BMW X7 Review: Luxury and Space in a Bold Package

Are you in the market for a premium full-size SUV that combines luxury, space, and performance? The BMW X7 might be the vehicle you’re looking for. This comprehensive review will cover everything you need to know about BMW’s largest SUV, from its design and interior to performance, features, pricing, and how it stacks up against the competition.

The BMW X7 is a three-row luxury SUV that offers a perfect blend of comfort, performance, and practicality. Introduced in 2019, the X7 is BMW’s flagship SUV, designed to cater to families or individuals who desire a spacious and opulent vehicle without compromising on driving dynamics.

The BMW X7 is a luxury SUV that offers a unique blend of style, comfort, and performance. This review will cover its key features, including exterior design, interior amenities, engine options, safety tech, and trim levels. We’ll also compare it to rival models and highlight its strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Exterior

The BMW X7 boasts a commanding presence on the road, with its large kidney grille, sleek headlights, and muscular body lines. While the design might be polarizing for some, it undoubtedly makes a bold statement and exudes a sense of luxury and sophistication.

At 203.3 inches long, 78.7 inches wide, and 71.1 inches tall, the X7 is a true full-size SUV, providing ample interior space for passengers and cargo. It’s slightly larger than its closest competitors, like the Mercedes-Benz GLS and the Audi Q7.

The X7 is available in a variety of exterior colors, including sophisticated shades like Alpine White, Black Sapphire Metallic, and Tanzanite Blue II Metallic. Buyers can also choose from several wheel designs, ranging from 20 to 22 inches in size, to further enhance the vehicle’s bold appearance.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the BMW X7, and you’ll be greeted by a luxurious and well-appointed cabin. The interior is adorned with high-quality materials, such as leather upholstery, wood trim, and aluminum accents, creating an atmosphere of refinement and sophistication.

The X7 offers three rows of seating, with the option to configure it as a six- or seven-seater. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, with ample legroom and headroom for taller occupants. The second-row seats can be configured as a bench or individual captain’s chairs, depending on your preference.

While the third row is best suited for children or shorter adults, it’s still a welcome addition for those who need occasional extra seating capacity. Access to the third row is made easier thanks to the X7’s generous door openings and sliding second-row seats.

The X7’s infotainment system is powered by BMW’s iDrive interface, which is intuitive and easy to use. The system includes a large touchscreen display, voice control, and a host of connectivity features, such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Comfort and convenience features abound in the X7, including a panoramic sunroof, quad-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and an optional rear-seat entertainment system. For added luxury, buyers can opt for the available massage function for the front seats, as well as the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound audio system.

Performance and Driving Experience

Under the hood, the BMW X7 offers a choice of two powerful engines: a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six (xDrive40i) or a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 (M50i).

The xDrive40i produces 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, propelling the X7 from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The M50i, on the other hand, cranks out an impressive 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph time of just 4.5 seconds.

Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, ensuring optimal traction and control in various driving conditions.

Despite its size, the X7 handles remarkably well, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and precise steering. The ride quality is smooth and comfortable, even over rough surfaces, thanks to the standard air suspension system.

For those seeking a more dynamic driving experience, the X7 M50i trim level comes with an adaptive M suspension, which enhances the vehicle’s handling and responsiveness.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the X7 xDrive40i achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, while the M50i returns 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. These figures are respectable for a full-size luxury SUV but may not be the best in its class.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

The BMW X7 prioritizes safety with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies and safety features. Standard equipment includes forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning.

Additionally, the X7 offers optional features like adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, a surround-view camera system, and a heads-up display, further enhancing safety and convenience.

In crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the X7 earned a five-star overall safety rating, providing peace of mind for occupants.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The BMW X7 is available in two main trim levels: the xDrive40i and the M50i.

The xDrive40i starts at around $74,900 MSRP and comes well-equipped with features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment display, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate.

