Wikipedia

BMW 7 Series

Range of luxury sedans from BMW

The BMW 7 Series is a full-size luxury sedan made by the German car company BMW. It has been produced since 1977 [1] and is the successor to the BMW E3 "New Six" sedan. The 7 Series is BMW`s flagship car and is currently in its seventh generation.

BMW 7 Series
2019 BMW 740Li (G11, facelift)
Overview
ManufacturerBMW
Production1977–present
Body and chassis
ClassFull-size luxury car (F)
Body style4-door saloon
Chronology
PredecessorBMW New Six

First generation (E23; 1977)

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BMW 7 Series (E23)
 
Overview
Production1977–June 1986[2]
285,029 built[3]
Assembly
DesignerPaul Bracq, Manfred Rennen
Body and chassis
ClassFull-size luxury car (F)
Body style4-door sedan/saloon
LayoutFR layout
Powertrain
Engine
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,795 mm (110.0 in)[5]
Length
  • 4,860 mm (191.3 in)[5]
  • 5,014 mm (197.4 in) (US spec)
Width1,800 mm (70.9 in)[5]
Height1,430 mm (56.3 in)[5]
Curb weight1,470–1,629 kg (3,241–3,591 lb)
Chronology
PredecessorBMW E3
SuccessorBMW 7 Series (E32)

The E23 is the first generation of the BMW 7 Series and was produced from 1977 to 1987. It was designed as a 4-door sedan with 6-cylinder engines and replaced the E3 sedans.

From 1983 to 1987, a turbocharged 6-cylinder engine was offered in some markets.

The E23 was known for introducing many new electronic features for BMW. These included an onboard computer, a service interval indicator, a "check control panel" that used warning lights to show system issues to the driver, a dictaphone, and advanced climate control systems. It was also the first BMW model to feature an anti-lock braking system (ABS), a driver's airbag, and double-link front suspension.

Second generation (E32; 1986)

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BMW 7 Series (E32)
 
730i
Overview
ManufacturerBMW
ProductionJune 1986–April 1994 [6][7]
Model years1987–1994
AssemblyGermany: Dingolfing[8]
Designer
Body and chassis
ClassFull-size luxury car (F)
Body style4-door sedan/saloon
LayoutLongitudinal front-engine, rear-wheel-drive
RelatedAlpina B12
Powertrain
Engine
  • 3.0–3.4 L M30 I6
  • 3.0–4.0 L M60 V8
  • 5.0 L M70 V12
Transmission
Dimensions
WheelbaseSWB: 2,833 mm (111.5 in)[10]
LWB: 2,947 mm (116.0 in)
LengthSWB: 4,910 mm (193.3 in)
LWB: 5,029 mm (198.0 in)
Width1,845 mm (72.6 in)
HeightSWB: 1,400 mm (55.1 in)
LWB: 1,435 mm (56.5 in)
Curb weight1,720–1,930 kg (3,792–4,255 lb)[11]
Chronology
PredecessorBMW 7 Series (E23)
SuccessorBMW 7 Series (E38)

The E32 is the second generation of the BMW 7 Series, produced from 1986 to 1994. It was initially offered with a straight-six or V12 engine, making it the first German passenger car with a V12 engine since World War II. In 1992, V8 engines were also introduced.

The E32 introduced several new features for BMW, such as Electronic Damper Control, V12 and V8 engines, double glazing, and the CAN bus electronic protocol. It was also the first BMW to have Xenon headlamps, traction control, and dual-zone climate control. The E32 750i was notable for being the first BMW to follow the company’s self-imposed speed limit of 250 km/h (155 mph). The 'iL' models marked the first time BMW offered a long-wheelbase version.

