Even if the BMW X7’s facelift is unbearably ugly, the remainder of this SUV’s improvements for the 2023 model year more than make up for its poor appearance. The full-size X7 is more alluring than ever thanks to new mild-hybrid engines, a stylish interior, and the most advanced multimedia and active safety technology. Just a little bit more difficult to look at.
Of course, style is a personal preference, and I’ll concede that certain 2023 X7 iterations are more aesthetically pleasing than others. Only the X7 xDrive40i with the M Sport pack and the more potent X7 M60i have the peculiar droopy black goth fangs, though all models feature BMW’s new split headlight design. Stick with a regular xDrive40i Luxury, like the SUV seen above, if you want to do yourself a favor. It’s cleaner, but it’s still weird.
New BMW X7 for 2023
Even without taking into account individual design preferences, I would choose the X7 xDrive40i as BMW anticipates the majority of consumers will. A brand-new 3.0-liter turbocharged straight-6 engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid assist powers the xDrive40i and produces 398 pound-feet of torque and 380 horsepower. The basic X7 is expected to reach 60 mph in less than 6 seconds, according to BMW, which feels cautious. The 3.0-liter engine never seems slow or weak because to its robust, rapid torque delivery. The excellent eight-speed automatic gearbox deserves praise as well for operating well in the background.
The straight-six engine is so impressive that the X7 M60i really feels like excess. Don’t get me wrong, I adore a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, and this one produces 530 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque while utilising mild hybrid 48-volt technology. Even with its somewhat harsher suspension tuning, active rear differential, standard variable-ratio steering, and — because why not? — launch control, the M60i doesn’t much alter the X7’s general on-road character. It just seems like power for the sake of power.
No matter what powertrain is in the X7, the adaptive air suspension does a fantastic job of maintaining the behemoth’s balance. Driving the X7 is as smooth and pleasurable as spreading room-temperature butter on toast, even with enormous 23-inch wheels. This is the ideal tuning for a large, luxurious SUV.
All the new driver-assistance technologies that BMW debuted on the 2023 7 Series are included in the X7, including the useful hands-free Highway Assistant with lane-changing capabilities that I originally drove in an electric i7 prototype. Additionally, the X7 will add the 7 Series’ remote control smartphone integration later this year. BMW’s upgraded automated parking technologies are also accessible. Have a small garage or a narrow driveway? This will make controlling the X7 simple.
Don’t Focus on Its Face
Trailer Assist is one X7-only function that is brand-new to BMW but not to the auto industry as a whole. The iDrive knob may be used to regulate the direction of travel when a trailer is connected to the X7, eliminating the need for steering guessing. This technology is a blessing if you’re not an expert when it comes to towing because it is similar to what Ford offers on its F-150 truck.
The eighth-generation software for BMW is related to the iDrive controller and is gradually making its way throughout the company’s portfolio. iDrive 8 is located on a huge, curved display that occupies two-thirds of the dashboard and has a 14.9-inch infotainment screen in addition to a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Although iDrive 8 gets simpler the more I use it, there is still a significant learning curve at first. If you like goofy gesture controls, BMW has them built in. Additionally, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can connect wirelessly, which is fantastic.
Other interior changes to the X7 include shorter air vents, a new electronic gear selector, standard vegan upholstery, and an illuminated ambient light bar on the right side of the dash. These are all quite modest changes. Although the third row is somewhat cramped, adults can squeeze back there in a hurry without much fuss. The optional second-row captain’s seats are incredibly comfortable and can be folded out of the way.
New starting price for the 2023 BMW X7
The starting price for the 2023 BMW X7 is $78,845 for the xDrive40i, plus $995 for delivery. The X7 M60i with a V8 engine costs a staggering $104,095, and while it comes with a lot more standard equipment, I think the xDrive40i is the better option. Even with 23-inch wheels, better leather, and every possible premium, driver-assistance, and comfort option, the out-the-door cost of one can be kept around $60,000. This is undoubtedly the wiser purchase, unless you actually require the V8’s power (which you don’t).
All things considered, the 2023 X7 is as fantastic as it has ever been and competes fiercely with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and Land Rover Range Rover that are well-rounded alternatives. The X7 doesn’t look nearly as beautiful as it once did, which is one of BMW’s biggest drawbacks. However, there is a plethora of interior beauty to appreciate if your eyes can see past that odd design.
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