The Car Connection Expert Review
Likes
- Lovely interior
- Powerful engine options
- Balanced handling
- Third-row can fit adults
- Great standard equipment list
Dislikes
- Gets expensive quick
- Small cargo area
- Large gap in price between powertrains
- Layered infotainment has a learning curve
Buying tip
features & specs
The 2023 BMW X7 three-row SUV sports a mid-cycle refresh with new ends, new lighting, updated powertrains, and updated tech.
What kind of vehicle is the 2023 BMW X7? What does it compare to?
The BMW X7 is a luxury three-row SUV that matches the features and amenities found in the 7-Series sedan flagship. BMW’s largest vehicle competes with large luxury SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, Audi Q7, and the Land Rover Range Rover.
Is the 2023 BMW X7 a good SUV?
The 2023 BMW X7 earns a TCC Rating of 7.4 out of 10 on the strength of its performance and creature comforts. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
What's new for the 2023 BMW X7?
The X7’s refresh brings new styling, upgraded in-cabin technology, new driver-assist tech, and a boost in power for the base model. Last year’s M50i trim has been dropped in favor of a new M60i trim level that slots in above the base xDrive40i.
Styling updates include a reworked front end, which still includes a large version of BMW’s signature kidney grille with chrome elements on the vertical slats and available illuminated elements that stand out at night. The big grille looks more in place here on the taller X7 than it does on BMW’s sedans. Thinner headlights and taillights slim down the light signature front and rear. The real charm sits inside, however.
Under the hood, the X7 now features a 48-volt mild hybrid system between the revised engines and 8-speed automatic transmission on both models. The xDrive40i gets a new turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 that produces 375 hp, which is an increase of 40 hp over last year’s model. The renamed M60i trim uses the same 523-hp 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 as last year’s M50i, and BMW quotes a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. All-wheel drive is standard across the lineup, as is a standard air suspension with adaptive dampers that cushion the ride. A new “Sprint” function accessible by holding down the left paddle for a second or so shifts the X7 to the lowest possible gear, and switches the chassis/powertrain into its sportiest settings as well as activating the hybrid system’s boost effect for added torque.
Inside, the X7 features a new display setup with a single piece of curved glass that houses both a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 14.9-inch infotainment screen. The X7’s instrument panel works with the navigation system to offer augmented reality functions that can display directional arrows over a live view of the road to give the driver clearer directions. The xDrive40i also comes with a new synthetic leather upholstery that BMW calls “Sensafin,” while leather is still available as an option.
BMW upgraded the X7’s automatic emergency braking system to detect oncoming traffic, as well as detecting cyclists and pedestrians in the blind spot while turning and, once stopped, while getting out of the car. It lacks crash-test ratings from the IIHS and the NHTSA.
How much does the 2023 BMW X7 cost?
The 2023 BMW X7 xDrive40i starts the bidding at $78,845 (including a $995 destination charge). BMW loads it with features, ranging from heated front power seats to heated steering wheel and armrests, as well as a split power tailgate. The new M60i trim with its more powerful engine and additional performance features starts at $104,095. The Alpina XB7 costs $145,995.
Where is the BMW X7 made?
In Spartanburg, South Carolina.
2023 BMW X7 Styling
The X7’s stately shape keeps its exquisite interior under wraps.
Is the BMW X7 a good-looking car?
The mid-cycle refresh of the X7 leans into its most distinctive elements, with thinner lighting elements, a big-and-bold grille, and a front bumper busier with creases and folds. It doesn’t add or detract much, whereas the upgraded interior only makes it more refined and expressive, earning two points here to a 7.
A lot has been made of the latest iterations of BMW’s signature twin kidney grille, and the big slats on the X7 look most fitting on BMW’s biggest vehicle. Chrome elements and available illuminated elements can draw even more attention to it, but we’d leave it as is to balance the long nose and broad hood that give it a sporty look, especially on available 23-inch wheels—an X7 first. The LED headlight clusters look thinner, as do new taillights with 3D elements. Available crystal running lights add some sparkle.
