The reveal of the updated 2020 BMW 7-Series wasn't supposed to take place until next week, but a series of leaks from several countries, including BMW's own configurator site in Germany, have effectively let the fat cat flagship out of the bag.

The 2020 refresh will be the first major update for the current BMW 7-Series since its debut for the 2016 model year, and let us assure you that once it goes on sale, you'll never confuse it for the pre-facelift version of the current 7-Series. The kidney grille has grown, if not entirely doubled in size, but the headlights have kept their slim proportions, making it look like the 7-Series is wearing a pair of sunglasses. The proportions of the new grille follow the design direction set by the new X7 SUV, so we shouldn't be too surprised by its new visage, or that of a string of recent concept cars that have featured even larger kidney grilles. It's also worth noting that some of the new sevens will feature a bronze finish on the brightwork instead of chrome.

Another element that we were half-expecting are the larger air intakes at the far ends of the front fascia -- these have been growing in size as well on recent BMW production models and concept cars. In fact, there will be two versions of those inlets, with one of them sporting vertical fins within the inlets as you can see in the gallery above.

The updated 7-Series is expected to be unveiled later in January 2019. BMW

Out back, the visual changes again depend on which model you choose. The V12-engined M760i xDrive will feature large tailpipe surrounds, with the rear bumper effectively creating a picture frame for the tailpipes. More modestly engined flavors (one shown in the gallery above with a trailer hitch, of all things) will wear a mildly redesigned rear fascia -- the most significant change is the new shape of the taillights, which will now feature flatter bottom edges.

The revised engine lineup will see an updated version of the 4.4-liter V8 that made its debut in the M850i, where it produces 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. We might also see a new twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six pumping out 335 hp. When it comes to electrified versions, a 745e plug-in hybrid is expected to replace the current 740e model. This new 745e is expected to pair a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor producing a combined 382 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. (Take these numbers with a grain of salt, as they're unconfirmed for now).

We'll see the updated 7-Series next week, but not at the Detroit auto show since BMW won't be there this year. But it will debut somewhere.

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