If you’ve read my review of the 2024 BMW i7 xDrive60, you’ll know it’s one of my top picks in the high-end EV market. The i7 fully embraces its identity as a 7 Series, which is what its customers are looking for.
At the Mobility Live Middle East 2024 Expo held in Abu Dhabi earlier this month, I got to spend some time with the BMW i7 xDrive60 in the M Sport trim, finished in Mineral White Metallic. As part of the seventh-generation 7 Series, this sedan is carving out a place in the segment for its large size and comprehensive features. Here are my observations of the German luxobarge:
Design
At first sight, the BMW i7’s considerable length of over 212 inches is quite evident. The split headlamps and the large kidney grille might not be to everyone’s taste; personally, I found them to be a bit too brash. However, the car’s side profile does present a more classic sedan appearance with a straight beltline and flattish roof, which is quite redeeming. The rear design, featuring sleek tail lamps and a muscular bumper, presents a sportier look, which I found more appealing than the other angles.
This particular color is ideal for those who like old school elegance and the timeless appeal often associated with white sedans. I feel that the pure and uncluttered look of Mineral White Metallic complements the minimalist angles of the i7, including the sides and rear. While the i7 is available in more vibrant options, Mineral White Metallic is a suitable choice for those who use it for professional or business applications. The build quality is as expected from BMW, with excellent panel alignment and paint finish that reflect well on its German manufacturing standards.
Interior
Once inside the car, I found the i7 to be minimalist yet luxurious, with the metal accents, open-pored wood, and extensive glass surfaces taking all my attention. Noteworthy is the ‘BMW Interaction Bar,’ a touch-sensitive, light-up feature that adds a modern touch to the cabin. The panoramic ‘Sky Lounge’ sunroof and detailed seat stitching complement the overall high-end feel of the interior, which also describes my experience in the BMW i5.
The car includes a 31.3-inch 8K ‘BMW Theatre Screen’ in the rear, which is great for watching movies or gaming, supported by connectivity for devices like a Sony PS5. The front boasts the familiar BMW Curved Display, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which are effective but could be more intuitive.
Getting in and out of the vehicle is straightforward, thanks to the large doors and elevated seat positioning. The driver’s seat offers ample support and includes a massage function, which enhances comfort. Rear passengers enjoy significant leg and knee room, controlled via a touch-operated display that also manages seat settings and climate control.
Specifications
Powered by two motors, the BMW i7 xDrive60 delivers 536 horsepower and 549 lb.-ft. of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in roughly four and a half seconds and reach a top speed of 130 mph. It houses a 101.7 kWh lithium-ion battery that supports fast charging, capable of recharging from 10% to 80% in 34 minutes, and provides a driving range of up to 317 miles depending on wheel size.
Also See: First Look Review: BMW iX M60, the exceptional performance SUV!
Price
With a starting price of $105,700 in the U.S., the i7 competes with the Lucid Air and the Mercedes EQS sedan. The xDrive60 with the M Sport packet featured in this article will set you back by $130,450.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 16 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading CEOs and vehicle developers from around the world.
