2019 BMW 7 Series Facelift: Complete Review & Key Upgrades

The 2019 BMW 7 Series facelift represents a significant evolution in the flagship sedan category, blending striking visual updates with substantial improvements in comfort, power, and driving engagement. This mid-cycle refresh addresses key areas like noise insulation, suspension tuning, and engine performance, positioning the vehicle as a versatile choice for both chauffeurs and enthusiasts.

Redesigned Exterior: Bold Presence Redefined

The most noticeable change in the 2019 model is its front fascia, dominated by an enlarged kidney grille that measures approximately 40 percent larger than its predecessor. This design choice not only amplifies the car’s commanding road presence but also improves aerodynamics through integrated air channels. Slimmer LED headlights frame the grille, creating a sharper, more aggressive look, while the front bumper features a wide air intake for enhanced cooling and style.

Along the sides, subtle enhancements include revised side skirts and aerodynamic air outlets that direct airflow around the wheels, contributing to better stability at high speeds. The rear end adopts a modern LED light bar spanning the width of the tailgate, connecting the taillights for a seamless, high-tech appearance. These updates result in a more cohesive and contemporary silhouette without altering the overall proportions of this long-wheelbase luxury liner.

• Grille enlargement: 40% bigger for iconic BMW styling and better airflow.
• Headlights: Slimmer LEDs with adaptive functions.
• Rear lighting: Full-width LED bar for modern appeal.

Luxurious Interior: Tech and Comfort Upgraded

Inside, the cabin exudes premium quality with high-grade leathers, new wood trims, and lacquered finishes that elevate the ambiance. The front seats benefit from a redesigned steering wheel optimized for semi-autonomous driving modes, featuring intuitive button layouts. BMW’s iDrive 7.0 infotainment system takes center stage, with a responsive touchscreen and gesture controls that make navigation more user-friendly than ever.

Rear passengers enjoy exceptional space, especially in long-wheelbase variants like the 750Li xDrive. New 10-inch full-HD touchscreens provide individual entertainment, while an updated control panel allows adjustments to climate, seats, and massage functions. Double-glazed glass across all windows and additional soundproofing in door pillars and wheel arches create an exceptionally quiet environment, often described as “earmuff-like” isolation from road and wind noise.

Powertrain Options: Performance Meets Efficiency

BMW offers a diverse lineup of engines for the 2019 7 Series, catering to various preferences. The standout 750i xDrive packs a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 delivering 530 horsepower, achieving 0-62 mph in just 4.0 seconds with a refined V8 rumble subdued in the cabin. Inline-six petrol and diesel variants provide balanced power, while plug-in hybrids offer up to 14 miles of electric-only range for urban efficiency.

All models pair with an 8-speed automatic transmission and optional xDrive all-wheel drive, ensuring smooth shifts and confident traction. Fuel economy varies, with diesels and hybrids shining in efficiency, though high-performance petrol models prioritize grunt over parsimony.

• 750i xDrive: 530 hp V8, 4.0s 0-62 mph.
• Plug-in Hybrid: 14 miles EV range.
• Diesels: Strong torque, low emissions.

Dynamic Driving: Surprisingly Agile for Its Size

Despite its 5.26-meter length and substantial weight, the facelifted 7 Series handles with remarkable poise. The adaptive air suspension features Comfort and Comfort Plus modes, with the latter providing a plush glide over imperfections, though it can feel floaty at speed. Switching to Comfort adds just enough firmness for composed cornering.

Steering is more direct with enhanced road feedback, allowing the car to dart into bends with minimal body roll. On twisty roads, it belies its mass, feeling lighter and more connected than rivals like the Mercedes S-Class. Sport mode sharpens responses further, though the emphasis remains on serene, long-distance cruising.

Advanced Safety and Assistance Systems

The 2019 model integrates sophisticated driver aids as standard or via packages. The Driving Assistance Plus package includes adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane-keeping assist, front cross-traffic alert, and Traffic Jam Assistant for semi-autonomous highway driving. The Autobahn package adds variable-ratio steering and road-scanning dampers for optimized handling.

These features, combined with exceptional build quality, earn high marks for safety and reliability in real-world scenarios.

Rivals Comparison: How It Stacks Up

In the luxury sedan arena, the 7 Series competes with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, and Lexus LS. Here’s a quick overview:

The BMW distinguishes itself with superior driving dynamics and value in performance trims.

Ownership Considerations: Costs and Practicality

While running costs for petrol V8s are higher due to fuel thirst, efficient diesels and hybrids mitigate this. Maintenance aligns with BMW standards, and resale holds strong in the luxury segment. Abundant standard equipment reduces the need for expensive options, though fully loaded models command premium prices around $100,000+.

FAQs

What makes the 2019 7 Series facelift special?
The larger grille, quieter cabin, improved ride, and powerful engines set it apart.

Is it worth waiting for over the pre-facelift?
Yes, refinements in comfort, noise reduction, and dynamics justify the upgrade.

Best engine choice?
750i xDrive for thrill; hybrids for efficiency.

How does rear space compare?
Exceptional legroom and features make it chauffeur-friendly.

Any major drawbacks?
High fuel use in petrol models; polarizing grille design.

Final Verdict: A Flagship Worthy of Acclaim

The 2019 BMW 7 Series facelift excels across luxury, technology, and performance metrics, offering a compelling package for executives and drivers alike. Its ability to balance opulent comfort with engaging handling cements its status as a segment leader.