Fortunately, the Munich-based auto marque decided to keep it away from the Neue Klasse design language so far, which is why it looks evolutionary. And that’s definitely great news for those who do not fancy the Neue Klasse attire. And for what it’s worth, the next-generation X7 flagship SUV, which is expected to launch for the 2028 model year in the States, will also look like an evolution of the outgoing one.
Mind you, that is until you open the door, because both models feature the same interior. And as you likely know, the latest BMW 7 Series, or the LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) as the company calls it, benefits from the Panoramic iDrive. This is the pillar-to-pillar display at the bottom of the windshield. It’s joined by a 17.9-inch free-floating central display, a quirky-looking steering wheel, and a few other revisions that will probably not age that well.
To absolutely no one’s surprise, there will be no M7, as it is the new M760 xDrive that sits at the very top of the family. Unveiled earlier this month, it brings the V8 back to the brand’s flagship sedan. The automaker chose to keep the full specs close to its chest for now, but it did announce that the 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged mill produces around 570 horsepower. That’s a bit more than the old 760i, which had 563 horsepower available via the right pedal.
Photo: SH Proshots
However, if you want an even punchier new BMW 7 Series and don’t fancy turning to the tuning world, then you will have to wait for Alpina to present its new take on the latest 7er. The model was recently spied testing in a premiere, and rumor has it that it is based on the M760 xDrive. This means that it will utilize the same engine, albeit with more output and torque.
The model will also be a lot faster than the standard one, and in plain Alpina fashion, it will benefit from a lot more goodies besides the upgraded powertrain that we do not know much about so far. Expect the usual chassis modifications, which will find the sweet spot between fast cornering and comfortable everyday driving, as well as probably uprated brakes to keep the extra oomph in check.
Spied in the open at the BMW M Test Center close to the Nurburgring in Germany, this new Alpina 7 was fully wrapped in camouflage. However, we can tell quite easily that it features an entirely new bumper at the front, as well as a new kidney grille. The side skirts are part of the Alpina makeover from what we can tell, and so is the rear bumper.
Other highlights will include the dedicated quad exhaust pipes, and the familiar Alpina wheels, with their multi-spoke design. Thus, we would not bet on the alloys equipping this prototype making their way to the production model. The famous blue and green colors will also be a thing, and we also expect some changes on the inside, likely comprising the Panoramic iDrive, the infotainment system, steering wheel, gear selector, and seats.
Photo: SH Proshots
It is likely that Alpina will top off the upcoming 7er with dedicated upholstery and trim, and the model will also be decorated with the usual logos inside and out. Yellow daytime running lights also seem to be on deck, and between us, we cannot wait for the wraps to be removed in order to see this glorious sedan with its typical Alpina touches.
We do not yet know what it will be called, whether it will go by the Alpina 7 Series name, the Alpina 7, or the Alpina B7, just like its predecessor, but regardless of the name, it will be one extremely exciting sedan that will offer perfect balance between sporty and comfortable driving, not to mention great straight-line performance due to its extra oomph, exclusive colors on the outside, dedicated trim and upholstery in the cabin, and the famous Alpina wheels.
The model will boast its distinctive character, and will likely attract enthusiasts of all ages, including petrolheads who would not normally get a BMW 7 Series. And to no one’s surprise, it will sit at the very top of the latest 7er family in all markets, including the United States of America, where it might arrive for the 2028 model year. That’s what we believe anyway, and you shouldn’t quote us on that for obvious reasons.
Now, are you excited about the arrival of the all-new Alpina 7? Does this model look like your next go-to ride? What about a few years from now when you come across that perfectly-specified example on the used car market? Tell us all about it in the comments box below.
