Introduction
The BMW i7 is BMW’s flagship electric sedan, positioned within the luxury EV market to compete with segment leaders like the Mercedes-Benz EQS and Tesla Model S. Launched officially in April 2022 and delivered to customers starting November 2022, the i7 is part of BMW’s renowned 7 Series. It is designed to appeal primarily to affluent buyers seeking a blend of advanced technology, luxury, and sustainability in a full-size executive sedan.
Features
- Electric Drivetrain: Dual-motor all-wheel drive with up to 536hp (i7 xDrive60).
- Range: EPA-estimated range of up to 318 miles per charge (for the i7 xDrive60 variant).
- Charging: DC fast charging supports up to 195kW, allowing up to 80 miles of range in about 10 minutes.
- Advanced Tech:
- 31-inch 8K BMW Theatre Screen for rear passengers.
- Remote parking, automatic doors, and BMW’s iDrive 8 infotainment system with curved digital display.
- 5G connectivity, over-the-air updates, and phone-as-key functionality.
- Driver Assistance: Level 2 hands-free driving features, adaptive cruise control, and comprehensive driving aids.
Design
- Exterior: Large kidney grille with illuminated trim, sleek LED headlights (optional Swarovski crystals), and aerodynamic silhouette.
- Interior:
- Crafted from high-quality materials: Merino leather, glass controls, and extensive ambient lighting.
- Executive lounge rear seating with enhanced recline and leg rests.
- Panoramic sunroof, customizable mood lighting, and multiple interior color themes.
- Color Options: Includes classic black, blue, white, and specialty metallic finishes.
- User Interface & Ergonomics:
- Curved digital driver display blends seamlessly with center touchscreen.
- Gesture and voice controls for various functions.
- Award-winning for in-cabin tech and craftsmanship in several international contests.
Safety
- Safety Systems:
- Multiple airbags, anti-collision systems, lane-keeping aid, blind-spot detection, and 360-degree cameras.
- Advanced sensor suite enables semi-autonomous features.
- Crash-Test Ratings: As of early 2024, i7 is pending full U.S. NHTSA and IIHS crash ratings but shares platform with the 7 Series, which has top safety scores in Europe.
- Certifications: Meets or exceeds all key U.S., European, and Chinese safety regulations for electric vehicles.
Price and Range
| Variant | Price (USD, 2024) | EPA Est. Range |
|---|---|---|
| i7 xDrive60 | $124,200+ | 318 miles |
| i7 M70 xDrive | $169,495+ | 295 miles |
| i7 eDrive50 (Europe) | €114,000+ | 376 miles (WLTP) |
- Availability: The i7 is available in North America, Europe, China, and select Asian markets.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Luxury and Comfort: Segment-leading rear seat entertainment and interior quality.
- Performance: Smooth, near-silent acceleration and strong highway composure.
- Technology: Advanced infotainment, driver-assistance, and connectivity features.
- Range & Charging Speeds: Competitive real-world range and rapid DC fast-charging.
Cons
- Price: Significantly higher than some competitors, especially with options.
- Weight: Heavier than most rivals, affecting some driving dynamics.
- Complex Technology: Some users may find the tech overwhelming or redundant.
- Limited Trunk Space: Compared to some rivals, cargo capacity is lower due to battery placement.
Competitor Comparison
| Feature | BMW i7 | Mercedes-Benz EQS | Tesla Model S Plaid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $124,200+ | $104,400+ | $89,990+ |
| Max Power | 536hp (xDrive60) | 516hp (EQS 580 4MATIC) | 1,020hp |
| EPA Range (mi) | 318 | 340 | 348 |
| Tech Highlights | Theatre Screen, iDrive 8 | MBUX Hyperscreen | Autopilot, yoke steering |
| Rear Comfort | Executive seating | Spacious, less customizable | Minimalist, basic |
| Charging Speed | 195kW | 200kW | 250kW |
| Brand Prestige | BMW | Mercedes-Benz | Tesla |
The i7 offers more interior luxury and cutting-edge entertainment tech than the Tesla Model S and rivals the comfort and refinement of the Mercedes-Benz EQS. Tesla still leads in acceleration and charging speed, while Mercedes offers a slightly greater range and their MBUX Hyperscreen. The i7 stands out for those prioritizing a high-end in-cabin experience, BMW craftsmanship, and innovative rear passenger tech.
