Our Opinion - 2026 BMW X7 Review The BMW X7 is an SUV that fits the brand’s core values. It can hold seven people. It features high-quality materials, air suspension as standard, and numerous other advanced technologies necessary to compete in the full-size luxury SUV market. This shows that the X7 is serious about its job. However, BMW ensured that the X7 retained more than a hint of the brand’s inspiring vigor and lively driving, so it didn’t stray too far off track. The M60i’s normal 375-hp turbocharged straight-six is more than enough, but the 523-hp turbocharged V-8 makes things go faster. You can also opt for the 630-hp twin-turbo V-8 or the high-end Alpina XB7 trim if you have a substantial budget. While the X7 delivers strong performance, it lags behind competitors such as the Cadillac Escalade and Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class in one key area: interior space. Both the Escalade and the GLS offer greater cargo capacity and more third-row legroom. What's New? The annoying motion control feature in the infotainment system and the Ametrin Red Metallic paint on the outside are no longer available. If not, the X7 will continue as it is. Pros and Cons Pros It’s fun to drive, regardless of its size. Strong and useful base engine. Fully loaded with tech. Cons Rivals have more space. It’s challenging to reach the third row. In an embarrassing way. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The base X7 xDrive40i features a powerful, overachieving 375-horsepower turbocharged inline-six engine. The sporty M60i is powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine that produces 523 horsepower. The V-8 engine in the Alpina XB7 has been modified to produce 630 horsepower specially. All three have an eight-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive. At the factory, all X7s feature active anti-roll bars and air suspension with adaptive dampers designed to prevent body roll during turns. By default, the M60i features a sportier suspension setup, and it also comes equipped with rear-axle steering, which further enhances handling. Remarkably lightweight for a large SUV, the X7 offers a balanced feel and is easy to handle. For the first time, BMW has huge 23-inch wheels, but the X7 doesn’t handle well on these bigger wheels when the road is cracked or broken up. The smallest wheels on the X7 are 21 inches across. Safety Each X7 comes with a number of standard driver-assistance systems as well as some more advanced choices. The following are important safety features: Emergency brakes that work independently and a regular forward crash warning. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert come standard. Normal warning for leaving your lane. Internal and External Cargo Capacity The X7’s interior is dominated by a large digital screen that is curved in certain areas. The panel has a 14.9-inch touchscreen for entertainment and a 12.3-inch set of gauges for the driver. The interior features numerous luxurious amenities, including a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable steering, heated front seats, and ambient lighting. We didn’t like how the captain’s chair in the second row, which was driven by electricity, moved slowly when we tried to move people into and out of the third row. For longer trips, the back seats are also too small for one person. However, the X7’s spacious trunk and numerous storage compartments inside won’t leave people disappointed. We were able to store 33 carry-on bags, even though we could only fit three behind the third row when all the back seats were folded down. Fuel Economy and Actual MPG The xDrive40i model, equipped with the base inline-six engine, achieves 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, which is commendable for a car in this class. As expected, the M60i’s V-8 engine uses more gas. The vehicle is rated at 16 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. Impressively, the M60i achieved 23 mpg during our 75-mph highway fuel economy test. Infotainment and Connectivity In the X7, iDrive’s 14.9-inch touchscreen is integrated into a curved glass panel positioned atop the dashboard. A big rotary knob on the center panel can also be used to control the system. Every X7 comes with BMW’s Digital Key, which enables users to remotely control the car’s features using a smartphone app and a Wi-Fi hotspot (subscription required). The Premium version features a stronger Harman/Kardon stereo, and music lovers can opt for a Bowers & Wilkins system that is dedicated solely to playing music. Range, Charging, and Battery Life We tested an xDrive40i, which went from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, while the V-8-powered M60i completed the same sprint in just 3.8 seconds. This rocket is the real deal. Towing and Payload Capacity In the 2026 X7, BMW states that the trailer hitch included with the car can tow up to 7,500 pounds. Price and How to Choose The 2026 BMW X7 is expected to cost anywhere from $86,175 to $157,175, depending on the chosen options and specifications. Although the M60i and Alpina XB7 models are more appealing, the standard xDrive40i remains a lot of fun. It has a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, 21-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and other nice features. Also, for less money than either of the premium options, you can still get the M Sport Professional Package with the M Sport Exhaust System, M Sport Brakes, Illuminated Kidney Grille, and more, as well as a high-end Bowers and Wilkins sound system.
