The quirky exterior of the 2023 BMW X7 hides the true beauty of the SUV.

The big three-row luxury SUV has more power and features, but you’ll probably have to get used to the new design.

Some love it and others hate it, but there’s no denying that BMW’s controversial styling is here to stay. The grilles get bigger and bigger, the headlights more and more unique with each new model, and yet sales remain strong. This time it’s the turn of the big X7 SUV for a makeover. The 2023 model has an updated look that should bring it in line with the next generation of the 7 Series sedan, and its new look is sure to divide opinion. Fortunately, the new X7 is distinguished not only by a revised front and rear design, but also by improved engines, a new interior and several new standard and optional features.

Enough said now! Let’s take a closer look at all the beauty this new acquisition from BMW has to offer:

The looks

The new X7 is a vast improvement over the previous model, which looked like an out of shape X5. With its lower-set square headlights and eyebrow-like daytime running lights, the new front end makes a much clearer statement. BMW is not the first automaker to use this inverted headlight optic. Predecessors such as the Jeep Cherokee and Nissan Juke have previously quickly dropped the design and abandoned it altogether. Nevertheless, we won’t be shocked if the X5 and X6 also get this look later.

The rear of the X7 is a sight to behold, with the new chrome bar and modified taillights providing a sleek look. New wheel designs were also introduced, including for the first time a huge 23-inch option. Those big boys are best avoided, however, because the 23-inch rims don’t do so well on big bumps. The 21 and 22 inches in that regard ride better and still fit the wheel well.

The drive

The X7 comes with a choice of a six-cylinder or a V-8 engine. Most buyers opt for the xDrive40i model with a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder, and this is the engine that received the most significant upgrades from BMW. It now gets 40 hp and 52 Nm of torque exrtra for a new total of 375 hp and 383 Nm of torque – surpassing the Mercedes Benz GLS450 in both categories.

A 48-volt hybrid system also adds extra torque, bringing the total to 398 Nm of torque. The twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 also comes with a 48-volt system, but power remains at 523 hp and 553 Nm of torque. Don’t be fooled by the new M60i model designation for the V-8, which takes the place of the previous M50i. BMW claims this new naming was done only to bring the gasoline engine trim levels in line with the electric cars offered with the new iX M60.

The powertrain upgrades did not change much about the engines. The V-8 is as fun as ever, with a snorting exhaust note and wonderful torque. 523 pedaling horsepower in a car this size appeals to everyone. But the six-in-line engine is so smooth and delicious that it is equally tempting. The six-cylinder is a smooth, quiet engine that is well suited to a luxury car. Moreover, the xDrive40i has enough power to carry anything you want. The combined fuel economy of the xDrive40i according to the EPA (Energy Performance Advisory) is 22 mpg, 4 mpg better than that of the M60i.

With its precise steering, great visibility and composite chassis, the X7 drives smaller than it looks. Although the Comfort setting of the standard air suspension gives quite a bit of “body-roll” during cornering, the X7 takes decent corners in the Sport setting – with an impressively high grip threshold and powerful brakes.

Interior design

However, the X7 is considerably more enjoyable when you sink into the comfortable seats and take a leisurely ride. The interior features high-quality materials and several new standard features, such as additional driver and front passenger seat adjustment options, a panoramic sunroof and four-zone climate control (five zones are available on request, with an additional zone in the rear). BMW’s new curved screen, which will be available on all models in this line, includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch central touchscreen. Despite its complexity, BMW’s latest operating system remains easy to use and is accessed via the iDrive button on the center console.

The X7’s list of driving assistance technologies has been expanded to include a hands-free highway driving assistance feature similar to that found in many other luxury full-size SUVs. The X7’s system, unlike Cadillac’s Super Cruise or Lincoln’s ActiveGlide, works only at lower speeds, such as in a traffic jam. BMW also provides features such as parking assistance and a parking assist system that can “remember” past actions and automatically guide you into or out of a tight garage with all cameras and sensors installed.

Final Thoughts

The X7 has long had much to offer as one of the most luxurious and best-driving SUVs in its class. For 2023, numerous enhancements, notably improved powertrains and an attractive variety of technology, will only strengthen its position at the top of the category. And although, in our opinion, the X7 has never really been a particularly beautiful car in terms of looks – but that’s really not the case with any large battleship – the unusual new front end is really a special eye-catcher!