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2022 BMW X7
Starting at $75.895
Highs Cushy ride and hushed cabin, silky, powerful engines, Alpina XB7’s outrageous performance.
Lows Short on cornering poise, limited room behind the second row, slow-moving power-folding rear seats.
Verdict Despite the cabin’s space constraints, the X7 is a large and lavish SUV with delightful powertrains.
Overview
Not that long ago, the BMW most likely to double as a personal limo was the 7-series sedan, but the 2022 X7 SUV is stepping into the role of rolling palace for the rich. With more real estate to exhibit its expensiveness and six seats spread among three rows, the biggest Bimmer is well-suited for affluent families. While the cargo area and way-back seats aren’t as roomy as those in rivals such as the Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Mercedes-Benz GLS-class, the X7 drives better and boasts a selection of more desirable powertrains. Backed by a terrific automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, the engine hierarchy includes a 335-hp turbocharged inline-six and a 523-hp twin-turbo V-8. The 612-hp Alpina XB7 affords ridiculous levels of performance for a machine this massive. Regardless of what’s under its high hood, the 2022 BMW X7 has gobs of upscale content and high-tech features as well as an interior that’s as quiet as a library but both comfier and ritzier, making it an Editors’ Choice winner.
What’s New for 2022?
For 2022, BMW makes only small changes to the X7 lineup’s option packages. While wireless device charging is no longer standard, enhanced Bluetooth is, and the M50i model now comes with power sunshades instead of manual ones for the second-row windows. The Dynamic Handling package (upgraded M Sport brakes, active suspension stabilization, etc.) and rear-wheel steering are no longer available as individual options on the xDrive40i model.
Despite our fondness for horsepower and the twin-turbo V-8’s blistering acceleration, we’d recommend the X7 xDrive40i. The six-cylinder powertrain that we experienced was silky smooth and plenty quick. It has a host of desirable standard features that include four-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable front seats with memory settings, heated front seats, a power tailgate, and more. We’d also add one of the Vernasca leather upholstery choices and the Premium package. The latter includes a head-up display, gesture controls, and soft-close doors.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The entry-level X7 xDrive40i is powered by a 335-hp turbocharged inline-six-cylinder, and the M50i has a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 that makes 523 horses. The Alpina XB7 has a specially tuned version of that V-8, which develops 612 horsepower. All three engines pair with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. We found the six-cylinder model to be torquey and quiet, but the V-8 was more charming, and its acceleration was more urgent. Its standard air suspension with adaptive damping provides a smooth ride, especially in Comfort mode. Unfortunately, the X7 has a tendency to lean in corners, which belies its otherwise athletic demeanor. The selectable Sport mode tightens things up slightly, with sharp impacts intruding on the interior’s otherwise placid calm due to the narrow sidewalls on the 21-inch wheels. Those who want the mightiest X7, and can afford its steep asking price, will appreciate the Alpina XB7. The version BMW had us drive around a tight racetrack boasted astonishing acceleration and demonstrated surprising poise.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Borrowing partially from the smaller BMW X5 SUV and partially from the upscale 7-series, the X7’s rich interior is well-appointed, tech-packed, and spacious. Plenty of luxury features can be found inside as well, including heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and ambient interior lighting. However, we were irritated by how slowly the power-operated, second-row captain’s chair moved when trying to let people in and out of the third row. Likewise, the way-back seats aren’t especially roomy for adults during prolonged drives. Still, no one will complain about the X7’s ample interior cubby storage. While we only managed to fit three carry-on suitcases behind the third row, we fit 33 total with all the back seats stowed.
Read More https://www.caranddriver.com/bmw/x7-2022
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