Are you in the market for a luxury electric sedan that offers both power and style? Look no further than the BMW i7 M70. In this in-depth review, we’ll dive into the details of this electric marvel and explore its performance, design, interior, and more.
BMW 7 Series M70
The BMW i7 M70 is making waves in the world of electric cars, drawing comparisons to the latest Apple iPhone Pro. It promises more performance and a sleeker design compared to the standard i7, but with a higher price tag. In this review, we’ll dissect the car’s key features and see if it lives up to the hype.
Performance Upgrades
Let’s start with what matters most – performance. Under the hood of the i7 M70, you’ll find a high-performance electric motor. However, upon opening the bonnet, you might be surprised to see a lot of plastic. The front axle houses a 258 horsepower electric motor, similar to the standard i7. But the rear axle is where the magic happens, with a more potent motor generating 489 horsepower.
When combined, these two motors deliver a staggering 660 horsepower, a substantial 116 horsepower boost over the standard i760. While it doesn’t match the power of an AMG EQS 53 or a Tesla Model S Plaid, it’s no slouch.
0 to 60 MPH Test
BMW claims the i7 M70 can reach 60 MPH in 3.7 seconds. But, how does it perform in reality? To find out, we put it to the test with specialized timing gear. The result? A lightning-quick 3.3 seconds. Impressive, but how does it compare to its rivals? The Mercedes EQS 53 did it in 3.16 seconds, while the Tesla Model S Plaid outshone them all at just 2.4 seconds.
Chassis and Handling
To handle the added performance, BMW equipped the i7 M70 with upgraded M Performance brakes. Several chassis enhancements enhance its handling, including retuned suspension with M Sport suspension. This means smaller air suspension chambers for a slightly stiffer and sportier ride. Dampers have been recalibrated for greater responsiveness and agility. Other changes include rear-wheel steering, extra bracing in the front, and active anti-roll bars to minimize body lean during turns.
On the Road Experience
So, how does it drive? For a large car, it handles corners quite well, with minimal body lean thanks to the active anti-roll system. It offers ample grip and traction from its four-wheel drive system. However, despite its performance, it falls short of being a true M performance car due to its weight. The power feels like an M car, but the handling and chassis upgrades don’t provide a significant leap beyond the standard i7.
Exterior Enhancements
The i7 M70 boasts exterior upgrades to accentuate its sporty demeanor. Notable changes include the black grille with a black surround, LED grille surrounds in the M Performance pack, a more aggressive front bumper, larger air breathers on the sides, and M badging throughout. The 21-inch M alloy wheels, gloss black brake calipers, black door handles, and M side skirts add to its athletic appearance. The rear features a sportier bumper with a diffuser, more M badging, and an optional spoiler with the M Performance pack.
Interior Luxury
Inside, the basic design closely resembles the standard i7, with a sleek dashboard featuring a glass effect. The M upgrades include a flat-bottomed M Sports steering wheel, Alcantara headlining, aluminum pedals, and illuminated M badges on the dash. The seats focus on comfort, and there’s an option for leather or a leather-wall combination. The M colors are present on dials and seatbelts, adding to the sporty atmosphere.
Spacious Backseat
The backseat offers plenty of room, both in terms of knee and headroom. The illuminated M seal plates are a subtle touch, and additional options like the carbon fiber trim can further differentiate the M70 version from the standard i7. However, the lack of a full vegan interior option is a notable downside.
Boot Space
The boot’s capacity in the i7 M70 is the same as the standard model at 500 liters, sufficient for most needs. Still, it falls short of the EQS 53’s larger boot. The Tesla Model S Plaid outshines them all with a boot capacity of 793 liters.
Five Annoying Things About the BMW i7 M70
- Weight: At 2.7 tons, the i7 M70 is heavier than its competitors, which may affect its agility.
- Lack of Vegan Interior: Unlike the standard i7, the M70 version doesn’t offer a full vegan interior, limiting options for environmentally conscious buyers.
- Price Tag: The i7 M70 starts at £61,000, and with optional features, it can quickly approach £188,000, making it quite expensive.
- Depreciation: Historically, large luxury BMWs don’t hold their value well, and electric cars tend to depreciate faster.
- Creeping Noise: Like many electric cars, the i7 M70 emits a noise when creeping along, which can be an annoyance in a vehicle of this class.
Daily Usability
When it comes to everyday use, the i7 M70 doesn’t disappoint. It offers a comfortable and relaxing driving experience. You can switch between driving modes to cater to your preferences, from regen braking to a more comfortable suspension setup.
Range and Efficiency
Despite its high performance, the i7 M70 doesn’t significantly affect its range. BMW claims a range between 300 and 340 miles on a full charge. In practice, it averages 2.5 miles per kilowatt-hour, resulting in a real-world range of about 250 miles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the BMW i7 M70 is an enticing choice for those seeking a high-performance luxury electric sedan. While it may not match the speed demons like the Tesla Model S Plaid, it offers a compelling blend of power and comfort. With its sleek design and numerous M enhancements, it’s a worthy contender in the luxury electric car market. If you’re looking for a blend of luxury and electrifying performance, the BMW i7 M70 should be on your shortlist.
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