The BMW X7 refresh is a case of one step forward, one step back. On the plus side, the standard turbocharged inline six-cylinder gets a boost in power and fuel efficiency thanks to the addition of a mild hybrid system. We're also fans of the crisp new widescreen display layout.
But an overreliance on virtual buttons and confounding design decisions (whose idea was it to remove the cruise control distance buttons from the steering wheel?) keep the X7 from claiming the crown in this segment.
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.
Pros
Strong engine performance
Smooth ride
Impeccable interior
Cutting-edge displays
Cons
Expensive for the class
Some rivals offer more passenger and cargo space
Overreliance on touchscreen-based controls
What's new
Updated front and rear styling
Base trim gets revamped engine and more power
Innovative dash display fuses digital instruments and infotainment
Part of the first X7 generation introduced for 2019
Overview
BMW has thrown a new coat of paint at its flagship three-row SUV, both in literal and figurative senses. Literally, the automaker had purged five exterior colors from the 2023 BMW X7 lineup but added five new ones (two blues and three grays, if you were wondering). But BMW marks the first-generation X7's midway point figuratively with a fresh dose of more power for its six-cylinder engine, a rebuilt V8 engine (yet with the same power as before), a significant in-car tech overhaul, and a subtle update to the X7's otherwise bold face.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 BMW X7 M60i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 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.
A new electrical assist system is added to both of the X7's six- and eight-cylinder engines, although the six-cylinder benefits most. It gains 40 horsepower for a total of 375 hp and about 15% more low-end torque. The V8 is built from entirely new components, according to BMW, yet makes the same power as the outgoing engine. At 523 hp, it feels like plenty, though the six-cylinder engine is no slouch either. The new X7 also features a sophisticated air suspension and anti-roll functions that give it a sure-footedness uncommon in its class. That helps it handle better than most rivals, with more controlled body motions around corners.
Up front, the X7 features restyled headlights, with LED intensity packed into a narrower real estate. The oversized kidney grille remains a love-it-or-leave-it proposition, but assuming you love it, now you have the option to illuminate it with multiple tiny LED accents. Inside the cabin, two separate high-definition dash displays seamlessly join into one expansive curved widescreen, incorporating both digital driver instruments and the X7's infotainment nerve center. It's a truly impressive unit, among the best in the business, and its curvature encourages the passenger to take control of functions such as navigation that might otherwise distract a driver.
The cumulative changes give the X7 an edge in a competitive class of large luxury SUVs. We're still partial to the X7's main rival, the Mercedes-Benz GLS since it better embodies the space and luxury most buyers seek. And others like the Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade outmatch the X7 in cargo space and towing capacity. But if you prefer a big SUV that can still handle corners at high speed, the refreshed 2023 X7 is one of your best bets. Check out our test team's Expert Rating below for a full report.
Edmunds Expert Rating
great
8.1/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe 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.
The BMW X7 refresh is a case of one step forward, one step back. On the plus side, the standard turbocharged inline six-cylinder gets a boost in power and fuel efficiency thanks to the addition of a mild hybrid system. We're also fans of the crisp new widescreen display layout.
But an overreliance on virtual buttons and confounding design decisions (whose idea was it to remove the cruise control distance buttons from the steering wheel?) keep the X7 from claiming the crown in this segment.
How does the X7 drive? We tested the X7 xDrive40i, which has the inline six-cylinder engine. Boot the accelerator at any speed and the X7 pulls ahead with zero drama. At our test track, the X7 xDrive40i accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. That's hugely impressive for a luxury three-row SUV with a six-cylinder. For comparison, the last Cadillac Escalade (with its 420-hp V8, mind you) we tested needed 6.7 seconds to get to 60 mph.
The X7 crossover is reasonably athletic around turns for such a large SUV, especially if you compare it to truck-based alternatives. In more routine driving, the X7 is smooth and easy to drive. Transmission shifts are quick and unobtrusive.
Comfort
8.0/10
How comfortable is the X7? Electronic wizardry abounds to keep the X7's ride comfortable. Our test vehicle had the Dynamic Handling package, which includes a camera that scans the road for imperfections and actively prepares the suspension dampers to provide the smoothest ride possible. That's the idea anyway. In Comfort mode, the suspension borders on floaty. We found the ride to be overly floaty when we had the X7 in the Comfort setting; switching to Sport settled down the ride without compromising overall comfort.
