Lounge package. We recommend this package as it adds plenty of features that justify the price, including plush rear seats with power recline and massage.

Electric motor, power and performance

The i7 uses a similar electric powertrain setup to the brand’s new EV SUV iX, with two electric motors — one driving each axle — and a total output of 536 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard and acceleration is quick for such a large car. We estimate the i7 xDrive60 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. Handling is surprisingly nimble for a large sedan, but even so, the i7 won’t appeal to buyers looking for the handling of a sports sedan. Those looking for a comfortable and luxurious vacation will find something interesting for themselves our first test drive, we noted its particularly smooth ride and quiet cabin. If you prefer a gasoline 7th series, one is still available; we consider this model separately.

Range, charging and battery life

BMW says the i7 should deliver about 300 miles of range on a single charge, but the EPA has yet to release an official estimate. The car’s large 101.7kWh battery pack can be connected to DC fast charging stations and is said to be capable of adding 80 miles of range in just 10 minutes while connected. Speaking of charging, BMW includes three years of free 30-minute charging sessions at Electrify America charging stations with every new i7.

Fuel economy and actual MPGe

Official fuel economy figures haven’t been released, and we haven’t had a chance to test the i7 on our 75 mph highway fuel economy test route. Once we do, we’ll update this story with the test results. For more information on the i7’s fuel economy, visit EPA website.

Interior, comfort and cargo

Because they were developed together, the i7 enjoys the same spacious, luxurious and upscale cabin feel as the petrol 7 Series. In addition to the luxury items, the i7 offers an array of high-tech features that give it a solid footing compared to rivals such as Mercedes-Benz EQS and Tesla Model S. There’s plenty of room in both the front and back seats, and every square inch of the cabin is clad in fine materials. Opt for the Executive Lounge package and your backseat passengers get power seats, wireless smartphone charging and extra plush headrests. There’s plenty of boot space, but if you’re carrying longer items, you’ll find the rear seat pass-through feature handy.

Infotainment system and communication

The i7 borrows its digital dashboard from the iX SUV, which consists of large floating digital displays and an infotainment system. Two displays placed together under one glass allow you to clearly see driving data and entertainment functions. Also available is a rear seat entertainment system with a large 31.3-inch screen that drops from the ceiling and can access streaming services like Netflix, Hulu and YouTube via the car’s 5G mobile connection.

Safety features and driver assistance

A host of driver assistance features are standard, with more advanced technology available as an option. Available features include a hands-free driving mode for highway use and a parking assistant system that allows the driver to exit the vehicle and park the vehicle via a smartphone app. For more information on the i7’s crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute of Road Safety (IIHS) websites. Key security features are expected to include:

  • Standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
  • Standard lane departure warning with assistance system
  • Adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode is available

Warranty and maintenance

The i7 comes standard with the same warranty coverage as BMW’s other electrified models, the iX SUV and i4 sedan, which means basic coverage for four years or 50,000 miles and more generous protection for electric vehicle components. All new BMWs also come with a three-year free maintenance plan.

  • The limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
  • The transmission is covered by a four-year or 50,000-mile warranty
  • EV components are warranted for eight years or 100,000 miles
  • Free maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles

Technical characteristics

Technical characteristics

2023 BMW i7 xDrive60
Vehicle type: front and rear engine, four-wheel drive, 5-seater, 4-door sedan

PRICE
Base: $120,295

POWER TRANSMISSION
Front motor: synchronous AC excited current, 255 hp, 269 lb-ft
Rear Motor: Synchronous AC with excited current, 308 hp, 280 lb-ft
Combined power: 536 hp
Combined torque: 549 lb-ft
Battery: Li-ion with liquid cooling, 101.7 kWh
On-board charger: 11.0 kW
Peak DC fast charging speed: 195 kW
Transmissions, F/R: Direct Drive

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 126.6 inches
Length: 212.2 inches
Width: 76.8 inches
Height: 60.8 inches
Passenger volume: 112 feet3
Trunk capacity: 11 feet3
Curb weight (C/D estimate): 5,950 lbs

EFFICIENCY (C/D EST)
60 mph: 4.1 sec
100 mph: 9.0 sec
1/4 mile: 12.5 sec
Top speed: 130–149 mph

EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/City/Highway: 83–89/81–87/85–92 MPGe
Range: 296–318 miles

More features and specifications

https://www.caranddriver.com/bmw/a38404435/i7/

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