But BMW still had a performance model planned.
Last month, a rumor emerged suggesting BMW was working on a high-performance M7 model based on the new 7 Series that would utilize the same plug-in hybrid V8 setup at the XM Concept producing 750 horsepower and 737 lb-ft of torque. While BMW enthusiasts have been craving an M7 for years, we have some bad news.
Speaking with BMW executives at a closed-door reveal of the new i7, 7 Series and X7, CarBuzz learned that a high-powered M model would arrive after the 7er. But it won’t be an M7, as “this would dilute the M brand,” a product specialist told us. Instead, BMW will build an M Performance model (or possibly two).
BMW will reportedly release two versions of the all-electric i7, including an xDrive 60 model and a performance variant called the M70.
So far, BMW’s most powerful electric model is the iX M60 with 610 horsepower and 811 lb-ft of torque during launch control. The M70 would reportedly improve on this figure with around 700 hp, getting close to the originally rumored PHEV M7. As for the lesser i7 xDrive 60 model, it will likely produce around 540 hp from two electric motors, powered by a 111.5 kWh battery pack. We wouldn’t be surprised if the gas-powered 2023 BMW 7 Series gets its own performance variance, possibly called the M60, but BMW only hinted about about the all-electric 2023 BMW i7.
BMW
BMW
Fortunately, there are only a few more days before the next-generation 7 Series makes its official debut. BMW will show off the gas-powered 7 Series and its electric i7 counterpart on April 20 during a digital world premiere. We know the car will arrive sporting a massive kidney grille with light-up accents, a new split headlight design similar to the refreshed X7, and a panoramic glass roof with integrated LED lights. Optionally, customers will be able to get an 8K resolution rear theater screen measuring 31 inches, making the back seat a special place to sit.
We look forward to seeing the 2023 7 Series, and possibly the i7 M70, later this month.
BMW
BMW