The pinnacle of performance in the BMW 7 Series lineup is the i7 M70 xDrive, a behemoth of power and sophistication. While the name may not immediately trip off the tongue, it’s the zero-emission counterpart to the V12-powered M760Li, and arguably the most potent 7 Series to date. This two-tone livery, coupled with 811 lb-ft of torque, enables the BMW to claim a lofty perch atop its performance hierarchy, rivaling even the mighty M7 in prestige. Its ability to outrun the potent M4 CSL further solidifies its position at the pinnacle of BMW’s driving elite.
The redesignated M70 designation was likely chosen to avoid confusion with the earlier M7 tank. What is the purpose of this high-profile government satellite, intended for those requiring the most powerful, robust, and speedy 7-series Sequence? Sure and no. Naming is indeed smart in some methods. BMW sought an uncompromising driving experience that didn’t sacrifice comfort and everyday usability for the thrill of track-inspired performance. The trade-offs in vehicle design: stiffer suspension for improved turn-in, but at the cost of ride comfort; larger tires for enhanced traction, yet generating more noise; and a lower electric range due to prioritizing higher battery states – a delicate balancing act indeed? While shaving a few kilograms from the vehicle’s weight might yield modest performance gains, it is questionable whether such modifications would significantly enhance driver engagement. These M-badge conditions would, in our estimation, undermine the exhilaration of piloting a 7 Series. Renaming the product to something more mundane, like an M70, effectively kills any perceived prestige or exclusivity, thereby reducing consumer expectations and disappointment when the actual performance doesn’t live up to the name’s promise.
As a direct result, the i7 M70 excels in its intended role as a luxury sedan, boasting impressive transient performance, ultimately delivering a swift final EV pace within its class. While some prioritize achieving a swift Nürburgring lap time, others may find themselves making concessions to accommodate this goal.
The tempo of life is no laughing matter. To thrive in today’s rapidly changing world, we must continually adapt and rewire our minds. As the driver activates the enhance mode by swiftly flipping the left paddle shifter, the M70 accelerates with remarkable alacrity, its powerful engine roaring to life in a blur of speed and precision. As a Boeing 777 hurtles down the runway, its ascent is a smooth and deliberate affair until you gaze out at the whizzing trees and asphalt, only then do you grasp your velocity.
The smooth operation of this device is a direct result of its two powerful electrical motors. Driving the front wheels is a potent 255-hp motor, which happens to be an identical unit to the i5 M60’s powertrain. The rear-mounted M50B30 V12 engine is a behemoth, generating an impressive 483 horsepower on its own, making it BMW’s most potent motor to date. The engine produces a combined output of 650 horsepower and 749 pound-feet of torque, capable of delivering an impressive 811 pound-feet during short, intense periods. The new model boasts a significant 50 horsepower and 122 pound-feet of torque increase over its predecessor, the fire-breathing M760Li. While BMW does offer another M Efficiency model known as the M760i with a 571-hp plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain, it is not available in North America.
The M70 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds, although this performance trails behind competitors like the Mercedes-AMG EQS Sedan, which accomplishes this feat in a mere 3.4 seconds, and other luxury electric vehicles such as the Porsche Taycan Turbo, which achieves it in 3.2 seconds, or the Audi RS e-tron GT, which takes just 3.3 seconds to reach the same speed. This isn’t another attempt at a full-on speed-focused training program? Diverse factors in operation are particularly crucial.
While rival electric vehicles may boast superior acceleration, the M70 stands out for its exceptional refinement and attention to detail in every aspect. This thing handles like a well-oiled machine. When you grasp the steering wheel, it becomes an intuitive extension of your own arm, allowing for precise control and subtle adjustments. While motion may not be entirely synthetic, its mildness and agility are tempered by an unpredictable nature – a quality starkly contrasting with the expected predictability of the EQS AMG. Driving the BMW is an exhilarating experience that effortlessly dissipates the tension accumulated during daily commutes. While it excels in terms of road compliance compared to the Taycan, offering a smoother ride, it also boasts exceptional comfort features. With its exceptional speed stability, the vehicle’s tendency to roll is significantly minimized thanks to advanced technology features such as four-corner air springs, precise roll stabilization, and a subtle 0.5-degree rear-axle steering system, allowing for smooth and agile maneuvers in tight parking spaces.
