In a significant development for the Indian automotive market, BMW has introduced two new models, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive and the BMW 740d M Sport. Let us now explore what makes these cars unique.
Pricing and Production
The BMW i7 M70 xDrive, the first all-electric M car from BMW, comes with a price tag of Rs 2.50 crore. This makes it Rs 47 lakh more expensive than its regular xDrive 60 variant counterpart. In contrast, the 740d M Sport is priced at Rs 1.81 crore, which is Rs 3 lakh more than its petrol-powered sibling. It's worth noting that the i7 is imported as a completely built-up unit (CBU), while the 740d M Sport is assembled locally in India.
Design and Appearance
Both the BMW 7 Series 740d M Sport and the i7 M70 xDrive share a similar design language.
- The 740d M Sport retains the aesthetics of its petrol counterpart, featuring a commanding presence with a large illuminated kidney grille, aerodynamically designed 20-inch alloy wheels, and M Sport badges. At the rear, sleek LED taillamps and a substantial rear bumper complete the look.
- The i7 M70 xDrive maintains the same design cues as its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart. However, it adds M-specific enhancements, such as a blacked-out kidney grille, M side skirts, M logos, and larger 21-inch aerodynamic alloy wheels.
Interior Features
Inside both the ICE and electric versions of the 7 Series, you'll find a common dashboard design. The all-electric M70 xDrive offers carbon fiber trims with the option of black or grey M Merino leather upholstery. Both the 740d M Sport and M70 xDrive include M-specific highlights, such as M door sills and a 3-spoke M Walknappa leather steering wheel with an M badge.
- In terms of features, both versions boast a 31.3-inch 8K touchscreen display for rear passengers and a curved display setup, comprising a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch digital driver's display. The infotainment system operates on BMW's Operating System 8.
- The motorized front and back seats on both models also have massage features, and ambient lighting is available.
- The ICE version of the BMW 7 Series includes a powerful 1965W 36-speaker sound system, while the electric M70 model comes equipped with a 35-speaker sound system with the same output.
Safety and Technology
Both ICE and electric versions of the BMW 7 Series prioritize safety. They are equipped with seven airbags, ABS with EBD, dynamic stability control, cornering brake control, 3-point seatbelts for all passengers, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features like lane change warning, blind spot assistance, and rear crossing traffic warning.
A step further is provided by the electric version, which includes autonomous emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
Powertrain Options
The BMW 7 Series offers a variety of powertrain options, including a petrol engine, a diesel engine, and two electric choices. The specifications of these powertrains are detailed below:
BMW 7 Series
- Engine: 3-litre inline 6 Cyl Turbo Petrol and 3-litre inline 6 Cyl Diesel
- Power: 381PS and 286PS
- Torque: 520Nm and 650Nm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Acceleration 0-100kmph: 5.4 seconds and 6 seconds
- Both the petrol and diesel engines are paired with a 48V electric motor, providing an additional 18PS and 200Nm.
BMW i7
Models: xDrive60 and M70 xDrive
- Battery: 101.7kWh
- Power: 544PS and 650PS
- Torque: 745Nm and 1,015Nm
- Range (WLTP claimed): Up to 625km and 560km
- Acceleration 0-100kmph: 4.7 seconds and 3.7 seconds
- The M70 xDrive version of the i7 offers more power and torque for faster acceleration, although this comes at the expense of a slightly reduced driving range.
Both ICE and electric variants are equipped with an adaptive air suspension system that automatically adjusts the ride height based on the terrain, ensuring both comfortable and efficient handling.
Rivals
In the Indian market, the BMW 7 Series competes with the Mercedes-Benz S Class and Audi A8L, while the i7 takes on the Mercedes-Benz EQS. Specifically, the M70 xDrive variant of the i7 rivals the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53. If you want a fancy, fast, and environmentally friendly car, BMW's latest models in India have some interesting choices for you.