The BMW X7 is the company's newest and largest SUV yet. First confirmed in 2014, the X7 arrived in 2018 as BMW's flagship hauler. It slots above the popular X5 and competes against the Mercedes-Benz GLS, the Cadillac Escalade, and the Land Rover Range Rover. The X7 joins six other SUVs to complete a crossover lineup that ranges from subcompact to full-size models.

When BMW joined the SUV market with the X5 back in 1999, little did we know that the German manufacturer will become such an important player in this segment. But in a little more than a decade, the Bavarian brand has launched no fewer than four different crossovers. Come 2018, and a flagship X7 joins the market to allow BMW to enter the full-size market. The X7 is the fifth BMW to be produced in the company's U.S. facility in Spartanburg, South Carolina, joining the X3, X4, X5, and X6.

Continue reading to learn more about the upcoming BMW X7.

2019 BMW X7

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2019 BMW X7
  • Engine/Motor: inline-6
  • Horsepower: 335 @ 5500
  • Torque: 330 @ 5200
  • Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

2019 BMW X7 Exterior

- Takes from the X5 - Massive stance - Slim headlamps - Standard LED lights - Biggest grille on a BMW - Utilitarian profile - Boxy rear end - Optional 22-inch wheels

Not surprisingly, the X7 borrows many design cues from the X5. However, the X7 has plenty of features that make it stand out, and you don't even have to look close to find them. What's more, it's shaped a bit differently. Because it's taller, it seems a bit narrower.

Moving onto the headlamps, they're fitted with the same LED layout as the X5's, but the overall shape is different. Not only slimmer, but they also run into the kidney grille frame, giving the front fascia a wider look. The bumper is really massive and boasts large outlets at the corners. A thinner intake runs just above the apron, complemented by a chrome tripe that runs upward into the side vents.

That's because it has beefier side skirts fitted with steps that resemble those seen on trucks, while the beltline is simple and barely raises toward the rear. Combined with the taller side windows and the big mirror caps, the sills give the X7's profile a massive look. The X7 also features longer rear doors, a design that permits easier entry and exit for second- and third-row passengers.

The rear section differs from the X5 too. While you'd expect a bigger SUV to have larger taillights, it's actually the other way around. Just like the headlamps, the rear lights are slimmer and don't extend as much into the fenders. The rear end is carefully broken up by horizontal lines, especially the chrome trim between the taillights, the tailgate split below, and the massive bumper. The tailgate looks a lot like the X5's, but the remaining rear fascia has a simpler, utilitarian design.

Naturally, the X7 rides on large wheels, with the options list including rims that are as big as 22 inches in diameter. The Adaptive Full LED lights with Automatic High Beams are included as standard equipment, but you can get the cool Laserlight lamps by selecting the Executive Package.

The color palette includes six hues at launch. There's the non-metallic Alpine White and metallic paints in Carbon Black with M Sport Package, Black Sapphire, Mineral White, Arctic Grey, and Vermont Bronze. Three more colors will be introduced as of April 2019, including Jet Black, Dark Graphite, and Phytonic Blue.

In case you're wondering how big is the X7, it measures a whopping 203.3 inches in length. It's also 78.7 inches wide and 71.1 inches tall, while the wheelbase measures 122.2 inches. Interestingly enough, the flagship SUV is actually 0.2 inches narrower than its smaller sibling. Its wheelbase, on the other hand, is five inches longer.

Compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLS and the Cadillac Escalade, the X7 is almost two and one inches longer, respectively. I'm using the standard Escalade here, as the long-wheelbase ESV model is notably longer at 224.3 inches in length.

Overall, the X7 looks impressively massive, and it's imposing enough to give the Escalade and the GLS a run for their money.

2019 BMW X7 exterior dimensions

X7 xDr40i

X7 xDr50i

Length inches

203.3

203.3

Width inches

78.7

78.7

Height inches

71.1

71.1

Width including mirrors inches

87.3

87.3

Wheelbase inches

122.2

122.2

Ground clearance inches

8.7

8.7

Turning radius feet

21.4

21.4

Approach angle front degrees

23.1

23.1

Departure angle rear degrees

20.5

20.5

Ramp angle degrees

17.1

17.1


2019 BMW X7 Interior

- Identical to the X5 - Standard three-row layout - Latest infotainment system - Fine leather options - Load of packages - State-of-the-art tech - Big screens - Rear-seat entertainment - Spacious trunk - Over-the-air updates

This is a bit disappointing in my book, but the fact that the X5 was redesigned recently saves the day. Fortunately, the entire cabin looks modern, starting with the clean structures of the dashboard and the way it flows smoothly into the door panels. The electroplated accents give the dash an exquisite look.

