2020 BMW X7 Review

+139

The X7 adds a heaping dose of driving enjoyment to the large luxury three-row SUV segment with its available turbocharged V8 engine and capable handling. It also offers a bevy of technology features along with enough cargo room for the entire family. It's appropriately big, bold and powerful.

Used X7 for sale

$41,990 - $73,998

32 listings

See Cars for Online Purchase See All for Sale

Appraise This Car

BMW X7 model years

BMW X7 for Sale

2021
2020
2019

BMW X7 types

SUV
M50i

See Edmunds pricing data

Has Your Car's Value Changed?

Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.

See pricing history

2020 BMW X7 Review

byMark Takahashi^{Correspondent
Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the Edmunds YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.}

Pros

Strong engine performance
Smooth ride quality
Impeccable interior

Cons

Expensive for the class
Climate controls can be confusing to use
Some systems don't behave as you'd expect

What's new

A higher-performing X7 M50i model joins the lineup
A minor shuffling of standard and optional features
Part of the first X7 generation introduced for 2019

Overview

BMW introduced the X7 just last year. It's the company's biggest SUV, and it provides high levels of refinement, performance and technology. It can also seat seven passengers. You can say the same thing about the smaller BMW X5, but the X7's third-row seat is roomier, making it a more comfortable and viable vehicle if you're frequently taking along a lot of passengers.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2020 BMW X7 xDrive40i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.93 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$221/mo

$239/mo

Avg. Large SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

The 2020 BMW X7 adds a bit more interest with the introduction of a new range-topping M50i model. It takes the existing V8 engine from the xDrive50i and enhances it to produce a rather stout 523 horsepower. It's enticing, for sure, but we contend that the base 335-hp six-cylinder engine in the xDrive40i is more than enough for the average driver.

We give the X7 high marks for overall comfort, performance and interior quality. It also has well-tuned advanced driver safety aids that alleviate some of the burden of driving. On the downside, it can be rather expensive compared to other luxury SUVs, and some of its controls take getting used to. As such, you might prefer the new Mercedes-Benz GLS — it earns slightly higher scores in Edmunds' expert rankings — but overall these two big luxury SUVs are pretty evenly matched.

Edmunds Expert Rating

good

7.9/10

Edmunds Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

8.0/10

How does the X7 drive? We tested the X7 in xDrive50i guise, which comes with the 456-hp V8. It provides simply delightful acceleration. But there can be a small delay between the time you touch the gas pedal and when you start moving, and that can make low-speed driving annoying.

When you're going straight, the steering provides good on-center feel. It's a bit inconsistent in turns, though. It can be too quick and the level of power assist can be too high for the size and nature of this vehicle. Other times it can feel resistant to turning. Once you're going around a bend, the X7 is thoroughly stable and composed.

Comfort

7.5/10

How comfortable is the X7? Our test X7 had the available road-scanning system that adjusts the suspension based on what it sees. The system is effective at keeping the ride smooth over bigger bumps, but it struggles on relatively smooth or undulating roads and makes the X7 ride too soft.

Inside the cabin, the wide front seatbacks can accommodate a variety of body types. We also like the low levels of wind and road noise. We're less fond of the climate control system. Even when you select the auto setting, you often need to make additional adjustments to the fan intensity and temperature of the dash panel vents. What's the point of auto? You have to continually fiddle with the controls to maintain comfort.

Interior

8.0/10

How’s the interior? Ample adjustment options ensure you can find the right seating position, while the large windows, mirrors and an extensive camera array provide a commanding outward view. There's plenty of space for the family, though in interior measurements, the X7 doesn't match up to some competitors. The sole exception is third-row shoulder room, which is remarkably tight even by third-row standards.

Operating the controls is a mixed bag. Most buttons are easy to find. Gesture controls are an easily ignorable gimmick, but other parts are baffling. For example, sometimes the stereo turns off when you open the door to exit. Other times it waits until you've exited and locked the door.

Technology

8.5/10

How’s the tech? The large and crisp displays are easy to read and react quickly to control inputs and voice commands. But the complexity of the underlying systems and somewhat convoluted menu layout mean there's a steep learning curve. As of a retroactive released in July 2020, the X7 now comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard.

