BMW 7-series facelift to get sharper styling

BMW is all set to unveil an updated 7-series range next year. Sources tell us that the BMW 7-series facelift will get styling influence from its upcoming X7 flagship SUV. Due in 2019, the updated luxury sedan's new nostrils will be accompanied by sharper exterior styling that includes slimmer headlights and tail-lights.

This more modern look will mirror changes that will be implemented beneath the skin, the most significant of which will come via the introduction of a more potent plug-in hybrid variant.

The flagship range’s current electrified model, the 740e iPerformance, will give way to the 745e iPerformance, with a hybrid electric powertrain offering more punch and increased range.

Output for the 740e peaks at 327hp and 500Nm of torque, but the use of a more advanced motor – powered by batteries of a higher energy density – is expected to provide more power to the turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine, edging towards a combined output of 405.5hp.

The new electrified technology will also provide the 745e with a greater electric-only range. The 740e is good for 47km, so it’s likely that the new hybrid will push that into the low 50s.

Alongside the enhanced plug-in variant, the rest of the 7-series range will also receive improvements. Expect more power and improved fuel economy for the engines, which include six-cylinder petrols and a four-cylinder diesel, as well the V8 750i and the V12 M760Li xDrive.

The X7, a future rival to the Range Rover, will rub shoulders with the 7-series at the top of BMW’s range. The design link is likely a tactic to create familiarity between the two flagship models.  

Both cars are pitched directly at high-flying luxury car buyers, of which a large portion comes from China. Buyers there typically prefer more aggressive car designs, so this new look is possibly also evidence of a design shift to cater to tastes in the world’s biggest new car market.

Aside from the altered front end, the updated model will feature more discreet alterations, including a new front bumper design and slimmer lights at the back.

Inside, the existing cabin architecture will be updated with BMW’s latest infotainment technology. Major changes are not expected, although a digital instrument cluster is likely and should significantly enhance user experience, while also helping the 7-series keep up with tech offered by rivals such as Audi, which is all set to bring in the A8 L in India later this year.