As BMW continues to push the boundaries of electric mobility, the 2026 BMW i7 stands as a bold representation of its vision for future luxury. Building on the foundation laid by the 2023 and 2024 i7 models, the upcoming 2026 edition promises to refine and enhance the electric flagship sedan with new technology, greater efficiency, and elevated luxury. Designed to rival the likes of the Mercedes-Benz EQS and Lucid Air, the i7 is more than just an electric car—it’s a technological masterpiece wrapped in comfort and performance.
This article examines everything we currently know about the 2026 BMW i7, including its anticipated exterior and interior updates, powertrain capabilities, and estimated pricing and release date.
2026 BMW i7 Exterior Design
The 2026 BMW i7 is expected to maintain the bold design language introduced with its predecessors, including the large, illuminated kidney grille and split-headlamp design. BMW is likely to make small refinements for better aerodynamics and visual sharpness — think slightly slimmer lighting elements, new wheel designs, and updated bumpers to align with the latest design trends.
The i7’s silhouette will remain long and elegant, emphasizing its full-size sedan status. Blue BMW i-specific accents and flush door handles will continue to signal its electric identity, while optional M Sport packages may add more aggressive design cues such as larger air intakes and blacked-out trim. Expect new exterior color options and more customization choices for the 2026 model year.
2026 BMW i7 Interior Design
Inside, the 2026 i7 will double down on digital luxury. BMW’s Curved Display—featuring a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen—will likely be upgraded with crisper resolution and faster processing thanks to BMW Operating System 9 or newer. Expect deeper integration of AI-assisted features, voice commands, and connected services.
One of the standout features expected to return is the optional 31.3-inch 8K Theater Screen for rear passengers, transforming the i7 into a rolling cinema when combined with Bowers & Wilkins surround sound and executive lounge seating.
Sustainability will continue to play a role, with premium materials such as recycled plastics, vegan leather, wool-blend seat fabrics, and open-pore wood trim. Ambient lighting, panoramic glass roofs with LED patterns, and customizable seat massage settings will all help maintain the i7’s luxury credentials.
2026 BMW i7 Engine Performance and Range
While BMW hasn’t officially announced 2026-specific specs, the i7 lineup is expected to mirror or slightly improve upon the current offerings, which include:
-
i7 eDrive50 (RWD): Estimated 450–500 hp
-
i7 xDrive60 (AWD): 536 hp, 0–60 mph in ~4.5 seconds
-
i7 M70 xDrive (AWD): 650 hp, 0–60 mph in ~3.5 seconds
The 2026 i7 will likely include updated eDrive components with improved cooling, range optimization, and slightly faster DC fast charging — possibly up to 220 kW. Range will vary by model but is expected to improve slightly, with estimates between 310–345 miles (500–555 km) on a single charge, depending on the trim.
Regenerative braking, multiple drive modes, and adaptive suspension systems will continue to deliver a smooth, quiet, and engaging driving experience.
Comparison: 2026 BMW i7 vs Rivals
| Rival | Power / Spec | Drivetrain | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW i7 (2026) | eDrive50: ~450 hp xDrive60: ~536 hp M70 xDrive: ~650 hp |
AWD / RWD (all-electric) | Exceptional comfort, cutting-edge tech (Theater Screen, iDrive 9), superb refinement, strong performance for its size. | Very high price, heavy body affects efficiency, complex tech may intimidate some users. |
| Mercedes-Benz EQS | 355–750 hp (AMG EQS 53) | RWD / AWD | Benchmark interior luxury, quiet ride, advanced MBUX Hyperscreen technology. | Less driver engagement, steering feedback not as sharp as BMW’s. |
| Audi A8 e-tron / future EV flagship | Estimated 450–600 hp | AWD (EV) | Sophisticated design, solid cabin quality, expected strong performance with Quattro stability. | Not yet released globally, unknown real-world range and charging speed. |
| Lucid Air (Touring / Grand Touring) | 620–1,050 hp | RWD / AWD | Industry-leading range (up to 830 km WLTP), ultra-modern design, spacious interior. | Expensive, limited service network, new brand credibility still developing. |
| Tesla Model S Plaid | 1,020 hp | AWD (tri-motor) | Incredible acceleration (0–100 km/h in ~2 seconds), strong EV ecosystem, continuous OTA updates. | Minimalist interior lacks opulence, build quality inconsistencies, less luxurious feel than BMW or Mercedes. |
| Genesis G90 Electrified | ~420 hp | AWD | Elegant styling, plush ride, competitive luxury features at lower price point. | Shorter range, slower charging, not as performance-oriented. |
Summary:
The 2026 BMW i7 embodies the pinnacle of BMW’s luxury and electrification strategy, combining limousine-level comfort with engaging dynamics. While the Mercedes EQS excels in pure comfort and the Lucid Air dominates on range, the i7 stands out for its blend of performance, craftsmanship, and immersive technology — maintaining BMW’s reputation as the driver’s luxury EV.
2026 BMW i7 Rumored Pricing and Release Date
BMW has not officially confirmed the 2026 i7’s price or release date, but based on typical product timelines and previous release patterns, here’s what we can expect:
-
Release Date: Late 2025 in Europe, early 2026 for North America and global markets
-
Estimated Starting Prices (USD):
-
i7 eDrive50: from $105,000
-
i7 xDrive60: from $120,000
-
i7 M70 xDrive: from $145,000
-
Optional packages, custom interiors, and rear-seat entertainment features can easily push fully-loaded versions past $165,000.
Conclusion
The 2026 BMW i7 reinforces BMW’s commitment to blending luxury and sustainability. With its striking exterior, high-tech and eco-conscious interior, and strong electric performance, the i7 will continue to set the benchmark in the premium electric sedan segment. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a luxury car connoisseur, or simply someone making the switch to EVs, the i7 proves that going electric doesn’t mean compromising on elegance or excitement.
Stay tuned as BMW reveals more details leading up to its official release—the i7 is ready to redefine what electric luxury truly means.