The M50i trim, with its more powerful V8 engine and additional performance enhancements, starts at approximately $99,800 MSRP.

Both trims can be further customized with additional packages and standalone options, such as the Luxury Seating Package, which adds ventilated front seats and massage functions, or the Driving Assistance Professional Package, which includes advanced driver-assistance systems like traffic jam assist and automatic lane change.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Spacious and luxurious interior with high-quality materials
• Powerful and responsive engine options
• Composed handling and smooth ride quality
• Advanced safety and driver-assistance features
• Impressive towing capacity (up to 7,500 lbs)
• Available third-row seating for up to seven passengers

Cons:

• Higher starting price compared to some rivals
• Polarizing exterior design may not appeal to everyone
• Third-row seating can be cramped for taller adults
• Fuel efficiency could be better, especially with the V8 engine
• Some controls and features can be complex or overwhelming

Comparison with Competitors

When it comes to full-size luxury SUVs, the BMW X7 faces stiff competition from vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz GLS, the Audi Q7, the Lincoln Navigator, and the Cadillac Escalade.

Compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLS, the X7 offers a more engaging driving experience and a slightly more spacious third-row. However, the GLS boasts a more refined interior and a smoother ride quality.

The Audi Q7 is a formidable competitor, with a well-appointed interior, impressive performance, and better fuel efficiency than the X7. However, it lacks the available third-row seating and the overall size and presence of the X7.

The Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade are more focused on luxury and comfort than performance, offering more spacious interiors and a smoother ride. However, they may not provide the same level of driving dynamics as the X7.

Ultimately, the choice between these vehicles will depend on individual preferences and priorities, such as performance, interior space, luxury features, and brand loyalty.

Ownership Experience and Reliability

BMW vehicles are generally known for their premium quality, performance, and driving dynamics. However, long-term ownership costs and reliability can be a concern for some buyers.

According to industry sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, BMW’s reliability ratings have been average or slightly below average in recent years. While the X7 is still a relatively new model, it’s essential to keep in mind that luxury vehicles often come with higher maintenance and repair costs compared to mainstream models.

That said, BMW offers a comprehensive warranty package, including a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 3-year/36,000-mile maintenance program, which can help alleviate some ownership concerns. Additionally, BMW provides a wide network of dealerships and certified service centers, ensuring that maintenance and repairs can be performed by trained professionals using genuine parts.

Verdict and Final Thoughts

The BMW X7 is a true flagship luxury SUV that delivers on space, comfort, and performance. Its bold design, premium interior, and powerful engine options make it a standout choice for those seeking a full-size SUV that combines luxury and capability.

While it may not be the most fuel-efficient option in its class, and its polarizing design might not appeal to everyone, the X7 excels in areas that matter most to its target audience. Its spacious three-row seating, abundant cargo space, and cutting-edge technology features make it a practical choice for families or individuals who value both utility and indulgence.

The X7’s impressive performance, particularly with the M50i trim’s potent V8 engine, ensures that it maintains BMW’s reputation for driving dynamics, even in a vehicle of this size. The smooth ride quality and composed handling further contribute to an enjoyable driving experience, whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on a long road trip.

While the X7 may not be the most affordable option in its segment, its premium features and amenities justify its higher price point for those seeking the ultimate in luxury and sophistication. For buyers who prioritize brand cachet, performance, and a blend of luxury and practicality, the BMW X7 is a compelling choice in the full-size SUV market.

Let’s Finish

In conclusion, the BMW X7 is a remarkable achievement in the realm of full-size luxury SUVs. With its striking design, opulent interior, powerful engine options, and advanced technology features, it offers a compelling package for discerning buyers seeking the ultimate in space, comfort, and performance.

While it may not be the perfect choice for everyone, the X7 undoubtedly excels in delivering a premium driving experience, coupled with the practicality and versatility expected from a three-row SUV. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious family hauler or a capable and stylish vehicle for your daily commute, the BMW X7 is worthy of consideration.