2023 BMW X7 Review

Trims

2023 BMW X7 trim comparison

Starting MSRP

$78,845

$104,095

$145,995

MPG

Engine

Drive Type

Automatic Emergency Braking

Basic Warranty

Horsepower

Blind Spot System

Surround View Camera

Adaptive Cruise Control

Remote Engine Start

Parking Sensors

Multi-Zone Climate Control

Premium Audio

21 city/25 hwy

16 city/21 hwy

16 city/20 hwy

3.0L I6 Turbo

4.4L V8 Turbo

AWD

4 yr / 50k mi

375 hp

523 hp

631 hp

Engine Type

Fuel Type

Horsepower

Horsepower RPM

Torque

Torque RPM

Engine Displacement

Engine Configuration

Cylinders

Aspiration

Variable Valvetrain

Valvetrain

Number of Valves

Compression Ratio

Eco Mode

Sport Mode

EPA City Fuel Economy

EPA Highway Fuel Economy

EPA Combined Fuel Economy

Start/Stop System

Regenerative Braking

Gas

Premium Unleaded

375 hp

523 hp

631 hp

5200 rpm

5500 rpm

5600 rpm

398 lb-ft

553 lb-ft

590 lb-ft

1850 rpm

1800 rpm

3.0 L

4.4 L

Inline

V

6 cylinder

8 cylinder

Turbocharged

Double Overhead

24 valve

11

21 MPG

16 MPG

25 MPG

21 MPG

20 MPG

22 MPG

18 MPG

17 MPG

Reviewed by Kelly Hellwig

Overview

Sitting at the top of BMW's extensive range of SUVs, the X7 has been given a refresh this year that includes revised exterior styling, more powerful engines, additional standard features, and new cabin technology. All of the upgrades build on what was already a very competitive luxury SUV. The X7 is a spectacular highway cruiser thanks to a compliant suspension that smooths out even the roughest roads and a drivetrain that delivers effortless acceleration at any speed. The base model X7 boasts an additional 40 horsepower over last year's model, while the high-performance XB7 now tops out at 631 hp. Although it's a big vehicle, the X7 is easy to maneuver with light, precise steering, and excellent outward visibility. All-wheel drive is standard, but it has limited off-road capabilities. Everything inside the X7 exudes luxury. From the well-shaped seats to the feel of the buttons and knobs, there are no signs of skimping. And there are numerous ways to further upgrade the interior with multiple upholstery colors and wood trim options. All X7s now feature an all-digital 12.3-inch instrument panel and a 14.9-inch central display screen with an easy-to-use interface that's both practical and impressively capable. Passenger space in the second row is adequate but far from class-leading, while the third-row seats are some of the least spacious in the class. Kids won't mind them, but some competitors offer third-row seating that is suitable for adults. It's a similar story when it comes to cargo. The X7 has usable space, but its European counterparts offer significantly more storage room behind the third row. Primary competitors include the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and Mercedes-Benz GLS, all of which offer similar levels of technology and performance along with more passenger room.

Positives

Serene ride. First-class cabin. Powerful engine options.

Considerations

Less passenger space than class leaders. Cargo room is unimpressive for a vehicle of its size.

Verdict

With three rows of seating, a smooth ride, and plenty of power, the BMW X7 is one of the best luxury SUVs in its class. Some rivals offer more space and better handling, but few put it all together as well as BMW's largest family vehicle.

What's New for 2023

A midcycle refresh for the 2023 model year gives the BMW X7 a new look up front, more power under the hood, and updated technology inside. All X7s get new headlights, a revised grille, and updated taillights. The X7 40i is now rated at 375 horsepower, up from 335. The previous X7 M50i is now the M60i and uses a mild hybrid setup to boost efficiency. The XB7 is now rated at 630 hp, which, according to BMW, means it can go from zero to 60 mph in just 4 seconds. A set of 23-inch wheels is also newly optional. A new 14.9-inch center console display is now standard, along with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster screen.

Trims and Pricing

The 2023 BMW X7 is available in three trim levels: 40i, M60i, and Alpina XB7. All-wheel drive is standard across the range. The 40i is the most popular version, and it is our recommended pick for most buyers. We'll explain why.

40i

The 40i starts at $78,845 (including a $995 destination fee). Standard equipment includes a 375-horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder engine, 21-inch wheels, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, dynamic cruise control, a power-operated tailgate, and heated front seats. This is our preferred trim level as it offers the best combination of performance, efficiency, and luxury for the price.

M60i

The M60i has a starting price of $104,095 and gives you significantly more performance. The M60i is powered by a 523-hp 4.4-liter V8 engine and features an M Sport exhaust and differential. Wheels are upgraded to 22 inches. Vernasca leather seats with blackwood interior trim and a suede-like headliner dress up the interior. A 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with a 464-watt amplifier is standard.

Alpina XB7

The Alpina XB7 starts at $145,995, making it one of the most expensive SUVs available. It's also one of the most powerful, with a 631-hp version of the M60i's twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine. Alpina has been tuning BMWs for decades, increasing their performance, their exclusivity, and in some cases, their refinement. In addition to the increased power and acceleration, the Alpina XB7 gets 21-inch wheels and tires; 23-inch units are optional. The Alpina also gets new front and rear bumpers, Alpina badging, and four large exhaust pipes. Inside, you'll find a thicker-rimmed steering wheel and a few other special touches.

