2025 BMW X7

It won't surprise you to hear that the X7 handles better and is more manageable on the road than bigger luxe utes like the Cadillac Escalade and Jeep Grand Wagoneer. But you may be surprised to hear that even when fitted with its base engine the X7 accelerates quicker than those American SUVs. What's more, there's a sharpness to its steering and braking that most three-row utes simply lack. It's not an M4, but it also won't embarrass itself on a mountain road. The eight-speed transmission offers paddles for manual control — a hint that BMW knows buyers will want to drive this SUV with purpose. And the EPA rates it at 22 mpg combined with the base engine, a reasonable figure for the segment.

Take a look at the Mercedes-Benz GLS, which manages to match or exceed most of the X7's strengths in a similarly sized and priced package. When it comes to tech and luxury the GLS has the X7's measure. And though the GLS is a respectable-handling SUV, it lacks the X7's well-rounded sharpness. If you want more space consider the Cadillac Escalade, Jeep Grand Wagoneer or Lincoln Navigator. Read our Expert Rating below to discover all the details from our testing.