The center console is also identical to the X5. The iDrive Controller, the newly designed gear selector, the start/stop button, the Driving Experience Control switches, electronic parking brake switch, and controls for the air suspension and optional off-road modes are all grouped together here in a modern looking fashion.

Just like the X5, the X7 is packed with fine materials, even in the least expensive trim. The xDrive40i model, for instance, comes standard with black SensaTec or a choice of nine premium Vernasca and Extended Merino Leathers. The more expensive xDrive50i features standard Vernasca leather interior in black, Canberra Beige, Coffee or Cognac, with the option to upgrade to an Extended Merino Leather interior in black, Ivory White, Coffee or Tartufo.

A two-tone Ivory White/Navy Blue Full Leather Merino interior, with a Navy Blue leather dashboard and a Navy Blue Alcantara headliner can be specified for both models if you pay the extra fee. You can also further enhance the cabin with options such as a leather dashboard, glass controls for the start/stop button, gear shift lever, iDrive Controller and radio volume knob, and a Panoramic Sky Lounge LED roof.

It basically displays a starlit sky, just like the Rolls-Royce Phantom. Given that Rolls-Royce is owned by the BMW Group, I wouldn't be surprised if the Germans borrowed the technology from the British firm.

BMW also offers a Cold Weather Package that includes a five-zone automatic climate control system, heated front and rear seats, and heated front seat armrests and steering wheel. Purchase the Premium Package, and you'll get soft-close automatic doors, rear electric side window shades, heated and cooled cup holders, a heads-up display, and gesture control. The remote engine start feature is also optional.

Tech-wise, the X7 comes with BMW's new Live Cockpit Professional infotainment system. It brings together a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch display on the center stack, new haptic controls for the iDrive controller, and a tablet-like touch surface. The instrument cluster is similar to the X5 and the Z4. Instead of the traditional gauges, the screen displays the speedo and the rev counter to the outer edges as geometric bands. This design opens up spaced in the middle of the screen for navigation and extra information.

The menus have been optimized too. You can create multiple pages for easier access with a simple swipe across the screen.

Like in any modern premium vehicle, you have access to intelligent connectivity capabilities through apps for news, weather, office, and online search. There's also Intelligent Emergency Call, which automatically calls for assistance in the event of an emergency.

Opt for the Connected Package Professional, and you'll also get Remote Services, Concierge Services, On-Street Parking Information, and Real-Time Traffic Information for the first four years of ownership. You can also download various digital services individually as they become available or renew existing services.

Both wireless charging and WiFi hotspot are standard on every trim. For rear-seat entertainment, BMW offers a separate system that includes a pair of 10.2-inch full-HD touchscreen displays, a Blu-ray-compatible DVD player, an HDMI socket, and two headphone jacks. Say goodbye to those long and boring trips as a rear-seat passenger!

Speaking of which, the X7 was designed to carry up to seven people. If you want more comfort for your second-row passengers, you can go with the optional captain's chairs for this area. This reduces hauling capacity to six people, but those sitting in the second row will benefit from the same range of adjustments as the seats up front. They also feature integrated armrests and comfort cushions.

For added practicality, the second-row seats slide front and rear by 5.7 inches, while the backrests of the seats in the second and third rows can be folded down and raised electrically. This can be done from inside the vehicle or from the cargo area.

This increases to a maximum 90.4 cubic feet when the backrests of the standard second-row bench seat and third-row seats are folded flat.

How does it compare with its main rivals? Well, it definitely raises above the dated Mercedes-Benz GLS, which offers only 24 cubic feet with the third-row folded flat and 81.2 cubic feet when the second row hits the floor. On the other hand, it's not as roomy as the Cadillac Escalade, rated at 51.6 and 94.2 cubic feet, respectively.

Loading stuff in the trunk is easier thanks to the standard air suspension that allows the vehicle to be lowered. The two-section split tailgate with electric opening will also help you avoid any back pains from lifting heavy bags.

