BMW 7-Series Facelift: A Refined Look Hints at Future Design Language

Daily Car

·

22/01/2026

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BMW is preparing a mid-cycle refresh for its flagship 7-Series sedan, aiming to address some of the polarizing design elements of the current model. While the full "Neue Klasse" transformation is reserved for future generations, this update introduces subtle yet significant changes to the exterior, promising a cleaner and more assertive presence.

Key Takeaways

The 2027 BMW 7-Series will receive a mild facelift, not a complete redesign.
Kidney grilles are taller with horizontal slats, replacing the vertical ones.
Headlights are split, with slim LED daytime running lights positioned above smaller main headlamps.
Rear updates include new LED taillights and a revised bumper.

Front-End Evolution

Renderings based on spy shots suggest that the updated 7-Series will feature slightly taller kidney grilles. These will adopt a horizontal slat design, moving away from the vertical elements seen previously, contributing to a more streamlined and pointed front-end appearance. The edges of the grille are also expected to be sharpened, lending a more aggressive look.

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The lighting signature is also set for a notable change. The slim LED daytime running lights will be repositioned closer to the hood's shut line, featuring updated designs. Below these, the main headlamp clusters will be significantly downsized, appearing roughly half the size of the current model's units. A redesigned, more aggressive bumper is also anticipated.

Rear Design and Future Outlook

While the side profile of the 7-Series is expected to remain largely unchanged, the rear will see some revisions. These include new LED taillight designs and a revised bumper, which in some imagined renderings, incorporates contrasting black and silver elements for a sportier aesthetic.

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This facelift comes as the current 7-Series generation has faced criticism for its styling, particularly when compared to sleeker rivals from Audi and Mercedes-Benz. Although this refresh won't bring the full "Neue Klasse" treatment, which is earmarked for the next generation, these adjustments are expected to soften some of the more controversial lines and improve the car's overall visual appeal. The updates aim to bridge the gap until the next generation fully embraces BMW's future design direction.

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