BMW i7 2023 Electric Car Review - The Pinnacle of the 7-Series Lineup
The automotive world witnessed an exciting online event on April 20, 2022, as BMW unveiled its latest addition to the luxury sedan segment, the all-new electric vehicle known as the i7. This marks the comprehensive debut of BMW's i Series, and it steps into direct competition with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz EQS 2023. As a result, these luxury EVs share the same body dimensions and interior space as the traditional 7-Series. Specifically, the i7 boasts an impressive length of 5,400mm and a wheelbase of 3,200mm.
Similar to the 7-Series 2023, the i7 is equipped with a larger kidney grille, which gives it a bold and imposing front fascia. The dual-layer headlight arrangement is notable, with the daytime running lights positioned above for a stronger daytime visual identity, while the main headlights sit lower within a rectangular housing, flanked by slim blue accents. The rear end features LED taillights and slender reflector strips, along with air outlets at the corners.
Notably distinguishing itself from the new 7-Series, BMW has added distinctive blue accents to the i7, adorning the central air intake and wheel trim, as well as the rear diffuser and exhaust surrounds. Stepping inside the i7's cabin, the driver is greeted by a large curved display panel. This amalgamation of digital instrumentation and touch screen infotainment is housed within a single glass surface, seamlessly integrating modern design with intuitive functionality.
The cabin also features a touch-sensitive element that lights up to indicate which area to tap for adjusting various functions, mirroring the new 7-Series' Interactive Ecosystem. Additionally, the i7 introduces an impressive 31-inch panoramic start screen that can be split into a dual 4K screen at the touch of a button. This lowered rear-seat screen can tilt up to 42.5 degrees, creating a comfortable and immersive entertainment experience.
Moving to the center console, the i7 is equipped with the iDrive controller, a small gear selector, 5G connectivity, and a 5.5-inch touchscreen tablet for rear-seat passengers. The source of power for the i7 varies across its lineup. The i7 sDrive60 2023 will feature dual electric motors generating 255 horsepower at the front and 308 horsepower at the rear, resulting in a combined output of 536 horsepower and 744 Nm of torque.
This setup enables the i7 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 240 km/h. Equipped with a 101.7 kWh battery, this luxury electric sedan can travel up to 483 km on a full charge. Utilizing a 100 kW DC fast charger, the i7 can gain an additional 128 km of range in just 10 minutes. A more powerful variant, the i7 m70s, is also in the works, featuring a total output of 697 horsepower and a staggering 1,000 Nm of torque.
The i7, just like its gasoline-powered counterparts, will be produced in Germany and is expected to hit the market in Q4 2022. The base price for the i7 sDrive60 will start at $119,300, making it the most expensive variant in the 7-Series lineup. With the i7, BMW has ventured further into the realm of electric luxury, offering cutting-edge technology, impressive performance, and a high level of refinement.
In conclusion, the BMW i7 2023 marks a significant step towards a sustainable and electrified future for luxury vehicles. With its bold design, advanced technology, and impressive performance capabilities, the i7 establishes itself as a formidable contender in the luxury EV segment. While the automotive world eagerly awaits its arrival, the i7 stands as a testament to BMW's commitment to innovation and sustainability.