Third Generation (E38) (1994)

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BMW 7 Series (E38)
 
Overview
ProductionApril 1994 – July 2001
Model years1995–2001
AssemblyGermany: Dingolfing
DesignerBoyke Boyer
Body and chassis
ClassFull-size luxury car (F)
Body style4-door sedan
LayoutRear-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission
Dimensions
WheelbaseSWB: 2,930 mm (115.4 in)
LWB: 3,070 mm (120.9 in)
LengthSWB: 4,985 mm (196.3 in)
LWB: 5,124 mm (201.7 in)
Width1,862 mm (73.3 in)
Height1,425–1,435 mm (56.1–56.5 in)
Curb weight1,710–2,085 kg (3,770–4,597 lb)
Chronology
PredecessorBMW 7 Series (E32)
SuccessorBMW 7 Series (E65)

The E38 is the third generation of the BMW 7 Series, produced from 1994 to 2001. It was available in both standard length and long-wheelbase ("iL" models) sedan versions.

The available petrol engines included straight-six, V8, and V12 options. The E38 was the first 7 Series to offer a diesel engine, starting with a turbocharged straight-six, and later a twin-turbocharged V8 in 1999.

The E38 was the first car to have curtain airbags. It was also the first European car to offer satellite navigation and the first BMW with an in-built television.

In 1999, the E38 received a facelift.

Fourth Generation (E65/E66/E67/E68 2001)

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BMW 7 Series (E65/E66)
 
Overview
Production2001–2008
AssemblyGermany: Dingolfing
Designer
Body and chassis
ClassFull-size luxury car (F)
Body style4-door sedan
LayoutRear-wheel drive
RelatedAlpina B7 (E65)
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission6-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase
  • 2,990 mm (117.7 in) (E65)
  • 3,130 mm (123.2 in) (E66)
Length
  • 5,029 mm (198.0 in) (E65)
  • 5,169 mm (203.5 in) (E66)
Width1,902 mm (74.9 in)
Height1,484–1,492 mm (58.4–58.7 in)
Curb weight1,710–2,040 kg (3,770–4,497 lb)
Chronology
PredecessorBMW 7 Series (E38)
SuccessorBMW 7 Series (F01)

The E65/E66/E67/E68 is the fourth generation of the BMW 7 Series, produced from 2001 to 2008. It was available in both standard length and long-wheelbase ("Li" models) sedan versions.

This generation introduced several new features for BMW. It was the first to include the iDrive system, "flame-surfacing" exterior styling, active anti-roll bars, a 6-speed automatic transmission, an electronic smart key (eliminating the traditional metallic key), and night vision. The 760i model was notable for being the first production V12 engine to use direct injection.

Fifth Generation (F01/F02/F03/F04 2008)

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BMW 7 Series (F01)
 
Overview
ManufacturerBMW
Model code
  • F01 (short-wheelbase)
  • F02 (long-wheelbase)
  • F03 (high-security)
  • F04 (ActiveHybrid)
Production2008–2015
Assembly
DesignerKarim Habib
Body and chassis
ClassFull-size luxury car (F)
Body style4-door sedan
Layout
PlatformBMW L6[14]
Related
Powertrain
Engine
Electric motor3-phase synchronous electric motor
Transmission6-speed ZF automatic transmission
8-speed ZF automatic transmission
Hybrid drivetrainParallel Hybrid (ActiveHybrid 7)
Dimensions
WheelbaseSWB: 3,070 mm (120.9 in)
LWB: 3,210 mm (126.4 in)
LengthSWB: 5,072 mm (199.7 in)
LWB: 5,212 mm (205.2 in)
Width1,902 mm (74.9 in)
Height1,478–1,486 mm (58.2–58.5 in)
Curb weight1,955–2,274 kg (4,310–5,013 lb)
Chronology
PredecessorBMW 7 Series (E65)
SuccessorBMW 7 Series (G11)

The F01/F02/F03/F04 is the fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series, produced from 2008 to 2015. It was available in both standard length and long-wheelbase ("Li" models) sedan versions.

The F01 was the first BMW to offer a hybrid drivetrain called "ActiveHybrid 7," an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a turbocharged V12 engine. It was also the first 7 Series to come with a turbocharged petrol engine and all-wheel drive (xDrive).

In 2013, the F01/F02/F03/F04 models received a minor styling facelift.

Sixth Generation (G11/G12 2015)

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BMW 7 Series (G11/G12)
 
Overview
ManufacturerBMW
ProductionJuly 2015 – 2022
Model years2016–2022
Assembly
DesignerNader Faghihzadeh[15]
Alexey Kezha (facelift)[16]
Body and chassis
ClassFull-size luxury car (F)
Body style4-door sedan
Layout
RelatedBMW 5 Series (G30)
BMW 6 Series (G32)
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission8-speed automatic
Hybrid drivetrainPlug-in hybrid
Dimensions
Wheelbase3,070 mm (120.9 in)
3,210 mm (126.4 in) (LWB; G12)
Length5,098–5,268 mm (200.7–207.4 in)
Width1,902 mm (74.9 in)
Height1,467–1,479 mm (57.8–58.2 in)
Kerb weight1,755–2,255 kg (3,869–4,971 lb)[17]
Chronology
PredecessorBMW 7 Series (F01)
SuccessorBMW 7 Series (G70)

The G11/G12 is the sixth generation of the BMW 7 Series, which began production in 2015. It was first revealed on June 10, 2015, at BMW's headquarters in Munich, and had its public debut at the 2015 International Motor Show Germany.

The G11 refers to the short-wheelbase model, while the long-wheelbase version is known as the G12 and includes an additional "L" designation.

The G11/G12 is the first BMW lineup built on the modular OKL platform (Oberklasse, meaning luxury class). This platform uses carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer in its structural chassis, a technology first seen in BMW i models.

As part of BMW’s strategy to offer plug-in hybrid options for all future models, both the short and long-wheelbase versions became available with hybrid powertrains, designated 740e and 740Le, starting in 2016.

A facelifted version, known as the LCI model, was introduced in 2019 and featured a larger grille.

Seventh Generation (G70 2022)

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BMW 7 Series / i7 (G70)
 
2023 BMW 7 Series (Germany)
Overview
ManufacturerBMW
Also calledBMW i7 (electric)
ProductionJuly 2022 – present[18]
Model years2023–present (North America)
Assembly
DesignerJozef Kabaň,[19] Domagoj Đukec,[20] Sebastian Simm (exterior)
Henri von Freyberg (interior)[21]
Body and chassis
ClassFull-size luxury car (F)
Body style4-door sedan
Layout
PlatformCluster Architecture (CLAR) (CLAR-II/WE)
Related
Powertrain
Engine
Electric motor
List
Power output
List
  • 200 kW (268 hp; 272 PS) (735i)
  • 210 kW (282 hp; 286 PS) (740d xDrive)
  • 280 kW (375 hp; 381 PS) (740i)
  • 335 kW (449 hp; 455 PS) (i7 eDrive50)
  • 360 kW (483 hp; 489 PS) (750e xDrive)
  • 400 kW (536 hp; 544 PS) (760i xDrive)
  • 400 kW (536 hp; 544 PS) (i7 xDrive60)
  • 420 kW (563 hp; 571 PS) (M760e xDrive)
  • 441 kW (591 hp; 600 PS) (i7 M70 xDrive)
Transmission
Hybrid drivetrain
Battery
  • 20 Ah lithium-ion (mild hybrid)
  • 18.7 kWh lithium-ion (plug-in hybrid)
  • 105.7 (101.7 usable) kWh lithium-ion (i7)
Electric range488–625 km (303–388 mi) (WLTP, i7)
Plug-in charging
  • 7.4 kW (AC, PHEV)
  • Three-phase 11 kW / 22 kW (AC, i7)
  • 195 kW (DC, i7)
Dimensions
Wheelbase3,215 mm (126.6 in)
Length5,391 mm (212.2 in)
Width1,950 mm (76.8 in)
Height1,544 mm (60.8 in)
Kerb weight
  • 2,075–2,270 kg (4,575–5,004 lb)
  • 2,595–2,770 kg (5,721–6,107 lb) (i7)[23]
Chronology
PredecessorBMW 7 Series (G11)

The BMW G70 debuted in April 2022 and includes both traditional and electric models. The electric variant, known as the BMW i7, was introduced alongside it. The G70 lineup features the Inline 6 740i and V8 760i models. It also adopts horizontally split headlight units, similar to those on the X7 LCI, which was launched in April 2022 as well. While engine options include a 3.0-liter Inline 6 and a 4.4-liter V8, the G70 does not offer a V12 engine.

BMW i7

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The BMW i7 is the electric version of the 7 Series, unveiled in April 2022. The i7 xDrive60 features two electric motors producing a combined output of 536 hp (400 kW; 543 PS) and 553 lb⋅ft (750 N⋅m) of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0–97 km/h) in 4.5 seconds and has an estimated EPA range of 300–318 miles (483–512 km).

Markets

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The BMW 7 Series is sold worldwide and is a popular choice in many markets. The car is sold in many places such as Europe, North America, and China.

References

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  1. ↑ "BMW 7 Series models - overview". www.bmw.com. Archived from the original on 20 January 2012.
  2. ↑ Vijayenthiran, Viknesh (29 July 2007). "BMW 7-series turns 30". Retrieved 7 May 2020.
  3. ↑ Oswald, Werner (2001). Deutsche Autos 1945–1990, Band 4 (in German) (1. ed.). Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 3-613-02131-5.
  4. ↑ World Cars 1980, pages 340-341
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 "Fahrbericht: BMW 728 / 730 / 733 i". Auto, Motor und Sport (in German). 11 1977: 34–42. 25 May 1977.
  6. ↑ Oswald, Werner (2001). Deutsche Autos 1945–1990, Band 4 (1. ed.). Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 3-613-02131-5.
  7. ↑ Kittler, Eberhard (2001). Deutsche Autos seit 1990, Band 5 (1. ed.). Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 3-613-02128-5.
  8. ↑ (BMW Plant Dingolfing)"Vehicle manufacturer profiles". www.automotiveworld.com. Retrieved 2011-09-24.
  9. ↑ "Homage to Claus Luthe". www.kulturgut-mobilitaet.de (in German). Retrieved 10 March 2017.
  10. ↑ "1986 BMW 730i Automatic E32". www.carfolio.com. 2008-04-03. Retrieved 2011-09-24.
  11. ↑ "1987 BMW 750iL E32". www.carfolio.com. 2008-04-03. Retrieved 2011-09-24.
  12. ↑ "Vehicle manufacturer profiles". Automotive World. Retrieved 2011-08-29.
  13. ↑ "Bavarian Auto Group". Bag-eg.com. 2010-04-09. Archived from the original on 22 July 2010. Retrieved 2010-06-28.
  14. ↑ "Editorial: BMW's Ultimate Gamble". 6 July 2010.
  15. ↑ Smyth, Mark (2015-09-10). "International Launch: BMW 7 Series". BDlive. Retrieved 2015-11-30.
  16. ↑ Olivia, Jacob (10 March 2019). "BMW 7 Series Facelift Designer Explains The Giant Grille". Motor1. Retrieved 11 March 2019.
  17. ↑ "BMW 7 Series Sedan: Technical data". BMW. Retrieved 2015-11-30.
  18. ↑ "Electrifying luxury: Production launch of the new BMW 7 Series in Dingolfing". www.press.bmwgroup.com. Retrieved 2023-08-24.
  19. ↑ Boeriu, Horatiu (2021-12-28). "Rendering: 2023 BMW 7 Series (G70) looks straight from Transformers". BMW BLOG. Retrieved 2022-09-06.
  20. ↑ Boeriu, Horatiu (2022-04-20). "2023 BMW 7 Series and i7 design explained by Domagoj Dukec". BMW BLOG. Retrieved 2022-04-23.
  21. ↑ Barlow, Jason (2022-11-05). "BMW 7 Series Interior Layout & Technology Top Gear". Top Gear. Retrieved 2023-05-26.
  22. ↑ "BMW i7 eDrive50 introduced – new entry-level single-motor RWD variant with 455 PS, up to 611 km range". Paul Tan's Automotive News. 2023-05-24. Retrieved 2023-05-29.
  23. ↑ "The new BMW 7 Series". BMW. Retrieved 2022-04-23.
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