BMW has taken the wraps off its new 7 Series and i7 electric counterpart, showcasing a bolder design direction over its predecessor. See details below!

The new BMW 7 Series has arrived boasting styling that takes it smack-bam into the electric age. Yes, that’s right, BMW has unveiled both the combustion-engined 7 Series and the all-electric i7, with both showcasing some of the latest technology to come from the Munich-based firm.

The design of the new 7 Series is erm…polarising, and based on comments we have seen on social media, public perception is not particularly positive. Nonetheless, the 7 Series adopts BMW’s large illuminated kidney grille which is flanked by thin, slit-like Crystal headlights Iconic Glow while the bonnet adopts what BMW calls a monolithic surface design.

Engines on offer include a revised 3.0-litre in-line 6-cylinder turbopetrol engine in the 740i that develops 280 kW and 519 Nm with 48-volt mild-hybrid assist which adds boost for short periods and helps the 740i run from zero to 100 kph in 5 seconds.

There’s also a range-topping 760i xDrive model with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 (also with mild-hybrid assist) that develops a gnarly 400 kW and 750 Nm of torque. The 760i xDrive is claimed to bolt to 100 kph in 4.2 seconds. Both the 740i and 760i xDrive use a 8-speed automatic transmission.

The all-electric i7 xDrive60 on the other hand, uses 2 electric motors for propulsion using a 101.7 kWh battery. Total outputs are pegged at 400 kW and 744 Nm. Electric range is pegged at approximately 625 km (WLTP). Zero to 100 kph is claimed at 4.5 seconds with a top speed of 240 kph. Using a fast DC charger (up to 195 kW), the i7 will recharge almost 170 km in 10 minutes.

The BMW 7 Series is fitted with 2-axle air suspension and adaptive suspension as standard as well Integral Active Steering and active roll stabilisation.

The new BMW 7 Series showcases the very best technology in BMW’s arsenal.

As is expected, the interior of the new 7 Series is lavishly equipped with technology. Rear passengers are treated to a BMW Theatre Screen measuring 31.3 inches and extends down from the headliner. The rear armrests are also fitted with 5.5-inch touch-operated screens.

The driver is treated to a curved display mounted on the dashboard comprising a 12.3-inch infotainment system with 5G connectivity as well as a configurable 14.9-inch digital instrument cluster. The dashboard also features a BMW Interaction Bar that includes functions such as ambient lighting and air vents, stretching the width of the cabin. The interior ambience is further enhanced with a Sky Lounge panoramic glass sunroof with LED light threads.

BMW South Africa has confirmed that the 740i and all-electric i7 xDrive60 will be offered in South Africa from launch, expected in November 2022.

Buy a BMW 7-Series on Cars.co.za

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