The BMW X7 may have been fashionably late to the full-size luxury SUV party—it first went on sale in 2019—but it didnt waste any time snagging a spot on the VIP list. While its lavish interior, standard air-ride suspension, and list of standard equipment expertly fulfill their assignments, its the sharp handling and roster of robust engine choices that elevate the X7 above its competition. The base engine is a sweetly smooth 375-hp turbocharged straight-six, but a 523-hp turbocharged V8 is on deck for buyers seeking more urgency; big spenders with a need for speed can opt for the exclusive Alpina XB7 trim and its 630-hp twin-turbo V-8. All-wheel drive is standard across the lineup. While power is clearly not in short supply, cargo space and third-row legroom are, as the X7 trails competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Jeep Grand Wagoneer in both. But thats of little concern from the first two rows, where the X7s smooth ride, top-tier materials, and tasteful design conspire to coddle the occupants on trips of any length.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The entry-level X7 xDrive40i is powered by a 375-hp turbocharged inline-six-cylinder, and the M60i has a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 that makes 523 horses. The Alpina XB7 has a specially tuned version of that V-8, which develops 630 horsepower. All three engines pair with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. Every X7 rides on an air suspension with adaptive dampers, and the chassis can be further enhanced with the available rear-axle steering and active anti-roll bars that reduce body roll in corners. Both features are standard on the M60i, which has a sportier suspension setup by default. Handling is surprisingly lithe for a large SUV and the X7s steering is accurate and nicely weighted. The smallest wheels on the X7 measure 21 inches in diameter, but BMW now also offers 23 inchers for the first time; on the big rollers, though, the X7s ride quality takes a hit.
0–60-MPH Times
The xDrive40i we tested scooted to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds; while no slouch, the V-8-powered M60i model did the same in just 3.8 seconds.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The xDrive40i model with the standard inline-six is comparatively efficient for the class, earning EPA ratings of 21 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. The M60is V-8 is understandably a bit thirstier, earning EPA ratings of 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. We were pleasantly surprised by the M60is 23 mpg figure on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the X7s dashboard is dominated by a massive digital display thats slightly curved. The panel boasts a 12.3-inch gauge cluster for the driver and a 14.9-inch touchscreen that the infotainment system operates through. Plenty of luxury features can be found inside as well, including heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and ambient interior lighting. However, we were irritated by how slowly the power-operated, second-row captains chair moved when trying to let people in and out of the third row. Likewise, the way-back seats arent especially roomy for adults during prolonged drives. Still, no one will complain about the X7s ample interior cubby storage. While we only managed to fit three carry-on suitcases behind the third row, we fit 33 total with all the back seats stowed.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The X7s iDrive infotainment system operates through a 14.9-inch touchscreen thats housed in the curved glass panel atop the dash. The system can also be operated by a large rotary knob on the center console as well as through gesture controls that are more gimmicky than useful. Along with a Wi-Fi hotspot (subscription required), every X7 is available with BMWs Digital Key which allows users to control vehicle functions remotely via a smartphone app. A more powerful Harman/Kardon stereo and wireless charging are optional features.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Every X7 has an assortment of standard driver-assistance technology in addition to several more advanced options. For more information about the X7s crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
- Standard lane-departure warning