BMW has teased the imminent arrival of its all-new i7 luxury model with a new set of images. The new model, which is expected to go on sale next year will be built on a new set of underpinnings that can accommodate three different powertrains; full electric, plug-in hybrid or pure internal combustion. 

Although the images give little away, it’s clear that the Bavarian brand’s passion for oversized radiator grilles is stronger than ever. In keeping with the recently-launched iX all-electric model, the i7’s front end is dominated by a huge illuminated kidney grille which is flanked on either sides with shallow LED strip headlights. As with the iX, the number plate mount is expected to sit within the frame of the grille. 

Inside, BMW has confirmed that the i7 will come with the brand’s vast 31-inch Theatre Screen system for rear seat passengers. The tech was unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas earlier this year and features 8K streaming capability. 

According to BMW, the screen transforms the rear seats into an exclusive, private cinema lounge. Up front, the i7 will feature the latest generation of BMW’s iDrive control system, along with curved infotainment screens borrowed from the iX. 

BMW has previously confirmed that the i7 will feature a fifth-generation eDrive battery and drive system, and cheekily claims that the newcomer will be the ‘first all-electric luxury sedan in the world’. While bosses are expected to confirm battery sizes and power outputs at the global reveal of the car next month, the i7 is likely to be offered with the same 105kWh battery pack fitted to the iX SUV. 

The brand has confirmed that the car will have an EPA driving range of 305 miles and a WLTP range of 360 miles. The EPA figure is a US standard and is often regarded as being more realistic in real-world driving. 

In terms of production and launch, BMW is expected to start production later this year. That means UK buyers could take delivery before the end of the year. Prices have yet to be announced, but we would predict these to start at around £85,000.

31-inch cinema display can stream 8K content. Which is probably better than your local mulitplex can manage