BMW makes some of the best high-end seats in the business, and the adjustable upper backrest makes it a cinch to find a perfect driving position. Exterior noise is absent except for the pleasant growl of the inline-six under heavy acceleration.
The only real downside is the climate system. The air vents are small and the automatic setting might not keep you fully satisfied with cabin temperatures or fan speed. We also thought it odd that this high-end SUV doesn't offer ventilated second-row seats (you can get them in a Kia Telluride), but the front seat's ventilation is so weak that they probably wouldn't be missed anyway.
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How’s the interior? The large doors make the cabin easy to enter and exit. First-row room is exceptional, and there's plenty of space in the second row for 6-footers. The third row is noticeably tighter, but some negotiation with second-row passengers makes everything work from a legroom perspective. The sloping roofline intrudes on headroom for taller backseat passengers, but the likelihood of traveling with a full complement of NBA forwards is unlikely.
We're less enthused with the X7's controls. Many of the screen-based controls are frustrating to use because they're buried in menus and hard to find. We'd prefer regular physical buttons. Another issue is the lack of a button on the steering wheel to adjust the adaptive cruise control's following distance. Making adjustments to the following distance can help the driver tailor adaptive cruise to different traffic situations. The on-screen controller can't easily be accessed while driving, and we couldn't find a discernible way to adjust adaptive cruise by voice command. It's a major unforced error.
Technology
8.0/10
How’s the tech? The X7's tech offerings are fairly robust. There are USB-C ports in every row (plus one older USB-A up front), along with wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though we experienced occasional glitches with smartphone wireless connectivity. The upgraded 16-speaker Harman Kardon system is well worth the extra spend, while the seriously expensive Bowers & Wilkins system will impress even the most hardened audiophile.
BMW's voice-activated virtual assistant is also a cut above most voice control systems in how it responds and its ability to change things like the climate control settings. But some of our drivers took issue with the onboard navigation system. They disliked the map display (too many streets shown) and the way the system doesn't provide an initial bearing to a destination. It can be difficult to know whether the location is in front, behind or 2 miles off your intended path.
Storage
8.0/10
How’s the storage? The X7 features a split tailgate that helps prevent items from sliding out the back if you're parked on a driveway incline. There's also a button to lower the air suspension if you're loading an especially heavy item. Cargo figures (12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.6 cubes behind the second and 90.4 cubes behind the first) are competitive against crossovers. But large truck-based SUVs such as the Escalade offer more room.
There are sizable pockets in all doors, along with cupholders in each row. The front cupholders are even heated and cooled — a neat touch not found in non-luxury SUVs. Loading car seats is a breeze thanks to the ample space and easily accessible LATCH anchors and tethers.
Fuel Economy
8.0/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates that the X7 xDrive40i achieves fuel economy of 22 mpg in combined city/highway driving. That's near or at the top of the luxury three-row SUV class.
Value
8.0/10
Is the X7 a good value? Our test X7's interior featured a copious amount of leather and wood, plus party tricks like glass controls and an illuminated panoramic sunroof. We're especially fond of our tester's Sparkling Copper Metallic paint, which seems like a misnomer at first. From a distance, it looked like a pastel blue/gray, but upon closer inspection (and in direct sunlight) you can see the gold/copper undertones. Very cool. Pricing for the X7 is average for the class. The X7 doesn't set new standards but it does offer solid value for the money.
Wildcard
8.5/10
Even the base X7 is pretty fun to drive and makes a lot of sense. The strong inline-six means you no longer have to choose between efficiency and performance, which gives this powertrain an intriguing value proposition. While not exactly an M4 on stilts, the X7 is a solid performer, where rivals are content to just lumber along.
The X7 suffers in the looks department, however. The latest squinty headlights (X7, did you inject Botox into your cheeks again?) are a little polarizing, as is the grille. But overall the X7 has a lot of little extras that will impress owners and their friends every day.
Which X7 does Edmunds recommend?
