FIRST DRIVE: 2019 G12 BMW 7 Series LCI in Portugal

The facelifted G11/G12 BMW 7 Series was just introduced in January this year, featuring a raft of “huge” updates in the design, equipment and powertrain department. Let’s just say, it has never been easier to spot an LCI model.

The front fascia gets a redesigned kidney grille that is now conjoined and 40% larger than before. Because of that, the front of the car is 50 mm taller at its foremost point, which helps give it a bit more road presence. The LED headlights are slimmer, and the bonnet features more prominent contour lines, a larger BMW badge and a revised lower apron.

Elsewhere, the Air Breathers are more upright, and the rear gets new tail lights, incorporating the carmaker’s L-shaped signature. The clusters are 35 mm slimmer than before, and there’s a full-width light strip below the chrome bar, which is linked to the daytime driving lights.

Inside, the 7 Series is also recipient of the BMW Live Cockpit Professional and Operating System 7.0 (with Intelligent Personal Assistant). Other additions include a new steering wheel lifted from the X7 and new interior trims.

For engines, there’s a range of petrol and diesel mills, as well as several plug-in hybrid variants. The more advanced 745Le gets a 3.0 litre turbocharged straight-six engine with 286 PS and 450 Nm that’s augmented by an electric motor making 113 PS and 265 Nm of torque. Combined, the system generates 394 PS and 600 Nm, sending it from zero to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds. It has a full electric range of 50 km.

So, what do you think? Would you choose the 7 Series PHEV over the W222 Mercedes-Benz S 560 e?

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