The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant that just debuted in the 3 Series also made it in the X7. The digital character responds to the prompt "Hey BMW" and can be used to find out information, make phone calls, and so on by speaking with it. It probably won't be able to satisfy all your needs at first, but BMW says the range of functions and skills available will be constantly expanded as part of regular updates.

Speaking of updates, the new Remote Software Upgrade will keep the vehicle up to date with the latest software. All updates can be loaded over the air, similar to smartphones, via the BMW Connected app when connected to a Wi-Fi network or imported directly via the built-in SIM card.

Finally, the new BMW Digital Key allows the X7 to be locked and unlocked from a compatible smartphone, removing the need for a conventional car key. This is done via Near Field Communication (NFC) technology by holding the smartphone up to the door handle. Once inside, the engine can be started as soon as the phone has been placed in the wireless charging or smartphone tray.

2019 BMW X7 interior dimensions

X7 xDr40i

X7 xDr50i

Shoulder width front inches

60.0

60.0

Shoulder room 2nd row inches

58.1

58.1

Shoulder room 3rd row Inches

47.9

47.9

Legroom front inches

39.8

39.8

Legroom 2nd row inches

37.6

37.6

Legroom 3rd row inches

33.3

33.3

Headroom front inches

41.9

41.9

Headroom 2nd row inches

39.9

39.9

Headroom 3rd row inches

36.6

36.6

Trunk volume (SAE) ft³

48.6 – 90.4

48.6 – 90.4


2019 BMW X7 Drivetrain

- 3.0-liter six-cylinder with 335 hp - 4.4-liter V-8 with 456 hp - Two diesels in Europe - M50d with 561 pound-feet - Revised eight-speed transmission - All-wheel drive - Rear-wheel steering - Tow hitch rated at 7,500 pounds

BMW offers the X7 with the same gasoline engines as the X5, albeit with slightly revised power rating. In the U.S., it's the xDrive40i model that sits at the bottom of the range. It will take you 5.8 seconds to hit 60 mph in this SUV, which isn't bad given the size and curb weight. Top speed is rated at 152 mph.

Need more power? Than go for the xDrive50i variant. As you might have already guess, this SUV hides a twin-turbo, 4.4-liter V-8 under the hood. The engine features new heat plates, a revised ignition system, and an auto start/stop function, and cranks out 456 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of twist. Floor the gas pedal and it will take you from zero to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds. Top speed is limited at the familiar 155-mph mark.

In Europe, BMW also offers a couple of diesel engines. The base model is called the xDrive30d and draws juice from a 3.0-liter six-cylinder that generates 261 horsepower and 457 pound-feet of torque. It needs seven seconds to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph, to go with a top speed of 141 mph.

The second diesel-powered model, the M50d, has the same engine under the hood, but with upgraded internals and more oomph. This version delivers 394 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of twist and slashes the 0 to 62 mph sprint to only 5.4 clicks. The M50d won't stop until it hits a top speed of 155 mph.

The gearbox has a wider ratio spread and new control electronics in the X7, mainly for improved efficiency. Additionally, new torsion dampers reduce rotational forces and converter slip for improved shift comfort.

The transmission works in conjunction with the vehicle's intelligent connectivity to adapt its shift strategy to the route and driving situation. By working with the navigation system, it "sees" the road ahead and combines this data with information from the Active Cruise Control system’s radar sensor. When approaching a vehicle ahead or approaching a downhill section, the transmission will shift down early in order to use engine braking to maintain speed or slow down.

All the power travels to the wheels through BMW's latest generation of the xDrive AWD system. Now able to split torque between the front and rear axles with greater precision and speed, it's also able to direct all the power to the rear wheels when AWD is not required.

As in other Bimmers, the xDrive system offers a rear-biased set-up for when you're in the mood to floor the gas pedal for spirited driving. The optional electronically controlled rear M Sport differential makes the X7 even more suitable for dynamic driving, but it's only available for the xDrive50i version. By limiting equalization of the rotational speeds of the inside and outside wheels through corners, the differential optimizes the transfer of power to the road in all driving situations.

Finally, the X7 features four-wheel steering, a system that turns the rear wheels either in the same direction as the front, to enhance stability in high-speed maneuvers, or in the opposite direction, to improve low-speed agility by decreasing the turning radius.