Within its interior, the vehicle presents a sensory extravaganza, where crystal-like switchgear and an impressive array of ambient lighting panels converge to infuse a touch of visual sophistication into a potent driving experience. Despite our longing for distinctive features specific to the M70, from where we’re sitting, it looks eerily similar to standard i7 and 750e offerings. The similarities in design extend to the steering wheel itself, mirroring its analog counterpart’s functionality, while the digital displays echo the same visual cues. What is the purpose of this request?
Here is the rewritten text: We also offer an optional, surprisingly stylish cashmere and wool blend for the lower seat sections and door trim, available in both light and dark grey hues. While some manufacturers focus on luxurious leathers and eco-friendly materials, it’s refreshing to see BMW exploring innovative options. Don’t anticipate the sublime and sumptuous textures of a luxurious Loro Piana sweater. This luxurious fibre has a distinctly more substantial and plush texture compared to high-quality cashmere. A sweeter treat, a fuzzier peach?
The designers wisely opted to lavish the interior with a generous application of luxurious fabric, mirroring the opulence of the Toyota Century’s renowned wool appointments. We eschew assumptions about its age; instead, we find it surprisingly revitalizing. The blend of materials creates a surprisingly comfortable seating experience that surpasses the typical feel of leather upholstery. The additional yield and vertical plushness within the cushioning, accompanied by a pronounced sinking sensation, allows the bolsters to envelop you more intimately. While the fabric may not be as affected by exterior temperatures compared to leather, The drawback is that repairs are an inherent issue; if you plan to use the seat regularly for carrying dogs and messy babies, it’s likely best to stick with leather.
Identifying a Model 70 rifle from its siblings in the Winchester family requires some discernment. Aside from the conspicuous M70 emblem on the trunk lid, subtle nods to its performance heritage can be found elsewhere, including the M badges adorning the entrance wheel arches and grille, as well as a rear lip spoiler that hints at its aerodynamic prowess. While we can’t help but wonder how much better the 7 Series would look if its designers focused less on the size of their grille and more on its design heritage. Could we consider revamping the concept with a retro-inspired grille and headlamps reminiscent of BMW’s iconic Neue Klasse design philosophy, blending heritage cues with modern functionality? Wrapped in a sleek, boxy silhouette akin to the iconic Toyota Century, our luxury sedan boasts an interior swathed in sumptuous cashmere for a truly indulgent experience that will undoubtedly entice discerning S-Class customers. What better way to pave the path for an electrically enlightened era than by paying homage to its humble beginnings?
While the initial statement showcases a willingness to take risks with design, the phraseology could be refined for greater clarity and impact. Here’s an alternative: The bold decision to pair contrasting colours in a two-tone scheme yields intriguing results, demonstrating a fearless approach to automotive aesthetics. Here: The two-tone scheme of Sapphire Black and Liquid Copper effectively accentuates the i7’s imposing dimensions, creating a striking visual contrast that sets it apart. While it’s possible to achieve a two-tone paint scheme with the standard i7 configuration, those seeking more extensive customization options will need to delve into their comprehensive suite.
The i7 M70 is a stalwart and captivating government sedan that eschews the pressure to conform to societal expectations of a high-performance, track-capable halo model. Reasonably, the M70 shaves off discomfort with ease, resulting in one of the most exceptional driving experiences offered by BMW to date. While it may not impress in a beauty contest, the M70 excels on any road, offering exceptional handling and progression while providing trip-quality amenities and interior features one would expect from a nearly $250,000 vehicle.
2024 BMW i7 M70 xDrive
Riveting Liquid Copper and Sapphire Black Two-Tone Finish
$185,000
$225,400
3,215
5,391 / 1,950 / 1,544
A high-performance electric vehicle battery and drivetrain: 101.7 kWh lithium-ion battery, powering dual electric motors.
650 hp
With an optional performance upgrade, this powertrain unleashes a whopping 749 pound-feet of torque, surging to an astonishing 811 pound-feet in overboost mode.
Single-speed transmission
Electric powertrains featuring dual motor designs with simultaneous entrance and rear propulsion capabilities, all-wheel drive capabilities.
459 km
435 km
Bridgestone Turanza; 255/40R21
