After days of teasing, BMW has revealed the 2027 7 Series. It’s a major overhaul for the luxury sedan, particularly for eco-conscious drivers buying the i7 EV.
All models share the Neue Klasse design language that premiered in cars like the iX3, including a “monolithic” exterior that emphasizes BMW’s signature kidney grilles as well as a minimialist, angular interior. As a chauffeur-friendly car, it not only includes ample passenger technology (more on this later) but an optional 7 Series Protection model with armor to protect against explosives and firearms.
Appropriately for an Earth Day launch, BMW is also touting more sustainable production with more use of recycled materials, renewable energy, and lower CO2 emissions, especially for the i7.
EV, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains
The i7 boasts long range through a new battery
As rumors suggested, BMW is offering multiple powerplants for the 2027 7 Series with varying degrees of electrification.
The highlight is the all-electric i7. The 2027 model uses sixth-generation battery cell tech, co-developed with Rimac Technology, that fits a 20 percent denser 112.5 kWh power pack into a similar space. That nets a “significantly longer” range of 447 miles for the i7 50 and 60 xDrive trims based on the WLTP testing cycle, according to BMW. We’d expect a shorter range with U.S. EPA testing, but that still makes the i7 more suitable for cross-country trips.
The i7 50 and 60 xDrive claim respective 0-60 mph times of 5.5 and 4.8 seconds thanks to their 455 horsepower and 544 horsepower dual-motor setups. An M70 xDrive version with 680 horsepower cuts that time to 3.5 seconds if you use a “one-foot rollout.” BMW supports up to 250 kW fast charging that it says can bring you from 10% to 80% in 28 minutes.
You can also buy the 7 Series in two plug-in hybrid variants, the 750e xDrive and M760e xDrive, that muster respective 0-60 mph sprints of 4.8 and 4.2 seconds.
There are two “mild” hybrids, the 740 xDrive with a 400 horsepower six-cylinder gas engine and the 740d xDrive with a 313 horsepower six-cylinder diesel. They’re still relatively quick with 60 mph dashes in 5.1 and 5.7 seconds, but there’s notably no purely combustion-powered M-series—you’ll have to go at least partially electric.
- Radar Band Detection
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X, K, Ka
- Companion App
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Drive Smarter
The Escort MAX 360c MKII is the follow-up to the standard MAX 360c radar detector. This enhanced version features longer-range detection with its updated dual-antenna platform and increased false alert filtering through Blackfin DSP integration.
New Passenger Screen and Alexa+
The 8K theater screen also makes its return
As mentioned earlier, 7 Series customers are sometimes more likely to have chauffeurs driving them than to take the wheel themselves and the 2027 model’s interior reflects that focus.
You will find driver-centric features, such as a Panoramic iDrive infotainment system (including a 17.9-inch center display), a Panoramic Vision system with key information visible to everyone, and a “3D” heads-up display just for the driver.
However, there’s also a new, standard 14.6-inch Passenger Screen that lets the front passenger watch videos, run apps, and even take video calls without distracting the driver. It will even auto-dim if the driver looks over, and scales back when there’s no one in the front passenger seat.
As in previous models, there’s an optional 31.3-inch Theater Screen that gives rear-seat passengers an 8K super-wide display for videos, apps, and video calls. You can get work done without having to bring out your laptop or phone. Accordingly, there are options for up to a 36-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system with “4D” (read: vibration) audio and Dolby Atmos.
The 7 Series runs on BMW’s Android-based Operating System X and will include an AI helper when Amazon Alexa+ support comes in the second half of 2026. You can use conversational commands with natural follow-ups. If you ask where you can find the most famous painting in the world (Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa), it will not only give the answer but provide directions if you say “take me there” afterward.
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Pricing, availability, and competition
Mercedes is the clear alternative
BMW has yet to share pricing for the 2027 7 Series, including the i7. However, it expects production to start in July 2026, with deliveries soon afterward. Most models should be available in the U.S., although we wouldn’t expect the 740d given that BMW phased out diesels in the U.S. after the 2018 model year.
The competition is clear: BMW is mainly taking on German upscale sedans like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi S8, and Porsche Panamera, with occasional rivals like the Lexus LS. While comparisons are difficult in this pre-production stage, it’s safe to say BMW is counting on a mix of its “ultimate driving machine” reputation, Neue Klasse design, and passenger luxuries (there’s no direct Theater Screen equivalent) to win you over.
BMW i7 or Mercedes EQS?
The i7 announcement comes just days after the unveiling of its most obvious challenger, the 2027 Mercedes EQS. Both are large luxury electric sedans that promise sporty driving as well as tech-forward interiors and extensive passenger comforts.
This time there are clear advantages and drawbacks. BMW can’t compete against Mercedes’ estimated 575-mile range, but it also has a bolder design, more powertrain options, and unique touches like the Theater Screen. The EQS’ more conservative style may be appealing precisely because it doesn’t draw attention, however, and Mercedes still emphasizes a smooth ride even as it promises sportier driving.
Source: BMW
Stephan is the sports journalist for the Maple Grove Report.
