When it comes to moving an affluent family, there's no better BMW than the X7, the brand's luxurious three-row SUV. While its cargo area and rearmost seats aren't as spacious as rivals such as the Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Mercedes-Benz GLS-class, the Bimmer boasts better driving manners as well as an impressive selection 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 highest-class, max-performance Alpina XB7.
The 2023 X7 receives a mid-cycle refresh that includes a more expressive front end and a new dashboard design with a huge digital display 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 offer a set of 23-inch rims, too. The X7 also benefits from updated powertrains. The xDrive40i's turbocharged six-cylinder now makes 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 claimed to form a more efficient duo. The range-topping Alpina XB7 has an even more powerful setup than the M60i that makes 630 horsepower–18 more than before. The price of the 2023 BMW X7 starts at $78,845 and goes up to $145,995 depending on the trim and options.
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. At our test track, the racy-looking M60i model managed to hit 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, but the xDrive40i wasn't far behind, hitting the same speed in just 4.6 seconds.
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 motions. 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 X7's 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 X7's ride quality takes a hit.
The 2023 X7 is most efficient when it's 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.
Total MSRP
$78,845
Drive Type
All wheel drive
Transmission
8-speed automatic
Fuel type
Premium unleaded
Engine
3.0L, 24 valve inline 6
Engine Type
Turbocharged
Torque
398 lb-ft @ 1850 rpm
Horsepower
375 hp @ 6250 rpm
Inside, the X7's dashboard is dominated by a massive digital display that's 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 captain's chair moved when trying to let people in and out of the third row. Likewise, the way-back seats aren't especially roomy for adults during prolonged drives.
The X7 is the biggest BMW, but it's still satisfying to drive and serene to ride in. Quiet as a library inside, ride is velvety smooth on base 21-inch wheels, desirable powertrain options.
Third row isn't very roomy, power-folding rear seats are slow, mediocre cargo space.
LuxxCar Expert
