If you’re considering a luxurious electric sedan, you now have more choices than ever before. Recently, new contenders like the Lucid Air, Mercedes-Benz EQS, Porsche Taycan, and even the Tesla Model S have entered the market. BMW has also joined the competition by launching the 2023 i7 xDrive60, an all-electric sedan that is built on the foundation of the latest 7 Series.
While its competitors are developed on dedicated electric vehicle platforms, BMW has taken a unique approach by electrifying the 7 Series. This means you can now opt for this large sedan with either a traditional combustion engine or an electric powertrain.
The i7, along with the entire 7 Series lineup, boasts a fresh exterior design that incorporates the newest iteration of BMW’s distinctive grille. Whether you like the i7’s appearance or not is subjective; it deviates from the sleekness of its rivals. In contrast to the more streamlined Model S or Taycan, the i7 possesses a commanding presence on the road, marked by its tall profile, upright hood, and squared rear end. Essentially, the i7’s conventional large sedan layout appeals more to buyers desiring a 7 Series that is also electric.
The spacious interior of the i7, particularly in the rear, benefits from its ample dimensions. Within the cabin, digital screens dominate the space. At the front, the BMW Curved Display interface integrates a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system runs on BMW’s latest iDrive software, with a rotary controller located on the center console. You can interact with the system through touch or voice commands to make calls or select music from the Bowers & Wilkins sound system.
For a unique experience, the rear passengers can enjoy the Theater Screen, a 31-inch display with 8k resolution that folds down from the headliner. This feature, with built-in Amazon Fire TV connectivity, sets the i7 apart from other luxury vehicles. Activating Theater Mode not only unveils the screen but also adjusts the side and rear window screens, transforming the back seat into a personal theater—ideal for relaxing while the car charges.
Additionally, 5.5-inch door-mounted touchscreens in the back allow passengers to access Theater Mode and personalize settings. The automatic doors that open and close at the touch of a button enhance the luxurious experience.
Equipped with a dual-motor powertrain producing 536 horsepower and 549 pound-feet of torque, the i7 can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. Though it accelerates briskly, it may not deliver the same exhilaration as other electric sedans like the Model S or Taycan. BMW is anticipated to launch an M Performance variant of the i7 for those seeking a sportier drive.
Boasting a range of up to 318 miles, the i7 supports 195-kW DC Fast Charging. In just 10 minutes of charging, you can add approximately 90 miles of range, or charge from 10% to 80% in 34 minutes. BMW offers 3 years of complimentary charging at Electrify America stations. Home charging from 0-100% takes less than 12 hours.
If you desire a high-performance electric sedan like the Porsche Taycan Turbo or Tesla Model S Plaid, the i7 may not be your first choice. The emphasis of the i7 is on luxury and comfort, with plush seating and an extremely quiet cabin. Its standard air suspension ensures a smooth ride without disturbances, perfect for enjoying entertainment on the go. While the i7 may lack the dynamic handling typical of BMW, passengers will appreciate the comfort and ambiance, often likened to a “lounge on wheels.”
For safety features, the i7 includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and blind spot monitoring. The available Highway Assistant system allows hands-free highway driving up to 85 mph, while the Parking Assistant simplifies parking maneuvers.
Starting at $120,295, including destination charges, the 2023 BMW i7 caters to 7 Series enthusiasts looking to transition to electric while retaining the elegance and sophistication associated with the 7 Series. Boasting a luxurious cabin, state-of-the-art tech features, and a comfortable driving experience, the i7 is the electric vehicle that promises a premium ride.
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