What are the prices for the BMW X7 xDrive40d?

2023 BMW X7 xDrive40d: $174,900 

2023 BMW X7 M60i: $205,900 

All prices exclude on road cost

The xDrive40d now comes with a price tag that is $34,000 higher than its predecessor, the xDrive30d. Similarly, the M60i has seen a $16,000 increase in its price compared to the outgoing M50i.

Despite the substantial price leap, BMW provides a valid argument in its favor by improving the standard equipment offerings and introducing mild hybrid technology in the engine.

What’s under the bonnet? 

The 2023 BMW X7 xDrive40d is powered by a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, complemented by a 48V mild-hybrid system, yielding a combined power output of 259kW and torque of 720Nm. This powerhouse can propel the X7 xDrive40d from 0 to 100km/h in a mere 5.9 seconds, according to BMW.

In contrast, the crown jewel of the series, the X7 M60i, employs a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 petrol engine that generates 390kW and 750Nm, enabling it to sprint from 0-100km/h in an impressive 4.7 seconds.

An eight-speed automatic transmission handles the power from both engines, distributing it to all four wheels through an xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Each model is also equipped with a 48V mild-hybrid system that incorporates a starter generator mounted on the crankshaft into the transmission, thereby adding an extra 9kW and 200Nm.

The 2023 BMW X7 consumes 8.0L/100km under mixed driving conditions in the xDrive40d model, whereas the M60i model uses 12.2L/100km.

How does the BMW X7 xDrive40d drive? 

The BMW X7 is certainly a large vehicle, but don't let its size intimidate you. Although it may require some getting used to, especially in terms of urban driving and parking, BMW has incorporated several features to mitigate these challenges. For instance, the X7 comes with front and rear sensors, multiple cameras providing a 3D view of the car, and a system that can assist with parking and even reversing. Thus, maneuvering the X7 in tight spaces or busy city streets is less daunting than it might initially seem.

The engine options for the BMW X7 include one diesel and one petrol variant. The X7 40d diesel engine offers a commendable blend of power and efficiency with 259kW/720Nm and an official fuel economy of 8.0L/100km. It provides all the power you'll need while keeping fuel consumption within a reasonable range. The M60i petrol variant, on the other hand, delivers a heftier 390kW/750Nm, offering quicker performance but at a significantly higher cost.

Out of the city, on winding country roads, the X7 stands out as one of the most composed SUVs in its class, notwithstanding its substantial size. Its air suspension offers impressive comfort over bumps, and the cabin remains quiet even at highway speeds. However, this comfortable ride is somewhat contingent on the wheel size. Our test vehicle, fitted with 23-inch wheels, was less forgiving. It picked up every bump in the road, making the ride around the city particularly rigid over cobblestones and speed humps. Opting for smaller wheels could make a significant difference in ride comfort.

What is the BMW X7 xDrive40d like on the inside? 

The interior of the BMW X7, while being subtler than the exterior, exhibits premium quality. It abounds with piano black, leather, and metal surfaces, which impart a sense of luxuriousness. If you opt for the (rather expensive) full merino leather package, you'll get leather extending to lower surfaces and a tasteful two-tone color scheme. The X7 doesn't disappoint in terms of interior quality, standing up against all its competitors.

The infotainment system in the X7 is BMW's iDrive, hailed as one of the best in the industry. The X7 comes equipped with the latest version which, despite its advanced features, remains simple to use. This system comprises a 12-inch screen and a rotary controller with shortcut buttons nestled between the front seats. The screen can be controlled through the controller, by touch, or voice commands.

Another standard feature is the 12-inch screen behind the steering wheel, serving as the driver's instrument cluster. The display is sharp, clear, and customizable, allowing you to choose the information you want to see, such as speed, fuel consumption, navigation details, and your media selections. The system includes Bluetooth, DAB radio, and Apple CarPlay, though Android Auto is not included. Overall, the infotainment system surpasses those offered by Audi, Mercedes, or Land Rover.

The BMW X7 is a genuine seven-seater, offering ample comfort even for adults in its rearmost seats during long journeys. For a little extra, you can upgrade the middle row from a three-seat bench to two more luxurious seats, making it a six-seater. This could be a worthwhile consideration if you can forgo the seventh seat.

The X7's front two rows are even more spacious, with a wide range of electric seat and wheel adjustments available for the driver. The middle row seats can be folded and adjusted electrically, while the third row can fold into the boot floor. Conveniently, buttons in the boot let you fold both rear rows simultaneously, making loading easier.

With all seven seats in use, the X7 still offers 320 liters of boot space, approximately the same as a VW Polo. If you fold down the rearmost seats, this space expands to a massive 750 liters – more than enough for the needs of a typical family. Additionally, the X7 features a stylish split tailgate.

Is the BMW X7 xDrive40d safe?

The BMW X7 hasn’t been crash tested yet by ANCAP or Euro NCAP.

Standard safety equipment on all 2023 BMW X7 models includes:

Eight airbags

Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with cyclist, pedestrian and junction detection

Adaptive cruise control with stop/go

Front and rear cross-traffic alert

Lane-keep assist

Blind-spot monitoring

Lane change assist

Exit warning function

Surround-view camera

Semi-autonomous parking assist

Reversing and manoeuvre assist (200-metre memory)

Trailer manoeuvre assist

Tyre pressure monitoring

Dash cam

How much does the BMW X7 xDrive40d cost to run? 

BMW maintains its three-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty, despite the shift of many competitors towards a five-year warranty period.

Though the cost for the service package of the updated X7 is yet to be disclosed, the service package for the pre-facelift model consisted of a five-year, 80,000km “Service Inclusive Basic” option, costing $2370.

Yeecar’s Take on the BMW X7 xDrive40d

The BMW X7 shines as a premium family-oriented vehicle and a remarkable luxury car. If this meets your requirements, it should undoubtedly be a priority on your list of prospective vehicles.

However, despite its overall excellent performance, the ride quality and road noise were a bit of a letdown. For a vehicle in this price range, it should provide a more comfortable and quieter cruising experience, something that seems compromised with the inclusion of 23-inch wheels.

Therefore, if you can accept its distinctive aesthetic, and avoid getting enticed by BMW’s extravagant options list, the X7 could prove to be a great luxury seven-seat SUV. But bear in mind that it does come at a higher cost than rivals like the Discovery, Q7, or GLS. If you don't need the seven seats, the less expensive BMW X5 might be a more sensible choice.