In the right circumstances, such as stop-and-go traffic, the X7's adaptive cruise control system controls speed and steering without driver input, only asking that you keep your eyes on the road (verified with a driver-facing camera).

Storage

7.5/10

How’s the storage? Though not as spacious as some oversize luxury SUVs, the X7 has plenty of room and smart cargo-storage options. The bisected hatch provides an always useful tailgate. And we like the deep storage space underneath the third row where a spare tire would typically reside. While the door pockets are large, interior storage options are merely adequate.

Power-adjusting and -folding second and third rows are slow but easy to operate. They also provide neat features such as max cargo and passenger buttons that arrange the seats accordingly. When equipped with the optional tow hook, the X7 can tow 7,500 pounds, which is about average among three-row SUVs of this size.

Fuel Economy

7.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? We tested the V8-powered xDrive50i model. It gets an EPA-estimated 17 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is about average for a big luxury SUV with a V8. Our test X7 posted 19.6 mpg on our 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation route, so getting the EPA's numbers should be pretty easy. If you want better fuel economy, consider the X7's six-cylinder xDrive40i model, which is rated at 22 mpg combined.

Value

7.5/10

Is the X7 a good value? The X7's price, features and build quality live up to what you'd expect from a large German luxury SUV. The uniform interior panel gaps relay a strong sense of build quality, while extensive and high-quality leather and trimmings reinforce the high-end experience. The four-year/50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranties are average when you look at similar vehicles. But BMW goes a bit above average by covering scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles and providing 24-hour roadside assistance for four years without a mileage restriction.

Wildcard

8.5/10

The X7's massive grille and narrow headlights give it an imposing road presence when viewed from the front. The interior relays that hard-to-place sense of luxury too. Factor in the X7's beefy power and you've got a luxury SUV that makes an appropriately big and bold statement.

Which X7 does Edmunds recommend?

The average driver will find the base X7 xDrive40i more than adequate in terms of power, performance and features. There are also plenty of options to deliver the level of luxury that comes with the V8-powered models. Besides appealing to performance-oriented drivers, the xDrive50i would be a sensible upgrade if you plan on towing.

2020 BMW X7 models

The 2020 BMW X7 is a seven-passenger, three-row SUV that is available in three trim levels: xDrive40i, xDrive50i and the new M50i. The xDrive40i is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder (335 horsepower, 330 lb-ft of torque). It's paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels. The xDrive50i receives a 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 (456 hp, 479 lb-ft), while the M50i squeezes out 523 hp and 553 lb-ft from that same engine.

Standard xDrive40i features include 21-inch wheels, adaptive LED headlights, automatic high beams, heated power-folding mirrors, automatic wipers, front and rear parking sensors, a power dual-section tailgate, a panoramic sunroof and a self-leveling air-ride suspension.

Inside, you also get four-zone automatic climate control, remote vehicle monitoring and control via a smartphone app, auto-dimming rearview and driver-side mirrors, simulated leather upholstery (SensaTec), heated front seats, 40/20/40-split folding second-row seats, and 50/50-split folding third-row seats.

Standard technology features for the X7 include a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, a navigation system, Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, a wireless charging pad and a 10-speaker sound system. Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning are also included.

To this, you can add the Parking Assistance package (a surround-view camera system, an automated parking system and a video/data recorder).

The xDrive50i trim includes all of the above and adds leather upholstery, multicontour front seats, soft-close doors, a surround-view camera, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system. Opting for the new M50i gets you 22-inch wheels, dark exterior trim, a sport exhaust, an adaptive sport suspension, a sport differential, launch control and sport brakes.

Most of the X7's options are bundled in packages. The major ones you'll want to consider are the Premium, Cold Weather and Driving Assistance Professional packages. Other notable stand-alone add-ons include 22-inch wheels, running boards, an upgraded trailer hitch, second-row captain's chairs, a 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround-sound system, and a dual-screen rear entertainment system.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 BMW X7.