Real-World Experience & Living With the BMW i7
Owners and reviewers note that the BMW i7 quickly becomes more than a car—it feels like a moving luxury suite. The ability to glide along in near-silence thanks to world-class insulation creates an atmosphere of calm that sets it apart from typical electric vehicles. Even on congested city streets, the i7 commands presence and helps drivers feel special, whether they’re commuting or chauffeuring guests.
Cabin Innovations Beyond Luxury
The i7’s 31-inch theatre screen and the Executive Lounge rear seat give the impression of a private cinema with business-class comfort, letting rear passengers indulge in streaming on the go. Combine that with features like power blinds, drop-down footrests, and massage seats in both the front and back, and it’s not just about being driven—it’s about truly unwinding on every journey.
A standout: BMW’s ‘Art Mode’ bathes the cabin in customizable visuals and light patterns, and even changes scents for an immersive mood transformation—something almost no rival can match. The interaction bar housing the controls is set within a glass panel across the dashboard, giving access to core functions with just a tap.
Driving Personality: Multiple Characters in One Car
Switching between drive modes transforms the i7’s personality—from serene and ultra-soft with light steering for passengers who want the chauffeur-driven experience, to a responsive, dynamic ride in Sport Mode, which delivers brisk acceleration and heightened feedback. BMW collaborated with composer Hans Zimmer for unique acceleration sounds, making driving the i7 aurally engaging and futuristic.
With BMW’s advanced air suspension, the i7 “floats” over bumps and rough roads, but optional active anti-roll systems keep it impressively flat through corners—a delicate balance between ride comfort and agility. The all-wheel steering enhances low-speed maneuverability, particularly useful for navigating tight city spaces.
Tech Innovations
BMW is actively testing solid-state battery technology in the i7, promising higher energy density,, safer operation, and longer lifespan than conventional lithium-ion batteries. Although not yet standard, these advancements hint at an even brighter future for BMW’s electric range.
The i7’s infotainment and user interface are practical as well as luxurious. For example, the glovebox opens at a touch, and seat adjustments are comfortably located high on the door panels, making them more accessible. Many controls are voice-activated or gesture-based, reducing button clutter and enhancing usability.
Customization & Personalization
The BMW Individual program offers nearly 150 paint colors, including exclusive two-tone finishes and hand-detailed elements. Interiors can be tailored extensively, with options for wool and cashmere seats, unique trim, and virtually any specification a buyer may dream up. The configurator lets prospective owners preview and fine-tune every detail online before ordering.
Standout Ownership Aspects
- Cabin Tranquility: The cabin is so quiet (recorded at just 50dB at 37mph) that even some measuring devices lose satellite connection inside.
- Automatic Doors: Self-closing doors aren’t just a gimmick; they make entry and exit truly effortless for all passengers, particularly those needing extra assistance.
- Rear-Seat Focus: Many owners claim they prefer to be chauffeured, as the rear seat experience is that good—nearing Rolls-Royce levels of pampering.
User Impressions
Actual user reviews consistently praise the rapid acceleration and smooth power delivery of the dual-motor setup, as well as the faultless ride quality over long distances. Family members and even EV skeptics have been converted based on first impressions of the comfort and tech.
In essence: The BMW i7 isn’t just a luxury EV sedan—it’s a statement in comfort, tranquility, and cutting-edge customization. Its combination of immersive rear-seat luxury, innovative cabin atmosphere controls, and anticipation for future battery tech solidify its position as a frontrunner not only in the electric luxury sedan segment, but in the automotive world as a whole.
In summary:
The BMW i7 is a top-tier electric luxury sedan that excels in comfort, innovation, and advanced features. While it carries a premium price, it offers an unmatched blend of traditional luxury and future-forward technology for buyers seeking a uniquely opulent EV experience.
Here’s a deeper look into the BMW i7, focusing on the things that make it truly unique and providing insights you won’t find in a standard overview:
