BMW updates 7 Series with more tech and refreshed looks

BMW has revealed the refreshed version of its flagship 7 Series.

Boasting a new look and a host of new technological features, the 7 Series also has a range of engines.

The exterior of the car has been extensively refreshed, with the prominent new kidney grille design at the front now 40 per cent larger, according to BMW. The headlights have been slimmed down, while chrome running strips have been added to the flanks of the car.

Refinement levels have also been worked on. BMW has fitted side glass that is 5.1mm thicker, while the sound-deadening material in the rear wheel arches has been revised – with both helping to keep the 7’s cabin as hushed as possible.

The new 7 Series is available, as before, in standard- and long-wheelbase layouts, but both have been extended by 22mm over the previous car.

Changes to the interior are subtler than those made to the exterior, although the overall material quality has been lifted, and it receives BMW’s latest Live Cockpit Professional operating system.

An updated version of the Parking Assistant has been included, along with a new Reversing Assistant. The latter can remember where the car has driven at slow speeds and reverse it up to 50m along that route.

Petrol powertrains include a 4.4-litre V8 with 523bhp, which features in the 750i xDrive and 750Li xDrive. Above it sits a range-topping 6.6-litre V12 with 577bhp, capable of sending the 7 Series to 60mph from 0 in under four seconds.

All three diesel choices use the same 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine, albeit in various stages of tune.

An updated plug-in hybrid version is also available, with a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol linked to an electric motor to produce a combined 388bhp.

The new 7 Series is slated to arrive in the UK this April. Full pricing has yet to be revealed, however.