Not just fast and comfortable, the X7 is also a good hauler. That's also on par with the Mercedes-Benz GLS, but below the towing capacity of the Cadillac Escalade, which can haul 8,300 pounds.

2019 BMW X7 - specifications

X7 xDr40i

X7 xDr50i

Engine type

B58

N63

Induction

Turbocharged

Turbocharged

Cylinders

6

8

Valves per cylinder

4

4

Stroke mm

94.6

88.3

Bore mm

82.0

82.0

Displacement cm³

2,998

4,395

Compression rate :1

11.0

10.5

Engine power hp

335

456

at rpm 1/min

5,500 – 6,500

5,250 – 6,000

Engine torque ft. lbs.

330

479

at rpm 1/min

1,500 – 5,200

1,500 – 4,750

Transmission type

8HP51

8HP76

Transmission type

automatic

automatic

Curb weight lbs.

5,370

5,617

Gross vehicle weight lbs.

6,989

7,253

Payload lbs.

1,202

1,202

Tow capacity with 3rd party hitch lbs.

5,950

5,950

Tow capacity with factory hitch lbs.

7,500

7,500

0-60 mph seconds

5.8

5.2

Top speed mph

130

130


2019 BMW X7 Chassis and Suspension

- Wishbone and four-link setup - Self-leveling air suspension - Dynamic Stability Control - Variable ride height - Optional active steering - Optional M Sport brakes

The X7 rides on the popular suspension setup with a double wishbone at the front and a five-link configuration to the rear.

The latter also features automatic self-leveling which not only further improves ride comfort, but also allows electronic adjustment of the vehicle's ride height. The air supply is controlled individually for each wheel using an electrically driven compressor, so you can balance out an unevenly loaded vehicle.

The air suspension also works in conjunction with the Dynamic Stability Control system. Thus the SUV's load is registered by its sensors and can be factored into braking calculations. When the Sport driving mode is engaged, or speed exceeds 85 mph, its ride height is automatically lowered by 0.8 inches.

The X7 can be raised in two stages up to a maximum of 1.6 inches above the standard setting. Another button in the luggage compartment activates a loading mode that lowers the vehicle by 1.6 inches. As a cool feature the ride height can be set with the engine switched off by using the optional BMW Display Key. This enables you to load heavy items in the trunk without turning the ignition on.

More features come with the Dynamic Handling Package. Available for both trims, the bundle includes Active Comfort Drive with road preview, Integral Active Steering, M Sport Brakes and, on the xDrive50i, the M Sport rear Differential. This package further enhances agility and dynamic driving. The Active Comfort Drive with road preview works with the two-axle air suspension and an active roll-stabilization system to improve agility and directional stability when turning into corners, as we as to optimize traction when accelerating out of them.

2019 BMW X7 Driving Assist and Safety Features

Standard features on this SUV include a healthy list of systems, such as Active Protection and Active Driving Assistant including Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Collision Warning, Frontal Collision Warning and Pedestrian Warning with City Collision Mitigation, Cross Traffic Alert Rear, and Speed Limit Information.

If you buy the xDrive50i model, you get all of the above plus Parking Assistant Plus, which adds Top View, Panorama View, and 3D View. The xDrive50i also includes Active Driving Assistant Professional with Active Lane Keeping Assistant and Extended Traffic Jam Assistant for limited access highways.

The Driving Assistant Professional package brings together the Extended Traffic Jam Assist for limited access highways as well as the Lane Keeping Assistant with Active Side-Collision protection. Extended Traffic Jam Assist provides assistance in stop-and-go traffic and uses a driver-facing camera located in the digital instrument cluster to monitor the driver’s eye and nose position to determine if they are monitoring the road ahead. As long as you're watching the road ahead, the need to place your hands on the steering wheel every 30-50 seconds is not required.

The bundle also includes Evasion Aid, a system that can help avoid collisions with vehicle or pedestrians that appear suddenly in your path. The system assists with steering inputs to direct the vehicle into a clear lane as soon as a potential crash is detected.

Also part of the optional Driving Assistant Professional package, Emergency Stop Assistant is a new development in the field of safety systems. Designed to be used in case of medical emergency, it's activated by pulling the parking brake switch. When this happens, the vehicle analyzes the driving situation and the surroundings and brings the SUV to a halt at the edge of the road. It also activates the hazard warning lights and the Intelligent Emergency Call function automatically notifies the BMW Assist call center so the emergency services can be alerted.

