BMW’s biggest SUV, the BMW X7 is the epitome of luxury, comfort, and advanced technology. This car can also seat up to seven passengers and has ample cargo area. Unlike the X5 which has a seven-seater as optional, it is standard in the X7.
The BMW X7 is also powerful and offers a wider range of powertrains that its competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLS and Jeep Grand Wagoneer don’t have. It also provides a smooth ride and it’s easy to handle. However, the initial price is quite high, but you get what you pay for.
History of the BMW X7?
The BMW X7 is a full-size luxury crossover sport utility vehicle made by BMW. It is also BMW’s largest and most expensive SUV. The car was officially introduced into the market in 201, with pre-orders being made online. Besides, the BMW X7 is manufactured at the BMW US Manufacturing Company plant in Greer, South Carolina.
The BMW X7 is built on the same platform as the G05 X5, nevertheless, the X7 is slightly taller and wider with more cargo space and has third-row seating as standard. Unlike the X5, the X7 comes with an all-wheel drive as standard. So, it is very powerful and great for off-road activities.
Besides, the X7 comes with two trims; the base xDrive40i and the high-performance M50i. For those who love customized cars, Alpina also offers its unique Alpina XB7, but it costs more than even the M50i.
Features of the BMW X7
Appearance
The BMW X7 looks elegant and majestic. Thanks to its gigantic kidney grille enclosed between lovely headlights. It also comes with large 21-inch wheels, LED fogs lights, and several outstanding features. The interior is also opulent and spacious as it’s made of upscale materials. What’s more, it has a standard panoramic moonroof.
Performance
When coming up with the BMW X7, BMW considered different users in mind, and that’s why they have the base model and performance model. The base model is the BMW X7 xDrive40i, while the performance model is the M50i.
The base model is equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-6 gas engine that delivers up to 335 hp and can accelerate from 0 to 60 in 5.8 seconds. It also has a top speed of 130 mph. While the performance model is fitted with a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 gas engine.
The M50i is faster and more powerful than the xDrive40i. Note that both models also feature 8-speed automatic transmission. The M50i produces a maximum of 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. It can also accelerate from 0 to 60 in 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph.
Comfort and cargo space
If you’re a family person and desire a luxurious SUV with ample cabin space and cargo area, the BMW X7 is an exceptional option. This car offers ample cabin space and can fit up to seven people comfortably. It also has ample cargo space that can store lots of luggage even without folding the seats.
Fuel-efficiency
Considering the high-end and advanced features that the BMW X7 comes with, it is more fuel-efficient than most of its competitors like the Audi Q7 and Lexus LX. However, it has the same EPA rating as the Mercedes-Benz GLS, which is its main competitor.
The BMW X7 has an EPA rating of 19 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined.
Price
BMW X7 is the most expensive BMW model on the market. This car boasts luxurious and high-end features that command a high price. So, the price may not be friendly for those looking for an ordinary SUV. The base model goes for about $7,500, while the performance model goes for around $100,500.
FAQ
Is the BMW X7 reliable?
When it comes to reliability, BMW cars are some of the worst. The BMW X7 is not an exception as it’s among the least reliable SUVs on the market. It is ranked almost last by most reliability agencies like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. This is because it comes with lots of high-tech technology that can go wrong easily.
Additionally, the cost of repair and maintenance is high. What’s more, BMW OEM parts are costly, and the cost of repair is also high compared to its competitors.
Is the BMW X7 cheap to maintain?
No, the BMW X7 is very expensive to maintain. Since this car comes with lots of advanced technologies and features, it is easy for them to go wrong. Besides, the cost of spare parts is also high as it’s made up of high-end materials. If you add that up with the costly service from BMW, this car will cost you a lot to maintain.
What are some of the common problems of the BMW X7?
If you intend to purchase a BMW X7, it is important to know some of the problems that you will face along the way. Some of these problems include the default hydraulic unit of the braking system, detached front axle beam, improperly bolted steering spindle, problems with suspension, problems with the transmission, issues with the vehicle structure, and much more.
More about BMW X7 problems.
Which car is better – BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS?
The BMW X7 offers better performance, a quieter ride, and has better fuel economy. On the contrary, the Mercedes-Benz GLS is more advanced, spacious, luxurious, and with substantially more cargo space. However, it is also more expensive, but the BMW X7 is also less reliable.
Is it worth buying the BMW X7?
It depends on what you’re looking for. If you desire a spacious SUV with a powerful engine and a luxurious and advanced interior, the BMW X7 is a perfect ride for you. On the other hand, if you want a reliable and affordable luxurious SUV to maintain, the BMW X7 is not for you.
Summary
The BMW X7 is one of the biggest luxurious SUVs on the market. This 7-seater is luxurious, comfortable, spacious, powerful, and safe. It comes with lots of sophisticated technologies that make it one of the best SUVs. Nonetheless, it has a few issues that interested buyers should know about before investing in it.
On top of that, the BMW X7 is very unreliable but costly. Some of its competitors are the Mercedes-Benz GLS, Audi Q7, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, and Lexus LX. If you’re ready to spend to get a luxurious SUV with a smooth ride with better handling, the BMW X7 should be on top of your list.