5 (47%)

4 (5%)

3 (9%)

2 (7%)

1 (32%)

3.3

34 reviews

Write a vehicle review See all 34 reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

Best vehicle I've ever owned

J. Stone, 03/09/2020

2020 BMW X7 M50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)

I have a 2020 X7 M50i, which I ordered in December and picked up via Performance Center Delivery at the end of January (an experience I highly recommend, if you're able). We drove it home, which was an 1800-mile road trip, and have basically just been using it around town... other than a day trip up into the mountains. The X7 has performed flawlessly. It's amazingly quiet, the interior …

Great utility vehicle that drives like a sportscar

Bentonville Buyer, 10/25/2020

2020 BMW X7 xDrive40i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)

I bought my x7 a year ago after considering this and an Audi Q8. I liked the Audi as well, but the dealership was 80 miles away versus 3 miles away in Bentonville. Sales process was the smoothest I have ever experienced. Came in, drove the car, decided I wanted it and was done purchasing it 35 minutes later. Service to date has been equally smooth. Unquestionably, the best dealer …

Love my X7

Boymom8, 08/04/2020

2020 BMW X7 xDrive40i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)

This car is really fun to drive, and it fits my family comfortably. I will say that I need a lesson in all of it's features because there are a bunch of surprises in technology - but I need to go to dealership and get educated. I traded an Escalade and had a Yukon previously. I gave up a little room, but the car is definitely sportier and more fun.

2020 BMW X7 xDrive 40i MSport Package

Won, 04/21/2020

2020 BMW X7 xDrive40i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)

What else can I say, I absolutely love this vehicle. First BMW I have ever owned. Have owned various SUV's in the past - Armada, MDX, Pilot, Xterra, Tahoe. Nothing compares to the X7. This vehicle has all of the bells and whistles, is plush, and luxurious. Nothing that I have experienced before. The X7 has plenty of power (even in the 40i). Completely satisfied. Completely sold …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 BMW X7, so we've included reviews for other years of the X7 since its last redesign.

See all 34 reviews of the BMW X7

Write a vehicle review

2020 X7 Highlights

Type:

SUV

Trim:

xDrive40i

Base MSRP	$73,900
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	22 MPG
Cost to Drive	$221/month
Seating	7 seats
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the X7 models:

Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation: Warns if a frontal collision is imminent and applies the brakes if the driver doesn't respond in time.
Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its marked lanes.
Active Blind-Spot Detection: Alerts you with in-mirror lights when a vehicle is in a blind spot, followed by steering wheel vibration if you attempt to change lanes.

People who viewed this also viewed

BMW X5
4.8 average Rating out of 13 reviews.
Starting at $61,600

See BMW X5 Inventory

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
3.6 average Rating out of 5 reviews.
Starting at $81,800

See Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Inventory

Audi Q7
3.6 average Rating out of 5 reviews.
Starting at $59,200

See Audi Q7 Inventory

2020 BMW X7 Review

2020 BMW X7 Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2020 BMW X7 xDrive40i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.93 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.}

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which X7 does Edmunds recommend?

2020 BMW X7 models

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 BMW X7.

Trending topics in reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

Best vehicle I've ever owned

Great utility vehicle that drives like a sportscar

Love my X7

2020 BMW X7 xDrive 40i MSport Package

2020 X7 Highlights

Safety

People who viewed this also viewed

Related Used 2020 BMW X7 info

Vehicle reviews of used models

Shop similar models

Shop used vehicles in your area

Popular new car reviews and ratings

Research recent models from same make

Research similar vehicles

Other models

Join Edmunds

2020 BMW X7 Review

2020 BMW X7 Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 BMW X7 xDrive40i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.93 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which X7 does Edmunds recommend?

2020 BMW X7 models

Most helpful consumer reviews

Best vehicle I've ever owned

Great utility vehicle that drives like a sportscar

Love my X7

2020 BMW X7 xDrive 40i MSport Package

2020 X7 Highlights

Safety

People who viewed this also viewed

Related Used 2020 BMW X7 info

Vehicle reviews of used models

Shop similar models

Shop used vehicles in your area

Popular new car reviews and ratings

Research recent models from same make

Research similar vehicles

Other models

Join Edmunds

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2020 BMW X7 xDrive40i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.93 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.}