BMW 7 Series gets Neue Klasse redesign and 452-mile EV range

Unlike with the i7 EV, energy for the motor comes from the same 18.7kWh 'Gen5' battery as before, offering an unchanged electric-only range of 50 miles.

As standard, all 7 Series models, regardless of powertrain, feature adaptive dampers and active rear steering. 

Changes on the outside are less pronounced, but the 7 Series’ design has been updated to match the new Neue Klasse look introduced by the iX3.

This is most notably at the front, where it gets thinner lights (embedded with crystals “that sparkle”), new air intakes and a new grille design with horizontal slats.

At the rear, the 7 Series looks nearly identical to the i3, with new lights that are designed to emphasise its width. Alloy wheels are 22in as standard.

“We’re merging Neue Klasse with luxury. This car is all about presence,” said Max Missoni, BMW’s lead designer for luxury models. “The grille stands proud and the eyes are focused.”

Inside, the new 7 Series is the first BMW to feature a touchscreen for the front passenger – a feature that has been offered in Audi and Mercedes luxury cars for years. The 14.6in unit is fitted as standard. 

The cabin has also been given a Neue Klasse makeover, receiving the same 17.9in slanted central touchscreen and steering wheel as the iX3.

Gone, too, is the instrument cluster, with BMW's new 43.3in-long ‘Panoramic iDrive’ display being fitted in its place. As in the iX3, this runs across the length of the dashboard just under the driver’s eyeline and displays key details such as vehicle speed and state of charge.

In the rear, the 31.3in 8K cinema screen returns paired with a 35-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system. Alcantara-trimmed and fully reclinable Executive Lounge chairs can be optioned for rear passengers.

Missoni noted that the rear of the 7 Series' cabin has a “cleaner” design than before, adding that “any elements that could be distracting are reduced to a minimum”. 

“This is a car for people who drive the world,” he said. “It is a private mobile retreat that invites you to relax.”

All models get automatically opening doors, similar to those offered by BMW sibling brand Rolls-Royce.

Personalisation options are once again extensive, with more than 700 interior material combinations (including leather, metal and crystal glass) and 500 exterior colour combinations available. And for the first time, the 7 Series can be specced in a two-tone finish.