The M60i offers remarkable performance, with a rowdy V8 that moves the big SUV with total authority and sings a glorious song along the way. But it's a commitment, both in the price on the contract and at the pump. We'd stick with the well-equipped xDrive40i. The additional power for this year's six-cylinder makes it more potent, and you can add many of the M60i's features as options. You'll certainly want to consider the Driving Assistance Professional package as it bundles a variety of advanced driver aids.
BMW X7 models
The 2023 BMW X7 is a seven-passenger three-row SUV available in two trim levels: xDrive40i and M60i. The xDrive40i is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine with 375 horsepower and up to 398 lb-ft of torque. The M60i comes with a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 rated at 523 hp and 553 lb-ft. Both engines pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Feature highlights include:
xDrive40i Comes well equipped with:
Self-leveling air suspension
21-inch wheels
Adaptive LED headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
Roof rails
Power dual-section tailgate
Remote start
Panoramic sunroof
Four-zone automatic climate control
Remote vehicle monitoring and control via a smartphone app
Simulated leather upholstery (BMW's Sensafin)
Multi-contour heated front seats (with multiple power adjustments)
Heated front armrests and steering wheel
The xDrive40i also has:
Customizable ambient cabin lighting
Digital gauge cluster
14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen
Head-up display
Navigation system
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
Wireless device charging
10-speaker sound system
Standard safety features for the X7 include:
Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
Front and rear parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of or behind the vehicle when parking)
Automatic high beams
M60i Along with its more powerful engine, the M60i adds:
22-inch wheels
M Sport brakes with blue calipers
M Sport exhaust
Illuminated grille
Rear-wheel steering
Leather upholstery
Soft-close doors (catch as they're being closed and gently pull shut)
Rear power window sunshades
Infotainment gesture control (controlling features such as volume and track selection by gesturing with your hands)
Surround-view camera (gives you a top-down view of the vehicle and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
Automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with little or no driver intervention)
16-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system
Most of the M60i's upgrades are available on the xDrive40i as optional equipment. Other key options or packages for the X7 include:
Driving Assistance Professional package
Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the BMW and the car in front)
Lane keeping assist (steers the X7 back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)
Collision detection with automatic lane change assist
Forward cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle in front you is about to cross your vehicle's path)
I really enjoy driving my fully equipped 23 X7 M60i, despite some differences from my 21 Mercedes GLS 450 that I traded after racking up 67K in a 22 months! I currently have almost 16k on my 23 X7 M60i, that being said, I feel very qualified to say the following: 1. the power is simply outstanding and smooth, 2. the transmission is probably one of the best in a vehicle of this class. 3. … The middle row is spacious and very comfortable (I prefer the bench seat for my family), and I love the center arm rest, 4. the professional driving package is worth the extra money, especially when driving long distances. All-in-all, I love the styling of the new X7 - it has grown on me, oh the power is just incredible, and finally it's a wonderful for long trips in the customized sport mode stiffening the suspension. Wishes, the front seats could have a bit more cushion / support, the massaging seats are not as strong as my GLS 450. Last thoughts, the 22 wheels are just fine and look incredible!
This SUV is like no other. I test drove the Mercedes GLS, although very nice, it lacked presence and performance. It does have a lot of classy features but it feels too busy inside for me. I like simplicity and performance. The X7 M60i is a beast on wheels and handles with perfection and comfort. The looks are insane, classy but at the same time very sporty. I am super happy with … this SUV and actually feel this is by far the best SUV I have ever owned, and I have owned many ;-)
We consider the Mercedes-Benz GLS the class leader. You really can't do much better. It's not as sporty as the X7, but we'd argue that performance is less a priority than pampering and comfort when it comes to big luxury SUVs. And when it comes to passenger space and cargo capacity, the GLS beats the BMW on both counts. We'll take the Benz's subtler styling as well.
The Lincoln Navigator is larger than the X7 and its bold styling makes it seem even more imposing. But while the Navigator has a storied pedigree and presents a distinct look and feel, the X7 is far more refined inside. If cargo space is a priority, though, the Navigator wins easily, and its 8,700-pound towing capacity outmatches the X7's 7,500-pound limit.
