When it comes to luxury SUVs, the BMW X7 stands as a shining example of how BMW blends engineering brilliance with modern luxury. This is not just another SUV; it’s a flagship model designed to deliver an exceptional driving experience for those who value comfort, technology, and performance.
After nearly a year of ownership, I can confidently say the X7 has lived up to its reputation and has become an integral part of our family’s travel adventures. However, like any machine, it has its quirks, and no review would be complete without addressing the highs and lows.
In addition to being my wife’s daily driver, we’ve taken our 2024 BMW X7 xDrive40i on multiple road trips spanning several states, encountering everything from wide-open highways to congested urban streets and dirt roads. It has been a joy to drive (and ride in), offering a seamless blend of capability and sophistication that makes even the longest journeys feel effortless. Yet, owning a vehicle like this has unique surprises—some delightful and others expensive. Let’s dive into the details.
Features
The BMW X7 redefines the luxury SUV segment with features that leave little to be desired, from cutting-edge technology to thoughtful design elements.
One of the standout packages is the Driving Assistance Pro Package, a true lifesaver (and sanity-saver) on our long road trips. The adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality takes the stress out of long hours behind the wheel, effortlessly managing speed and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, even in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
Driving Assist Plus elevates the experience further by enabling hands-free driving on select highways. It provides a new level of convenience and reduces fatigue during extended journeys. This system feels intuitive and seamless, delivering a smooth, autonomous experience.
The M Sport Package adds a sporty edge to the X7 that I genuinely appreciate. The package includes 22-inch wheels, Shadowline exterior trim, and an illuminated kidney grille that makes the car instantly recognizable at night. Performance enthusiasts will also appreciate the M Sport brakes with blue calipers and the M Sport exhaust system, which give the X7 a visual and audible commanding presence. Inside, the Alcantara headliner is a subtle but luxurious touch that further elevates the cabin’s ambiance.
Speaking of the cabin, it’s hard not to fall in love with the second-row captain’s chairs, which offer unmatched comfort for passengers. These chairs feel like business-class airline seats, with ample legroom and easy adjustability. Small but thoughtful touches like motorized rear window shades and a third-row sunroof make the interior feel like a sanctuary, especially on long drives. And who could forget the quirky yet delightful BMW Cuddle Pillows? These soft, plush headrest accessories are included and quite comfy.
Tech enthusiasts will find plenty to love, too. The BMW Digital Key Plus lets me unlock and start the car and check the exterior cameras with my smartphone. I hardly ever take my key with me. At the same time, the augmented reality graphics on the instrument panel provide navigation guidance in an engaging, futuristic way. The self-parking feature has been handy, and the ability to move the car using my phone remotely still feels like something out 90’s Bond movie.
Performance
Our BMW X7 xDrive40i is powered by a turbocharged inline-six engine paired with a mild-hybrid system, producing 375 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. These numbers translate into an SUV that is deceptively quick for its size. Acceleration is smooth and effortless, whether merging onto highways or passing slower traffic, and the engine never feels overworked, even with a fully loaded cabin.
For those seeking even more power, the M60i version offers a twin-turbocharged V8 engine, delivering a jaw-dropping 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, transforming the X7 into a high-performance beast. For those craving the ultimate expression of luxury and performance, the Alpina XB7 takes things to another level, boasting a finely tuned twin-turbo V8 with 631 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, alongside exclusive Alpina styling and suspension enhancements. This version elevates the X7 even more, blending unparalleled power with a uniquely refined driving experience.
One of the standout features of the X7’s performance is BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which delivers exceptional grip and stability in all driving conditions. We encountered a mix of weather on our road trips—rain-soaked highways, gravel incline paths, and even some light snow—and the X7 confidently handled it. The adaptive air suspension also deserves special mention; it adjusts based on the selected driving mode. It provides a plush ride in Comfort mode and a lower, firmer, and more engaging experience in Sport mode. Being able to raise the ride height was also helpful during recent flooding.
