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Magnificent Seven – The new BMW 7 Series and BMW i7

(Updated on 4 April 2023 to reflect new pricing)

When describing the legacy of the BMW 7 Series, car experts regularly use the words “luxury” and “sophisticated”. With new petrol and all-electric models launched in Singapore, we explore their designs and what they have to offer.

Now in its seventh generation, the BMW 7 series is the ultimate drive for Singapore’s well-heeled and affluent. A lot of privileges also come with owning a BMW 7 series, including automatic membership in the BMW Excellence Club.  Besides invitations to driving, gastronomical, and cultural events internationally, club members are given free airport transfers and care packages with their BMW vehicles for the first three years.

BMW 735i

The new BMW 7 Series

Sustainability is the focus of the latest BMW 7 series, with secondary sustainable materials used for its interior and an eco-friendlier production process.

In Singapore, the BMW 735i model comes with an inline 6-cylinder powertrain that boasts 286 horsepower and 400Nm of torque. It can achieve a 0-100km/h time of just 6.7 seconds. Ideal for those who prefer longer journeys and the driving feel that petrol engines deliver.

>>DOWNLOAD: BMW 735i specifications card

BMW 735i

Distinctive exterior

The design of this luxury sedan incorporates an upright front end and a new interpretation of the twin circular headlights and BMW kidney grille to add a powerful and distinctive presence to the exterior.

As standard, the new BMW 7 series come with adaptive LED headlights, including matrix high beams and the BMW Selective Beam non-dazzling high beam assistant. Its headlights house crystals, from Swarovski no less, and have an illuminating welcome and goodbye messages.

Alongside its two-tone option, nine metallic and one non-metallic finishes, the BMW 735i will offer individual paint finishes for owners at a later stage to the Singapore market.

BMW 735i interior cabin

Multi-sensory interior

An exclusive long wheelbase body maximises rear cabin space for occupants in the BMW 7 series. High-quality materials and an innovative in-car entertainment system also provide a relaxing ambience. Unique features such as the multi-sensory vehicle experience BMW iDrive and the Manoeuvre Assistant for automated parking and manoeuvring cement the status symbol of the new BMW 7 series.

BMW has significantly reduced the number of buttons, controls and switches in the cockpit with this generation of the BMW 7 series. The fully digital BMW Curved Display comprises a 12.3-inch information display behind the steering wheel and a 14.9-inch control display, all of which accompany nicely the new gear selector design.

Upgrades include an Executive Lounge option which forms part of the Gran Lusso Package. This offers a reclining option for rear passengers with a full leg rest as well as incredible leg space behind the front seats for a full business class experience. Four-zone air conditioning enables every corner of the cabin to be tailored to its occupants’ well-being.

A panoramic glass roof Sky Lounge is optional. It comes with multi-coloured illuminated light graphic embedded within the glass, and offers a spectacular view in and out of the new BMW 7 series.

>>BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF THE BMW 7 SERIES

A red BMW i7

The new BMW i7

The new all-electric BMW i7 marks new territory for the German marque in Singapore. For those heeding the push for electrification, this flagship sedan is a welcome addition to the luxury EV market in Singapore.

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Iconic infotainment

The exterior of the BMW i7 xDrive60 (model that is available here) sees the kidney grille fully enclosed to optimise airflow. Decorative elements in BMW i Blue as standard also mark the car out as an electric model.

>>DOWNLOAD: BMW i7 xDrive60 specifications card

Within, the electric sedan boasts all the plush comforts of its BMW 7 series sibling. It also offers a unique aural experience with the BMW IconicSounds Electric. That means customers will be greeted with the acoustic work of music icon Hans Zimmer when starting, accelerating, and stopping, which enhances the electric driving experience.

We are accustomed to seeing large displays and entertainment features in the BMW 7 Series line-up. But what stands out most with the new BMW i7 is the optional 31.3-inch TV screen, which folds down from the cabin roof to behind the front seats, to entertain the rear occupants! This Theatre Screen system is a first in a BMW. As an option also, it can be paired with a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, as well as mobile-sized touchscreens in the armrests of the rear doors.

Dynamic performance

Electric drivetrains usually mean greater efficiency and more torque. With the latest BMW i7, its twin motor setup produces a peak power of 544hp or 400kW, and an impressive 745Nm of torque. It also makes it two seconds quicker (4.7s from 0-100km/h) than its petrol-powered brother. The top speed of the BMW i7 is electronically limited to 240 km/h.

Stability controls, precise steering, and chassis control functions also all work together for that ultimate driving experience, even in adverse road and weather conditions.

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Impressive range and charging convenience

Finally, the car’s long-distance credentials. Improvements to the BMW eDrive technology, and the high-voltage battery’s energy density, have translated into an impressive WLTP cycle range of up to 625km for a single charge in the BMW i7 xDrive60.

The charging software for the BMW i7 has also been enhanced. There is even more precise control over the temperature of the slim high-volage battery to reduce recharge times; the ability to save charging profiles, as well as the BMW display maps which shows in greater detail the best route for charging optimally.

In Singapore, customers of the BMW i7 can opt for a home or public charging package. With home charging, they will get a wall-mounted AC chargers (charging rate of up to 11kWh) installed for free, which enables a full charge at an estimated 10 hours. Under the public charging package, customers will get 10,000 kWh for three years at Shell Recharge stations. There is no monthly cap for charging, and this works out to about 50,000 km of driving range, based on average energy consumption at 20kWh/100km.

The BMW i7 is also compatible with all Type 2 public charging stations across the island.

>>BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF THE BMW i7

BMW 7 series and BMW i7

Conclusion

The BMW 7 Series has been the luxury sedan of choice for many discerning drivers since it first appeared in 1977. This seventh generation will continue to draw customers with its bold styling, plush comfort, high technology, and unparalleled driving dynamics. At the same time, with a fully-electric version in the BMW i7, it will also attract EV fans desiring all that the luxury sedan has to offer and more.

Both models are amazing vehicles to be in – whether driving one or being driven in one. Deciding between the two really comes down to whether you prefer petrol or electrification.

The BMW 735i is available in two trims in Singapore and costs from $637,888* (including COE). The price of the BMW i7 xDrive60 starts from $730,888* (including COE).

* Indicative pricing at time of publication (updated 4 April 2023)

Note: Actual car specifications may vary from the pictures shown

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