Alpina XB7s can be shod with 23-inch 20-spoke wheels to go with their splitters and spoilers and diffusers, which resolve well with the X7’s shape.
The interior features a new screen display consisting of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster running into a 14.9-inch touchscreen curved to the driver under a single pane of glass. It’s more integrated and elegant than its predecessor, and doesn’t diminish the lighter leather options or the light open pore wood and metallic trim elements. BMW declutters the console with a minimized gear selector, but drive mode buttons and the infotainment dial remain.
2023 BMW X7 Performance
Powered by more potent yet efficient engines, the 2023 BMW X7 moves like a smaller vehicle.
Heavy but fleet of foot, large but graceful, the 2023 BMW X7 moves through traffic like an All-Pro linebacker. Two revised engine options as well as a standard air suspension give the X7 a power and agility that belies its size. It’s a 7, but the M60i V-8 would earn another point if rated separately.
Is the BMW X7 4WD?
All-wheel drive and a self-leveling air suspension with adaptive dampers come standard, and help balance a curb weight of 5,417 pounds on xDrive40i models. Acoustic glass and other sound-deadening material keeps the cabin of the X7 an oasis of calm, even on the newly available 23-inch wheels.
How fast is the BMW X7?
BMW upgrades the base model with a 375-hp 3.0-liter turbo inline-6 that makes 398 lb-ft of torque, up 40 hp and 52 lb-ft from the outgoing inline-6. It’s 1 mpg more efficient, yet hits 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, according to BMW. A mild-hybrid battery system that helps with low-speed torque as well as a sophisticated start/stop mode sits between the inline-6 and 8-speed automatic transmission. It’s unnoticeably smooth and has more than enough power for most driver’s needs, especially for on-ramp thrills after dropping off the kids.
BMW renamed the M50i to M60i this year, and revised the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 found in other M vehicles. It makes 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, same as last year, and goes from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. It uses the same mild-hybrid setup as the xDrive40i. It’s remarkably responsive for a vehicle weighing 5,895 pounds, and can reach a top speed of 155 mph in defiance of physics. The sound of the V-8 only answers when called upon, so completing local errands is never met with arched eyebrows from the local Karens. When opened up, it burbles and wails with a more sophisticated snarl than those of muscle cars.
BMW has one more performance temptation in the Alpine XB7, with the twin-turbo V-8 tuned to 631 hp and 590 lb-ft. We haven’t tested it but BMW claims a 0-60 mph run of just 3.9 seconds and an unimaginable top speed of 180 mph.
The M60i’s rear-axle steering (optional on the xDrive40i) helps shave some blockiness in sweeping turns, and the electronically locking rear differential portions torque to the rear wheel with the most grip. The adaptive dampers and other suspension wizardry do a great job of cushioning the X7 from the road, but can’t overcome the sheer size of the X7 when toggling modes from Comfort to Sport. It does a commendable job at limiting body roll and balancing the weight in and out of turns, and its performance on winding roads that lack hairpins encourages excuses for repeated trips.
The X7 xDrive40 can tow 5,400 pounds, and the V-8 can tow up to 7,500 pounds.
2023 BMW X7 Comfort & Quality
The 2023 BMW X7 proves that family haulers need not compromise luxury.
It’s not easy to have nice things and have kids, and for both to be well-kept. With abundant space for up to seven passengers, a luxury-lined interior, plenty of cargo space, and thoughtful touches for those in the family way, the X7 proves that luxury and family can coexist. BMW’s largest vehicle earns a perfect 10 for utility and comfort.
Longer and larger than the related BMW X5, the U.S.-made X7 has an interior advantage over the GLS-Class and Q7, though don’t mistake it for a full-size SUV. It might be more posh than the GLS as well, with standard heated and 16-way power-adjustable front seats that include shoulder and thigh support to help relieve pain from the most tiresome are-we-there-yet trips. A heated steering wheel and heated armrests also come standard. The M60i upgrades to Merino leather in warm hues, lighter wood trim options, and an Alcantara headliner, while finishes such as glass-tipped controls, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, power rear window shades, and other trim options, such as blue and white leather, add to the luxury package.