However, the X7’s performance-oriented setup does come with some drawbacks. After just 11,000 miles, the rear 22-inch tires needed replacement. These soft summer tires, part of the M Sport package, are designed for maximum grip and performance, but their treadwear expectancy is short. While I appreciated their road-holding capabilities, the unexpected replacement cost was a bit of a sting.
Overall Experience
Practicality and Long-Term Use
One of the aspects I love most about the BMW X7 is how seamlessly it fits into our lifestyle. With a family of three, the X7’s spacious interior is more than enough for daily errands and long road trips. The second-row captain’s chairs make long journeys more comfortable for passengers, while the third-row seats add an extra layer of versatility.
Another highlight is the cargo space. With the third row folded down, the BMW X7 offers plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or even larger items like furniture. The adjustable air suspension makes loading and unloading easier by lowering the rear of the vehicle at the push of a button—a feature I didn’t know I needed until I used it.
Another highlight is how easy it is to custom order the vehicle. Assembled in BMW’s plant in South Carolina, an X7 can arrive just three weeks after placing the order, a testament to BMW’s efficient manufacturing and delivery process.
Issues and Ownership Challenges
No vehicle is perfect, and the BMW X7 is no exception. A vague “drivetrain issue” warning appeared on the dashboard five months into ownership. A visit to the dealership revealed that a coolant hose had not been adequately connected at the factory. While the repair was covered under warranty, it required three days in the shop and would have cost over $8,000 if it hadn’t been under warranty. For a vehicle of this caliber, this type of oversight was disappointing.
Another unexpected expense was replacing the tires mentioned above at 11,000 miles. While I understand that performance-oriented tires like the ones included with the M Sport package are not designed for longevity, prospective buyers should factor this into their budget.
Comparison to the Competition
Before deciding on the BMW X7, I considered several other luxury SUVs, including the Range Rover Sport and the Mercedes-Benz GLS. Having owned a 2019 Range Rover Sport HSE, I can confidently say the X7 offers a more engaging driving experience. The Range Rover excels in sheer opulence and off-road capability, but the X7’s sharper handling and superior technology make it a better all-around vehicle for our needs.
I also explored American options like the GMC Yukon Denali and Lincoln Navigator. While both offer impressive interiors and abundant space, their driving dynamics are underwhelming. They lacked the precision and engagement that make driving enjoyable. It’s almost like comparing a truck to a sports car. Additionally, the technology in these models didn’t quite match up. The infotainment systems felt clunky and less intuitive. I can’t say enough how fantastic the current generation of BMW’s iDrive infotainment system is.
Road Trip MVP
The BMW X7 truly shines on road trips. We’ve taken it on multiple cross-state journeys, and it has proven to be the ultimate road trip machine. The Driving Assistance Pro Package makes highway driving stress-free, while the soft-close doors and acoustic glass create a cabin environment so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Passengers in the second-row rave about the captain’s chairs and rear sunroof, and the built-in eSIM provides 5G WiFi, which has become a favorite.
The X7’s fuel efficiency is also commendable for its size. Thanks to the mild-hybrid system, we averaged just over 24 mpg on highway drives—a respectable figure for a three-row luxury SUV. The large fuel tank minimizes stops, cementing the BMW X7 as a long-distance travel champion.
Final Thoughts
The BMW X7 is a triumph of engineering and design, offering a luxurious, high-tech, and capable SUV that excels in nearly every category. From its cutting-edge technology and refined interior to its confident performance and road-trip-ready comfort, the X7 delivers an experience that few vehicles can match.
While there were some hiccups—a factory mistake with a coolant hose installation and the short lifespan of the performance tires—the X7’s many strengths have far outweighed these issues. Whether tackling daily commutes, family vacations, or lengthy road trips, the BMW X7 rises to the occasion.
I hope you found this review helpful. If you have any questions, connect with me on social media. And be sure to check out my other product reviews. Thanks for reading!