2023 BMW X7 Review, Pricing, and Specs

Overview

When it comes to moving an affluent family, there’s no better BMW than the X7, the brand’s luxury three-row SUV. While its cargo area and rear seats aren’t as roomy as rivals like the Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, the Bimmer boasts better handling as well as an impressive range of engines. They range from a 375-hp turbo six to a 523-hp twin-turbo V-8, with the latter making 630 horses on the top-of-the-line, maximum-performance Alpina XB7. All models have four-wheel drive and an adaptive air suspension system that promotes a cushiony ride. The 2023 X7’s interior is serene, but it’s also packed with luxury materials and modern technology like the dash’s giant curved glass screen. Those features, combined with the X7’s towing ability and a suite of standard active-safety technology, make the biggest BMW one of the best.

What’s new for 2023?

The 2023 X7 gets a mid-cycle refresh that includes a more expressive front end and a new dashboard design with a large digital screen and BMW’s latest infotainment system. The largest BMW SUV also has more standard features and new driver assistance technology. For the first time, BMW will also offer a set of 23-inch rims. The X7 also benefits from updated powertrains. The xDrive40i’s turbocharged six-cylinder now produces 375 horsepower (up 40) and up to 398 pound-feet of torque (up 67). The V-8 model’s name changes from M50i to M60i, and its new twin-turbo 4.4-liter and 48-volt hybrid system are said to form a more efficient duo. The range-topping Alpina XB7 has an even more powerful setup than the M60i, producing 630 horsepower – 18 more than before.

Prices and which one to buy

Even with our fondness for the twin-turbo V-8’s horsepower and notable performance, we’d recommend the X7 xDrive40i. It has desirable standard features that include four-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable front seats with memory settings, heated front seats, a power tailgate, and more. We’ll also add one of the Vernasca leather upholstery options and the Premium package that includes a head-up display, gesture controls and soft-close doors.

Engine, transmission and performance

The entry-level X7 xDrive40i is powered by a 375-hp turbocharged inline-six, and the M60i has a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 that produces 523 horses. The Alpina XB7 has a specially tuned version of that V-8, developing 630 horsepower. All three engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. Every X7 rides on an air suspension with adaptive dampers, and the chassis can be further improved with available rear-axle steering and active anti-roll bars that reduce body roll. Both features are standard on the M60i, which has a sportier suspension setup by default. The smallest wheels on the X7 are 21 inches in diameter, but BMW now also offers 23 inches for the first time. On our test track, the racy-looking M60i model managed to hit 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds. The V-8 engine also provides a solid burble under heavy acceleration. Handling is surprisingly nimble for a large SUV and the X7’s steering is accurate and nicely weighted. We haven’t put the xDrive40i model through our instrumented tests yet, but we did spend some time behind the wheel and can report that it’s both smooth and very powerful, making it better suited to people looking for a more luxury experience preferred.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The 2023 X7 is most efficient when equipped with the standard inline-six. That xDrive40i model received EPA ratings of 21 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. Going with the V-8-powered M60i model will mean hitting the pump more often, as that model is rated for 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. On our 75-mph fuel economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regime, the M60i we tested surprised us with a 23 mpg result. For more information on the X7’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, comfort and cargo

Inside, the X7’s dashboard is dominated by a massive digital display that is slightly curved. The panel boasts a 12.3-inch gauge cluster for the driver and a 14.9-inch touchscreen through which the infotainment system operates. Many luxury features can also be found inside, including heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a power-adjustable steering wheel and ambient interior lighting. However, we were annoyed at how slowly the power-operated, second-row captain’s chair moved when trying to let people in and out of the third row. Likewise, the back seats aren’t particularly roomy for adults on long drives. Still, no one will complain about the X7’s ample interior storage. While we only managed to fit three carry-on bags behind the third row, we fit 33 in total with all the rear seats stowed.

Infotainment and connectivity

The X7’s infotainment system – with the latest iDrive 8 software – operates primarily through a 14.9-inch touchscreen housed in the curved glass panel atop the dashboard. The system can also be controlled via a large dial 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 BMW’s Digital Key that allows users to remotely control vehicle functions via a smartphone app. A more powerful Harman/Kardon stereo and wireless charging are optional features.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Every X7 has a variety of standard driver-assistance technology in addition to several more advanced options. For more information on the X7’s 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 automatic emergency braking
• Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Standard lane departure warning

Warranty and Maintenance Cover

BMW offers a competitive limited and powertrain warranty enhanced by above-average complimentary scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles

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