BMW knows its American market with large cupholders (that can be heated and cooled), deep door pockets, and a deep center console.
Most X7 shoppers will upgrade from the standard second-row bench that seats three people to captain’s chairs nearly as comfortable as the front seats. Legroom measures out to 37.6 inches, and in either configuration, the power-sliding second-row seats open up easily to a third row that can fit two adults.
The third row power-folds down to increase cargo space from 11.5 cubic feet to 48.6 cubic feet behind row two. Like the X5, the X7 comes with a split tailgate with a bottom portion measuring about six inches high that stays in place when opening the upper section to retrieve groceries and other items without risking them rolling out of the cargo hold. Or the lower portion folds flat for a tailgate seat. It’s neat.
2023 BMW X7 Safety
The 2023 BMW X7 awaits crash-test ratings from the IIHS and the NHTSA.
How safe is the BMW X7?
Neither safety agency has crash-tested BMW’s largest vehicle, and we withhold a rating until those ratings are complete. But BMW equips it with standard driver-assist tech such as automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams, parking sensors, active lane control, and adaptive cruise control. An available driver assist package enables hands-free driving for extended periods at speeds of up to 85 mph. The parking assistant has been upgraded to include a trailer assistant that helps to execute reversing maneuvers with a trailer attached via the X7’s controller in the center console. A surround-view camera system is also available.
A great driving position offers good outward vision, though head rests pop up in the rearview mirror like big toes.
2023 BMW X7 Features
The 2023 BMW X7 covers the luxury spectrum, from Merino leather and crystal shifter to a good warranty.
Loaded with standard equipment and a large, user-friendly touchscreen, the 2023 BMW X7 shows off the brand’s best and brightest. Luxurious options and an excellent 4-year/50,000-mile warranty with free service for 3 years or 36,000 miles add two more points to a 9.
Which BMW X7 should I buy?
We’d be happy with the base xDrive40i for $78,845 with its three-row seating, 21-inch wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, wood trim, remote start, heated power-adjustable front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
The refreshed X7 shows off BMW’s new infotainment interface. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster sits under the same curved piece of glass as a 14.9-inch touchscreen that features swipeable tiles. It’s still layered with info, but the customizable displays aren’t as complex. The climate menu hot button exists in the lower part of the screen and takes some getting used to in place of controls. It comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless smartphone charger is wedged under the center stack. The natural voice commands work well to bypass many of the touchscreen functions, from navigation to climate controls.
A remote parking feature controlled by an app on your smartphone shows off some of BMW’s more advanced technology, and it can store up to 10 starting points and complete all the driving moves within about 650 feet to get in and out and back to that starting point without driver intervention.
How much is a fully loaded BMW X7?
If you thought the new M60i would be enough of a performance upgrade for $104,095, BMW has another way to tempt your money. The $145,995 Alpina XB7 ups the ante with a 612-hp 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8. It sports a head-up display, glass controls, and options such as a Bowers & Wilkins audio and a rear-seat entertainment system that exceed $150,000.
2023 BMW X7 Fuel Economy
The 2023 BMW X7 SUV is efficient for its size.
Is the BMW X7 good on gas?
BMW’s largest vehicle is more efficient than other large all-wheel-drive SUVs. A 48-volt mild-hybrid system adds mild electric boost and takes some of the electrical load from the engine. The turbo-6 X7 xDrive40i earns EPA ratings of 21 mpg city, 25 highway, 22 combined. That’s a 2 here.
The new M60i and its twin-turbo V-8 eke out 16/21/18 mpg, which is a 1-mpg improvement over its M50i predecessor. The Alpina XB7 rates at 16/20/17 mpg.