These are detected by ultrasonic sensors mounted at the front and rear of the SUV. Activated at the push of a button on the center console, the system takes care of the acceleration, braking, steering and gear changes necessary to maneuver into the space. While it's standard on the xDrive50i, the system is optional for the xDrive40i.

The X7 also features Back-Up Assistant, a system that provides assistance when leaving a parking space or entering a confined area. It takes over steering to maneuver the SUV and can reverse the vehicle for a distance of up to 50 yards. You still have to operate the acceleration and brakes, as well as monitor the surrounding area.

2019 BMW X7 Prices

BMW's largest SUV yet is also the most expensive. Pricing for the base xDrive40i trim starts from $73,900, not including the $995 destination fee. That's a $13,000 premium over the X5. The V-8-powered xDrive50i version retails from $92,600 plus destination. The X7 is the first Bimmer you can pre-order online.

In the United Kingdom, the xDrive40i costs £74,155 before options. If you fancy diesel powerplants, you can purchase the xDrive30d for £72,155 before options. The performance-oriented M50d model comes in at £87,240.

2019 BMW X7 Competition

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Although it's been often compared to the X5 in the past, the GLS is actually too big for what BMW and Audi have to offer right now. This finally came to end now that the X7 hit dealerships to tackle one of the largest Mercs available. Redesigned in 2012, when it was also received an "S" next to its more familiar "GL" badge, the GLS not only looks sportier than its predecessor, but its bigger, more luxurious, and employs more tech gadgets. Among the extra standard features includes several driver assist technologies, nine airbags, and the self-leveling AirMatic suspension. The engine lineup is pretty diverse compared to the Cadillac Escalade, including both diesel and gasoline choices. The 350d model features a 3.0-liter V-6 diesel rated at 256 horsepower and 457 pound-feet, while the gasoline GLS450 comes with a 3.0-liter V-6 that's good for 362 horses and 369 pound-feet. The GLS500 (550 in the U.S.) gets its juice from the larger, 4.7-liter V-8 that generates 429 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of twist. U.S. pricing starts from $69,550. The current GLS is a bit dated, but the good news is that a new-generation model is just around the corner.

Read our full review on the Mercedes-Benz GLS.

Cadillac Escalade

Given the X7 is a full-size SUV, the Escalade is one of its most important foes in the United States. With its refreshed look, the Escalade take thes cake in terms of aesthetics, but falls well short of the Bimmer in terms of driving experience. Like All BMW models -- even the big boys -- the X7 was designed to deliver both luxury and performance, and the lumbering Caddy just can't deliver the goods in this department. Now, in terms of base power, the Escalade has no issues, thanks to a 6.2-liter powerhouse that lays down 420 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque. This is enough to get the large luxo-barge up to 60 mph in under seven seconds, matching the base X7's sprint. Unfortunately, GM likes to limit its non-performance models to a 107-mph top speed, so the Escalade doesn't hang in terms of top speed. Pricing starts from $73,395.

Find out more about the Cadillac Escalade.

Conclusion

The BMW X7 is long overdue, but I can understand the Germans not being in a hurry with their largest SUV yet. Competing against the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLS, Range Rover, and the Cadillac Escalade requires certain credentials, and although BMW is a well established player in the luxury market, it steps into a brand-new dimension with the X7. But needless to say, the large hauler has what it takes to not only give its competitors a run for their money, but trump them in just about every department. Sure, it's not as roomy as the Escalade and doesn't offer an extra long version, but it has no rival when it comes to performance, dynamics, technology, and connectivity. Until Mercedes-Benz launches the next-generation GLS, the BMW X7 will remain the single most advanced SUV of its kind!

Further reading

Read our full review on the 2018 BMW X5.

Read our full speculative review on the 2019 BMW X5 M.

Read our full review on the 2017 BMW Concept X7 iPerformance.

Update History

Updated 12/18/2017: Our spy photographers caught the upcoming BMW X7 out for a new testing session, and it is pretty obvious that the prototype started to drop some of the camouflage.

Updated 04/25/2017: Our spy photographers spotted the upcoming X7 out for a new testing session around Nurburgring.

BMW X7 on the Nurburgring

Driving Review