Shortly after BMW Philippines‘ launch of the X1 a couple of weeks ago, SMC Asia Car Distributors Corporation’s (official importer and distributor of the brand) momentum swings to the premium side of the market with the introduction of the all-new G70 7-Series, both in its petrol and electric forms—also marking the first all-electric full-size luxury sedan to arrive in the country.

Of course, who could forget about its polarizing face with its distinct front fascia made up of split headlights flanking a large grille? Thankfully, it’s more subdued as you go around to the back, with the flush door handles, the clean body lines, and the slim LED taillights.

To differentiate between the 735i and the i7, the latter has subtle blue accents found on the lower half of the body, Swarovski crystal upper DRLs, an illuminated grille, and 21-inch wheels (instead of 19 inches on the former).

There are six colors available: Mineral White, Black Sapphire, Sophisto Gray, Sparkling Copper Gray, Space Silver, and Oxide Gray.

The car now features the BMW Curved Display with Operating System 8 displayed on a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen. The dashboard is decorated with open-pore, Flake Oak Gray wood trim with crystal and stainless steel accents dotting the cabin.

Integrated within the dashboard is the BMW Interaction Bar, where most of the dashboard features backlit, touch-sensitive panels allowing one to adjust features such as climate control, hazard lights, and the glove box.

The 735i comes with Veganza upholstery leather, while the i7 receives Merino leather upholstery available in four colors: Amarone, Tartufo, Mocha, and Black. All seats are heated and ventilated, while the rear seats come with a massaging function including seat adjustment functions.

Other niceties include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a wireless charger, the BMW Intelligent Voice Assistant that allows you to do things like open the doors with your voice, four-zone climate control, and a fixed panoramic glass roof with electric roller shades, all controllable from the dual 5.5-inch touchscreens found in the door cards. And to top it off, both come with a Bowers & Wilkins sound system.

As for the powertrain, the i7 xDrive60 comes with the fifth-generation BMW Drive tech, featuring two electric motors. The EV has a total system output of 400kW (544hp) and 750Nm. It has a 101.7kWh battery that allows for a range of up to 625km.

Meanwhile, the 735i Pure Excellence finally features a 3.0-liter, turbocharged in-line-six gasoline engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Power is rated at 286hp and 425Nm.

Both vehicles feature adaptive air suspension, and there is a host of safety systems present, with cruise control with braking, crash sensor, active protection, and active guard. The i7 has the Driving Assistant Professional system, which adds advanced driver aids like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and 360° camera.

The new BMW i7 xDrive60 Pure Excellence will be priced at P10.39 million, and comes with a wall box charger that will be installed in the customer’s home. Also standard are a five-year BMW factory warranty, an eight-year warranty for the battery, and a six-year BMW Service Inclusive warranty. It is only available at authorized “i” dealers, which are RSA Motors Libis and RSA Motors Greenhills.

Finally, the 735i Pure Excellence will cost P8.99 million, and will have a five-year comprehensive warranty. It is available at all BMW dealerships nationwide.