2026 BMW 7 Series vs old model: Differences explained – Introduction

BMW has revealed the facelifted 7 Series, along with its electric counterpart, the i7. This mid-lifecycle update brings subtle changes to the exterior, but the bigger updates are inside, inspired by the brand’s latest Neue Klasse flair. There are also gains across powertrains, with improved outputs across the range. Here is a closer look at what is changed and how the updated BMW 7 Series compares with the outgoing model. 

Disclaimer: The image sliders below feature global-spec BMW i7 models.

2026 BMW 7 Series facelift vs old model: Exterior design

 

The facelifted 7 Series gets a much cleaner front end than the outgoing model. The biggest change is the updated illuminated kidney grille, which is now slimmer and more upright and it also gets a new horizontal light graphic. The headlights are new too, with a two-piece layout. The upper section is very slim and holds the daytime running lights, while the lower section is smaller than before and sits almost out of sight near the air curtains. The BMW badge on the bonnet is also new, larger and finished in matte. BMW says the radar, camera, sensors and washer nozzles are hidden inside the grille area, which helps keep the front uncluttered.

 

In profile, the facelift keeps the same clean and simple look. The door handles continue to be now flush with the body, which makes the surface look clean. The trim around the handles is finished in Satin Aluminium, or high-gloss black if the M Sport package is chosen, and the wheel design has been reworked. The B-pillar also has a visible embossed “7” when both doors on one side are opened. 

 

The rear gets new tail-lights, and this is one of the most obvious changes over the old model. They are slimmer, stretched further into the body and give the car a wider look. BMW has also used chrome detailing inside the lamps and smoked glass for a darker finish. As at the front, many of the technical bits such as the boot release, rear camera and washer nozzle are tucked away. The rear bumper also gets with a diffuser-like trim, giving it a more modern look.

2026 BMW 7 Series facelift vs old model: Interior and features

The facelifted 7 Series gets a 17.9-inch central touchscreen, a 14.6-inch front passenger display, and a projection across the full width of the windscreen’s base instead of a traditional driver’s display. The touchscreen runs BMW’s Operating System X and supports over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and improved voice control. The four-spoke steering wheel is also new and is inspired by classic BMW cars. The centre console has crystal-type controls for the engine start/ stop button, gear selector and volume control. There is also an illuminated cup holder and a smartphone tray with wireless charging.

 

The 7 Series comes with a Bowers and Wilkins Surround Sound System as standard, with up to 18 speakers. The optional Diamond Surround Sound System adds up to 36 speakers, 4D audio and Dolby Atmos. The carmaker has added a new lighting setup inside the car. There is a full-width ambient light strip across the cabin, lighting elements behind the front seats, illuminated rear-door speaker covers and extra reading lights in the back. The optional panoramic glass roof also gets LED lighting with a graphic pattern. As per BMW, the lighting changes with the selected driving mode. 

The facelift continues with a premium cabin, but it now offers more trim choices. Standard fitment includes fine wood trim with grey metallic highlights. Other options include open-pored wood and, for the first time, Alcantara trim. A carbon-styled trim is also available with the M Sport packages.

 

Standard seats come with electric adjustment, heating, massaging armrest heating, lumbar support and active ventilation. At the rear, BMW offers Executive Lounge Seating with a leg rest, heated centre armrest and a more relaxed seating position. The front passenger seat can move fully forward to create more room for the rear passenger behind it. The rear gets a major update too. The optional Theatre Screen is now a 31.3-inch 8K touchscreen and can be used for video calls, streaming and gaming. 

The rear doors also get updated screens, which let passengers move these units, change the viewing angle and control other functions. The facelift also brings new automatic doors with better-placed open and close buttons. BMW says they work with a touch of the flush-fitting handles and can even be operated through the My BMW app or voice commands. 

2026 BMW 7 Series facelift vs old model: Powertrains

7 Series petrol and diesel

*currently on-sale in India.

For this comparison, we have only looked at the pre-facelift 7 Series variants that are currently sold in India and matched them against the facelifted versions. Both the 740i xDrive petrol and 740d xDrive diesel continue with 3-litre inline-six mild-hybrid engines, an 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. The real changes are in output. The 740i now makes 400hp and 580Nm, which is up by 19hp and 60Nm over the outgoing car. The 740d also gets a slightly bump, going from 286hp to 313hp and from 650Nm to 670Nm.

i7 EV

For the electric i7, the biggest change is at the entry point. The old rear-wheel-drive 50 eDrive is gone, and BMW now offers a 50 xDrive with all-wheel drive instead. That variant also gets a bigger 112.4kWh battery, up from 101.7kWh, while power rises only slightly from 449hp to 455hp and torque goes up by 10Nm to 660Nm. The M70 xDrive also gets a similar battery upgrade. Power increases by 30hp, from 650hp to 680hp, while torque climbs from 1,015Nm to up to 1,100Nm.