Engine and Performance

The 2023 BMW X7 has a wonderful set of available engines. Each is smooth, refined, and powerful. And every X7 has all-wheel drive, a well-tuned eight-speed automatic transmission, and very powerful brakes. The 40i gets a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that uses twin turbochargers to produce 375 horsepower. Despite the X7's size, this engine allows it to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in about 5.8 seconds. It feels even quicker on the road, which is impressive for a vehicle weighing 5,400 pounds. Moving up to the M60i nets a 523-hp version of BMW's twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8. It uses a mild hybrid system to aid in efficiency, and it hustles the nearly 3-ton SUV to 60 mph in about 4.5 seconds. In the Alpina XB7, that engine is modified to produce 631 hp, making it one of the most powerful and quickest SUVs available. It hits 60 mph from a dead stop in about 4 seconds, according to BMW. That's quicker than the brand's legendary BMW M3 sport sedan.

Fuel Economy

Considering its extreme size, weight, and performance, the 2023 BMW X7 gets decent fuel economy. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the 40i will return 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Step up to the V8-powered M60i, and those numbers fall to 16/21 mpg city/highway. The Mercedes-Benz GLS, Lincoln Navigator, and Cadillac Escalade are similarly thirsty.

Interior

Inside, the BMW X7 doesn't disappoint. The design is attractive, the materials are first-rate, and the build quality is top-notch. Standard 16-way power-adjustable front sport seats are extremely comfortable, even on long drives. The second-row seats are likewise generous and plush. Unfortunately, the X7's third row is cramped and is appropriate only for small children. In comparison, the Mercedes-Benz GLS oozes luxury, and its third row is a bit more spacious. The Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade are both school-bus big. The Caddy features bright metal trim and loads of features, while the Lincoln provides true understated luxury.

Infotainment and Connectivity

BMW practically invented the modern infotainment system, and the X7's iDrive system is among the industry's best and easiest to use. It is more intuitive than the one in the Mercedes-Benz GLS. A massive 14.9-inch touchscreen is standard. But it also responds to a rotary control on the center console or gesture controls. You can turn up the audio volume, for example, by waving your hand or twirling a finger in the air. It also has voice recognition, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Google Maps, Spotify, What'sApp, and others. Navigation is standard, along with wireless charging and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Safety

The BMW X7 has not been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Standard driver aids include automatic high-beam headlights, park-distance control, frontal collision warning, blind-spot detection, and lane-departure warning. In case of an accident, BMW's standard Active Protection System prepares for impact by automatically pre-tensioning safety belts and closing the windows and moonroof. Once a crash happens, the X7's "impact sensor" disconnects the alternator, fuel pump, and starter from the battery, automatically unlocks all doors; and turns on hazard and interior lights.

BMW X7 vs. the Competition

The 2023 BMW X7 is attractive, powerful, fun to drive, refined, and, most important for this size, family-friendly. Few SUVs offer the X7's blend of luxury, although several do offer more passenger space. The Mercedes-Benz GLS is a worthy rival that's equally dynamic. It has a more luxurious interior and a bit more third-row space. If you need an even more spacious ride, the Lincoln Navigator delivers with a cool midcentury vibe, and the Cadillac Escalade is the bestseller in the class.

BMW X7 vs. Cadillac Escalade

BMW X7 vs. Lincoln Navigator

BMW X7 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLS

TrueCar Expert Review Methodology

TrueCar works with a select group of automotive industry experts who test-drive nearly 300 vehicles per year. TrueCar's experts grade the vehicles on key attributes including driving dynamics, comfort, interior design, technology, storage, and efficiency. Our experts also judge recent model updates, pricing and value, trims, options, comparable vehicles, and safety assessments (as provided by the NHTSA and IIHS) to inform their recommendations and help car shoppers choose a vehicle that is right for them.

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Owner Reviews

2023 BMW X7 Owner Ratings & Reviews

1st Generation BMW X7

2019 - Present

Overall Rating

4.7

Based on

Performance

4.8

Comfort

4.7

Fuel Efficiency

4.0

Safety Technology

4.7

Features

4.7

76%

19%

4%

1%

Search

All reviews

Search

5.0

Performance

5.0

Comfort

5.0

Fuel Efficiency

3.0

Safety Technology

5.0

Features

5.0

Performance

5.0

Comfort

5.0

Fuel Efficiency

3.0

Safety Technology

5.0

Features

5.0

pros

The interior is immaculate

cons

Not much to dislike

Submitted by Richard B on --- --- ----|2022 BMW X7 xDrive40i|Purchased on --- --- ----

5.0

Performance

5.0

Comfort

5.0

Fuel Efficiency

2.0

Safety Technology

5.0

Features

5.0

pros

Able to tow 7500 lbs. with room for 6 and 5-zone cooling/heat. Driver assist almost drives itself. The seats are the most comfortable ever (with massage too). And the 530 HP engine with drive shifts so smoothly that you don’t feel like it change gears. Our first BMW.

cons

Would have liked a little more room behind the 3rd row seat and the price.

Submitted by Kurtis K on --- --- ----|2022 BMW X7 M50i|Purchased on --- --- ----

5.0

Performance

5.0

Comfort

4.0

Fuel Efficiency

5.0

Safety Technology

4.0