The Cadillac Escalade offers more passenger and cargo space than the X7, but its massive footprint makes it unwieldy in tight spaces. The Escalade makes a strong statement with its wide digital display (now outdone by the X7's own massive centerpiece) and sharp, tailored styling. It also stands out with its advanced semi-automated hands-free driving system (Super Cruise), which we consider among the best in the industry.
The BMW X7 is the brand's largest SUV. With three rows and seating for either six or seven, the X7 doesn't hold back when it comes to performance or perks. With more power, improved tech and even a front-end face-lift, the 2023 X7 adds appeal to an already loaded luxury SUV.
The X7 goes beyond your average grocery-toting, people-moving SUV and leans more toward performance when compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Jeep Grand Wagoneer. The X7's closest competitors would be the Mercedes GLS-Class and the long-wheelbase, three-row version of Land Rover's Range Rover.
What's under the X7's hood?
Three X7 models will be available for the 2023 model year — the X7 xDrive40i, the sporty X7 M60i and the exclusive Alpina XB7. All are paired with a revised eight-speed automatic transmission that's said to shift more quickly.
The xDrive40i gets a new 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with electric assist. Producing 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, it's up 40 hp and 52 lb-ft compared to the previous xDrive40i's engine, and it can even hit 398 lb-ft of torque at full whack thanks to an extra electric boost.
If you pop the hood of the X7 M60i, you'll find a significant step up. The M60i's 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 produces the same 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque as the 4.4-liter V8 in last year's M50i, but BMW says it's been enhanced with mild hybrid electric assist just like its six-cylinder counterpart.
And finally, for those who are looking for supreme performance in an SUV, the Alpina XB7 will sport a highly tuned version of the 4.4-liter V8 that can produce 630 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. The XB7 will go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4 seconds and can reach a maximum speed of 180 mph.
How's the X7's interior?
The interior of the X7 is just what you'd expect from BMW — clean and modern but indulgent, with plush materials and a high-tech vibe. A sumptuous new vegan leather interior comes standard with multicontour front seats that offer extensive adjustability. The new curved instrument panel that extends well past the driver commands a significant presence on the dashboard, making it one of the X7's most notable new features. It consists of a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 14.9-inch central display, joined together behind one seamless glass surface and curved toward the driver. The operating system features the latest iteration of BMW's iDrive software.
And finally, if you opt for the M60i model, you'll have plenty of visual proof inside to back its badging. There are plenty of M-adorned interior features, including illuminated doorsill plates with "M60i" lettering and an M leather steering wheel with M-colored stitching. Also specific to the M60i are an M-specific ambient lighting bar and an M headliner.
How's the X7's tech?
Beyond the aforementioned massive curved display, the 2023 X7 offers 5G connectivity and a standard Personal eSIM card. This means that the vehicle's 5G antenna system increases reception and the eSIM allows the drivers to execute all phone functions without having their phone physically on them. There's also a new "Welcome Scenario" that greets you once you are within 10 feet of the vehicle.
Additional tech highlights include:
Digital Key Plus, allowing you to use your Apple iPhone to unlock the X7.
Natural dialogue with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, which BMW claims will enable better voice-command recognition and execution.
Precision navigating with Augmented View, providing a live video stream from the driver's perspective that's shown on the center display with graphic overlays to provide context-specific information.
Edmunds says
From its outrageously large kidney-shaped grille to its hyped-up 0-60 stats, the BMW X7 has always been a little extra, but there's even more for the 2023 model year. For the SUV shopper who wants it all — performance, technology and luxury — the 2023 BMW X7 will be tough to top.
FAQ
Is the BMW X7 a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 X7 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.1 out of 10. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a BMW X7. Learn more
What's new in the 2023 BMW X7?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 BMW X7:
Updated front and rear styling
Base trim gets revamped engine and more power
Innovative dash display fuses digital instruments and infotainment
Part of the first X7 generation introduced for 2019
To determine whether the BMW X7 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the X7. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the X7's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2023 BMW X7 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 BMW X7 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 X7 and gave it a 8.1 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 X7 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2023 BMW X7?
The least-expensive 2023 BMW X7 is the 2023 BMW X7 M60i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $103,100.
Other versions include:
M60i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) which starts at $103,100
If you're interested in the BMW X7, the next question is, which X7 model is right for you? X7 variants include M60i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A). For a full list of X7 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more