The BMW 7-series has been spied testing in preparation for a mid-life facelift that’s expected to go on sale in September. A mild styling tweak will nudge the BMW 7-series in the direction of the latest 5 and 3-series, and engines will be brought in line with those new models.
See spy pictures of the next-generation BMW 7-series
A 7-series test mule was spied wearing a light disguise last month, but the latest spy pictures show a wearing a revised front end. The most notable change is the front bumper design, which brings the 7-series into line with the styling of the latest 3-series.
The next-generation 7-series will get a new V8 petrol engine with 199g/km CO2 emissions. BMW engineering sources have revealed to Autocar that the new V8 petrol engine will feature a cylinder dimming system to help improve economy and reduce CO2 emissions.
Our sources also revealed other powertrain additions to the revised 7-series range will be the new M-developed tri-turbo 376bhp, 545lb ft 3.0-litre straight-six diesel engine, although the 7-series will not get any M chassis or styling tweaks to go with it. An entry-level diesel with 159g/km CO2 emissions will also be offered.
The petrol-electric hybrid system from the 3-series and 5-series will also be offered in the 7-series, sources have revealed. This mates a 296bhp twin-turbocharged straight-six petrol engine with a 54bhp electric motor and eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Chief among the changes will be new LED ‘angel eye’ headlights and the new lower part of the front grille. At the rear, a new bumper features.
The 7-series’ chassis is also believed to have undergone an overhaul, according to our sources. Extensive damper tuning is understood to have been undertaken, to boost improve ride comfort and offer a more engaging drive when a revised ‘Sport’ mode is activated.
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