BMW i7 2023 Overview

Where Mercedes-Benz goes, archrival BMW goes—and vice versa. Now
that Mercedes has unveiled its electric S-Class, the EQS, it’s no surprise that
BMW is launching an all-electric flagship luxury sedan called the i7. The
electric Bimmer has been co-developed with the next-generation 7 Series and
offers the same luxury as the petrol-powered model. The i7 is powered by two
electric motors and sports a big enough battery pack to rival the EQS and other
high-end electric sedans like the Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan.

 The styling
is more subdued than the recently debuted XM SUV concept, but the 2023 BMW i7
still takes some risks, especially with its front-end design, which features an
unusually large grille intake and split element. Headlamps are included. A host
of technology features are combined with luxury materials to offer the i7
tailormade for buyers who want whisper-quiet luxury transportation—and those
who plan to rest their backs while riding.

What’s New for 2023?

The
2023 i7 is a new nameplate and serves as the flagship of BMW’s expanding “i”
sub-brand of electric vehicles.

Pricing and Which One to
Buy

For now,
the only version of the i7 BMW offers is the all-wheel-drive xDrive60, but we
expect a more sporty M-sport model eventually. Like the gasoline-powered 7
Series, the i7 is a limo-like luxury sedan that can be configured to pamper
rear-seat occupants with an optional Executive Lounge package. We’d recommend
this package, as it adds plenty of features to justify its price tag, including
plush, electrically adjustable rear seats with massage.

Range, charging, and battery life

With its
standard 19-inch wheels, the i7 delivers an estimated driving range of 318
miles per charge. However, opting for the larger and more visually appealing
20- and 21-inch wheels results in a reduction in the sedan’s driving range.
During our highway fuel-economy test route, the xDrive60 test vehicle equipped
with 21-inch wheels covered 260 miles. The car has a substantial 101.7-kWh
battery pack that can be connected to DC fast charging stations. Such a
connection is claimed to add 80 miles of driving range in just 10 minutes. As
for charging perks, BMW is offering three years of free 30-minute charging
sessions at Electrify America charging stations with every new i7.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance

The i7
adopts the same electric powertrain configuration as the brand’s recently
introduced EV SUV, the iX. It has two electric motors — one for each axle —
resulting in a combined output of 536 horsepower. Standard all-wheel drive
ensures quick acceleration for a vehicle of its size, with the i7 xDrive60
hitting 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds during our testing. Despite its considerable
size, the i7’s handling is surprisingly nimble, though it may not satisfy those
seeking a sports sedan experience. The i7, instead, caters to buyers looking
for a comfortable and luxurious ride. During our initial test drive, we
observed its impressively smooth ride and quiet cabin ambiance. For those who
still prefer the petrol-powered 7 Series, that option remains available and is
reviewed separately.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe

The EPA
estimates that the i7 should deliver 87 MPGe city and 92 MPGe highway. We
didn’t get a chance to put the i7 to the test on our 75 mph highway fuel
economy test route, but once we do, we’ll update this story with the test
results.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Because
they were co-developed, the i7s benefit from the same spacious, luxurious, and
upscale cabin atmosphere as the gasoline-powered 7 Series. In addition to luxury,
the i7 offers high-tech convenience features that put it on solid footing
against rivals like the Mercedes-Benz EQS and Tesla Model S. Both front and
back seats have generous room and space.

 lining material on every square inch
of the interior. Opt for the Executive Lounge package and your backseat
passengers will be treated to power-adjustable reclining seats, a wireless
smartphone charging pad, and extra plush headrests. Trunk space is plentiful but
if you’re carrying long items, you’ll get a pass-through feature near the back
seats.