The BMW X7: It's a Big One

BMW finally decided to enter the full-size SUV market with the new X7. Like other full-size vehicles, this one features three rows of seats and plenty of cargo room. It also comes with the quality and fine design that people expect from the car maker.

In building the X7, the car manufacturer decided to use the same platform as it did for the X5, but the X7’s platform is more stretched out. The X7 is 9.0 inches longer than the X5. Its wheelbase is also 5.1 inches bigger. This means that it’s slightly larger than its closest rival, which is made by Mercedes. BMW built the X7 to seat seven people. However, car buyers can opt for a version that has captain chairs in the second row, and this decreases seating to 6 people. For those who don’t need the extra space, the option is definitely worth it since these chairs are super cushy and come with amenities like plush headrests and power adjustments.

The SUV’s exterior features a large kidney grille and a squared off rear-end, ensuring that it exhibits the car maker’s classic styling. BMW is a vehicle manufacturer that doesn’t shy away from using high-end materials, such as leather, and these are included in the X7. The interior design is also well done.

BMW will be offering car buyers two versions of the X7. The first version is the six-cylinder xDrive40i while the second one is an eight-cylinder xDrive50i. Both options come with all-wheel drive. The six-cylinder SUV is expected to get 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. Those who upgrade to the eight-cylinder engine will enjoy 456 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The only available transmission is an eight-speed automatic. According to reviewers, BMW will probably add a plug-in hybrid to the mix. Both X7 trim levels are able to tow up to 7,500 pounds when equipped to do so.

Standard features include air springs and adaptive dampers. The vehicle also comes with different driving modes that change the ride height as well as the vehicle’s powertrain tuning. If the driver decides to go with the Sport mode, then this changes the SUV’s all-wheel-drive system to be more rear focused. Buyers can upgrade to a Dynamic Handling package, which comes with an electronically powered rear differential, upgraded brakes and rear-wheel steering. BMW decided to equip the vehicle with 21-inch wheels, but optional 22-inch wheels are an available upgrade.

Those who choose to buy BMW’s full-size SUV will have one of the most luxurious vehicles available today. The vehicle manufacturer doesn’t cut corners when it comes to technology or materials, so choosing the BMW X7 is a good move for anyone who can afford it.