BMW is preparing a refreshed version of its flagship 7 Series, nearly four years after the debut of the seventh-generation model and its electric counterpart, the i7. While official teasers and spy shots have offered glimpses of the facelift, a new unofficial rendering by digital artist Nicolás Cavero (@futurecarsnow on Instagram) provides one of the clearest previews yet of the updated design.
The Iconic Grille Remains
Contrary to expectations set by BMW’s smaller grille designs on the iX3 and i3, the facelifted 7 Series retains its massive kidney grille. The recent official teaser confirms the grille’s size and fully illuminated design, signaling that the bold front-end styling will remain a signature feature.
Cavero’s rendering combines the new grille with reworked LED running lights and a more intricately angled bumper, inspired by BMW’s Neue Klasse electric vehicles. The main headlight units have been repositioned lower in the bumper and reduced in size, aligning with what has been seen in spy photos. Compared with the outgoing model, the refreshed 7 Series appears slightly cleaner while still embracing its most controversial design element.
Powertrain and Model Lineup
The facelifted lineup is expected to carry over the current powertrain options: the inline-six 740i, V8 760i, plug-in hybrid 750e, and electric i7. BMW is likely to drop the “i” from gas-powered models in line with its new naming strategy. Additionally, rumors suggest a range-topping V8-powered M760 could join the range, with one of the first Alpina derivatives also planned, following the tuner’s full integration into BMW.
Timing and Market Context
The updated 7 Series is set to debut at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show on April 24. Its arrival comes at an unusual time for full-size luxury sedans, with the Mercedes S-Class having recently received a major update, while the Audi A8 is expected to exit the market without an immediate successor.
BMW enthusiasts and industry observers can expect the full details of the facelifted 7 Series to be unveiled at the show, offering a modernized take on the brand’s flagship sedan while keeping its signature design cues intact.
