2026 BMW X7 Detailed Review

Overview

The 2026 BMW X7 is BMW’s answer to drivers who want everything the brand is known for—luxury, driving dynamics, and sharp design—but in a seven-passenger SUV. It’s not just a big BMW; it’s a statement that the brand can build something large without losing its soul.

The X7 blends high-end comfort with strong performance. Even in its standard form, it comes with air suspension, plush interior materials, and a wide range of features you’d expect in the luxury full-size SUV segment. But unlike some competitors that focus only on size and comfort, the X7 still feels like a BMW. That means accurate steering, lively handling, and engines that love to perform.

The lineup begins with the xDrive40i, powered by a turbocharged inline-six engine that produces 375 horsepower. Step up to the M60i, and you’ll find a 523-hp twin-turbo V8 that transforms this big SUV into something far sportier. For those with a nearly unlimited budget, there’s also the Alpina XB7, with an incredible 630-hp V8—making it one of the fastest three-row SUVs money can buy.

Where the X7 falls behind rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLS and Cadillac Escalade is in sheer size. The BMW’s third row and cargo space are a bit tighter, but for most families, it still does the job.

What’s New for 2026?

For 2026, BMW keeps changes minimal. The Ametrin Red Metallic paint option has been discontinued, and the gesture control system—a feature many owners found gimmicky—has been dropped from the infotainment system. Aside from those tweaks, the X7 carries on unchanged.

Pricing and Trims

The 2026 BMW X7 ranges in price from $87,875 to roughly $157,175 based on trim and options:

• xDrive40i – $87,875
• M60i – $115,075
• Alpina XB7 – $157,175

While the V8-powered models are tempting, the base xDrive40i remains an excellent choice. With its strong six-cylinder engine, panoramic sunroof, 21-inch wheels, and plenty of luxury features, it delivers plenty of SUV for the money. Choosing the Premium or M Sport packages adds extra flair—like upgraded brakes, sport exhaust, and even illuminated grille details—without sending the price into six-figure territory.

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Engine, Transmission, and Performance

BMW offers three distinct powertrains in the X7:

• xDrive40i: 375-hp turbocharged inline-six
• M60i: 523-hp twin-turbo V8
• Alpina XB7: 630-hp twin-turbo V8

All models have all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The air suspension is standard across the lineup, helping this large SUV deliver a comfortable ride while staying planted during cornering.

Performance numbers are impressive for such a big vehicle:

• xDrive40i: 0–60 mph in about 4.6 seconds
• M60i: 0–60 mph in just 3.8 seconds

Those numbers put the X7 in sports-car territory, which is remarkable for a seven-passenger luxury SUV weighing well over 5,000 pounds. Rear-axle steering is available (and standard on the M60i), making the big X7 more maneuverable in tight spaces and more stable at high speeds.

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Towing and Payload

For families who want to haul more than just people, the X7 is rated to tow up to 7,500 pounds when equipped with the factory trailer hitch. That means pulling boats, campers, or trailers is no problem.

Fuel Economy

The base six-cylinder X7 is surprisingly efficient for its size, rated at 20 mpg city / 24 mpg highway. The V8-powered M60i drops slightly to 16 mpg city / 20 mpg highway, though in real-world highway driving, it can manage up to 23 mpg. For such a powerful SUV, that’s a respectable figure.

Interior and Comfort

The cabin of the X7 feels distinctly high-end as soon as you step inside. The dashboard is dominated by a curved glass panel that combines a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen.

Standard features include:

• Heated front seats
• Panoramic sunroof
• Ambient interior lighting
• Power-adjustable steering wheel

Second-row captain’s chairs are available, though some buyers find that they move a bit slowly when trying to access the third row. Once in the third row, space is adequate for kids or short trips but can feel snug for adults on long drives.

Cargo space is usable but slightly less than what you’ll find in an Escalade or GLS. With all seats up, there’s enough for a few carry-ons. Fold the second and third rows, and the X7 opens up to swallow larger loads, with space for more than 30 suitcases in testing.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

One of the best features is still the iDrive infotainment system. The 14.9-inch touchscreen can be controlled by touch or the rotary dial on the console. Standard tech includes:

• Wi-Fi hotspot (subscription required)
• Wireless smartphone integration
• BMW Digital Key for remote vehicle control

For music lovers, the standard sound system can be upgraded to a Harman/Kardon setup or the Bowers & Wilkins 3D surround system, which transforms the cabin into a concert hall.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Numerous driver-assist systems are standard in the BMW X7, including:

• Forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• Lane-departure warning

Optional packages add advanced tools such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and semi-automated driving in traffic.

Warranty and Maintenance

BMW backs the X7 with competitive coverage:

• 4 years / 50,000 miles limited warranty
• 4 years / 50,000 miles powertrain warranty
• 3 years / 36,000 miles complimentary scheduled maintenance

That free maintenance period is longer than what Mercedes or Cadillac currently offers.