Nearly all modern cars, trucks, and SUVs are available in various trim levels, offering buyers different features and pricing that can please both frugal shoppers and those with big budgets. However, does the high cost of a model’s trop trim justify its price? That’s a question certainly worth considering for the 2024 BMW i7 and its range-topping M70 trim level, which carries an eye-watering MSRP of nearly $170,000.

All trims available for the 2024 BMW i7

The i7 serves as BMW‘s new EV flagship sedan and resides within the pricey and limited full-size electric sedan segment.

The i7 was introduced for the 2023 model year, and its lineup expands significantly for 2024 with the addition of two new models joining the previously exclusive xDrive60 trim. The new eDrive50 serves as the base model and comes with rear-wheel drive and a single electric motor developing 449 horsepower and 549 lb-ft of torque. BMW claims the new eDrive50 will scoot from 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds and offers a driving range between 301-321 miles on a single charge.

The returning xDrive60 trim now serves as the midrange model with dual electric motors developing 536 hp, 87 more than the eDrive50, with the same torque figure. The all-wheel drive only model will dash from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds and return 298 to 317 miles of range, according to BMW.

However, in typical BMW fashion, seemingly every model must have an M variant, and the i7 can now be added to the list. The new-for-2024 M70 develops 650 hp and a massive 749 lb-ft of torque (up to 811 lb-ft with a boost feature engaged) from its dual electric motors, with BMW claiming a 0-60 mph time of just 3.5 seconds. The M70’s range is expectedly lower than that of its less-powerful stablemates, but BMW claims it will still return 274-291 miles on a single charge.

The i7 commands a six-figure price no matter the trim, but the variance between the three models is significant. The eDrive50 starts at $106,695 MSRP, the xDrive60 rings in at $125,195, and the M70 carries an elites-only sticker of $169,495, a full $62,800 more than the base model.

What does the i7 M70 offer for the increased price?

In addition to delivering 200 more horsepower than the standard i7, the M70 has plenty of tuning to take advantage of its added grunt. It’s fitted with an adaptive suspension, electronically controlled dampers, M-tuned air springs, an automatic self-leveling suspension, rear-wheel steering, upgraded brakes, and active roll stabilization. Exterior upgrades include 21-inch wheels, side skirts, a rear diffuser, and unique exterior paints, including two-tone combinations.

The M70 receives BMW’s latest operating system and a new “QuickSelect” feature for easily accessing common inputs. It also boasts a new Max Range drive mode, which limits speeds to 56 mph and shuts off energy-sapping features like climate control and heated/ventilated functionality for its seats.

Otherwise, the M70 shares most of the feature list of the xDrive60, which is to say, it’s rich with luxurious appointments and amenities.

Is the M70 trim worth the added price?

The 2024 BMW i7 M70’s pricing premium appears to only be worth swallowing for those who put an ultimate premium on exclusivity and performance. And those, of course, with fat wallets.

The xDrive60 model gets much of the same luxe amenities, and the nearly $45,000 saved by choosing this model over the M70 can be used to upgrade the midrange model with a bevy of optional packages offered for the i7 with plenty of dough left over.

Sure, the xDrive60 doesn’t have the same sporting credentials as the M70, but its 536 horsepower is hardly a pedestrian power figure. To boot, the i7 weighs about 3.5 tons, and it’s a full-sized luxury sedan, so it’s not exactly a corner carver by nature.

The i7’s range doesn’t suffer significantly in its M70 guise, but additional electrons are always appreciated on a road trip, and the top model returns the least amount of miles per charge.

Car and Driver recommends the midrange model over the M70: “Unless you’re expecting to be challenged at every stop light for an impromptu drag race.”

2024 BMW i7 performance EV alternatives

The BMW i7 isn’t the only option for those seeking a big, bold, and luxurious all-electric sedan.

The introduction of the i7 nearly coincides with the launch of the Mercedes-Benz EQS. The EQS, like the i7, is available with three powertrain options, including the M70-rivaling AMG EQS Sedan delivering 649 horsepower. The AMG EQS is available in three trim packages ranging from $148,700 to $155,545. The standard model with 329 to 516 hp commands $105,550 to $127,100.

The Lucid Air is another option from the newcomer to the luxury all-electric fray. The Air has an even wider pricing range (for 2023 models) than the i7. The base Air starts at $78,900, with the range-topping Grand Touring Performance commanding $180,650.

Meanwhile, the Tesla Model S isn’t as spacious or luxurious as the other models, but even the 1,020-horsepower Plaid version rings in at $110,130.

The Porsche Taycan Turbo S is another alternative, with prices ranging from $88,150 to $188,850 for the Turbo S model.