The all new BMW i7

Overview

Electric powertrains offer significant advantages in large luxury vehicles, exemplified by the 2024 BMW i7. This model boasts a potent EV powertrain characterized by near-silent operation, elevating the sense of tranquility that luxury consumers seek. Combined with a plush ride and a generously appointed cabin crafted from premium materials, the i7 presents an electric 7-series that justifies its price tag and merits recognition with a 2024 Editors' Choice award. Moreover, the i7 caters to tech-savvy buyers with its abundance of digital displays and the option for a drop-down theater system in the rear—a feature not available in its primary competitor, the Mercedes-Benz EQS.

The i7 xDrive60 variant delivers 536 horsepower and an impressive driving range of up to 318 miles, while the performance-oriented M70 trim ramps up power to 650 hp and offers a range of approximately 295 miles. Additionally, a rear-wheel drive eDrive50 model is available, likely providing the most extensive driving range among the lineup. These range figures position the i7 competitively against rivals like the Porsche Taycan and the Tesla Model S, neither of which matches the lavish luxury offered by the i7.

Ranking

#4 in Best Luxury Electric Cars

1. Lucid Motors Air

2. Porsche Taycan

3. Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo

4. BMW i7

5. Genesis Electrified G80

6. Maserati GranTurismo Folgore

For the 2024 model year, BMW has introduced two new variants to the i7 lineup: the 650-hp M70 and the 449-hp eDrive50 models. The M70 boasts a more powerful electric powertrain, propelling the sedan to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds while still offering an estimated 295-mile driving range per charge. On the other hand, the eDrive50 utilizes a single rear-mounted motor, although BMW has yet to disclose its performance or range figures. Apart from these additions, we anticipate that the i7 will largely remain unchanged for the new year.

Prices

When considering pricing and which model to select, the 2024 BMW i7 starts at $106,695 and can reach up to $169,495 depending on the trim and optional features. Unless you have a penchant for impromptu drag races, opting for the xDrive60 model is recommended. It delivers ample power with its 536-hp powertrain and comes equipped with a plethora of desirable features. Similar to its gasoline-powered counterpart, the i7 offers a luxurious limousine-like experience, especially when configured with the optional Executive Lounge package, which enhances rear-seat comfort with plush reclining seats and massage functionality.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance

In terms of EV motor, power, and performance, all-wheel drive i7 variants utilize a similar electric powertrain setup as the brand's iX SUV, featuring two electric motors—one for each axle—producing a combined 536 horsepower. During testing, the i7 xDrive60 achieved a 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds. The rear-wheel drive eDrive50 model generates 449 horsepower, likely resulting in slightly slower performance. The M70 model, with its 650 horsepower, is estimated to reach 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds

While the i7 offers surprisingly agile handling for its size, it's not tailored for sports sedan enthusiasts. Instead, it prioritizes comfort and luxury, as evident in its smooth ride and quiet cabin. The M70 variant injects more excitement into the driving experience, although it doesn't match the sharpness of BMW's dedicated M-series vehicles. If you prefer a gasoline-powered 7-series, that option is still available and reviewed separately.

Regarding range, the i7 xDrive60, equipped with standard 19-inch wheels, boasts an estimated driving range of 318 miles per charge. However, opting for larger 20- or 21-inch wheels can decrease this range. During our highway fuel-economy test, our xDrive60 test vehicle, fitted with 21-inch wheels, managed to achieve a range of 260 miles.

The EPA projects the eDrive50 to offer up to 321 miles per charge, while the M70 model should deliver around 291 miles per charge. The i7's substantial 101.7-kWh battery pack supports fast charging, capable of adding 80 miles of range in just 10 minutes at DC fast charging stations. Additionally, BMW is including three years of complimentary 30-minute charging sessions at Electrify America charging stations with every new i7.

Fuel economy

In terms of fuel economy, the EPA estimates that the i7 xDrive60 should achieve up to 87 MPGe in the city and 92 MPGe on the highway. The M70 and eDrive50 variants may slightly vary in their efficiency ratings. For detailed information on the i7's fuel economy, the EPA's website offers comprehensive data.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo