Overview

The BMW X7 is the firm’s flagship large SUV – and one of the best of its kind on sale. It’s also one of the brand’s biggest and brashest designs yet, which is really saying something when you consider it also manufactures the iX.

Packed with the latest technology and driver aids and well over five metres long, the X7 sits squarely in the sights of popular luxury SUVs such as the Range Rover Sport, the Audi Q7 and the Mercedes-Benz GLS. The BMW aims to be the driver’s choice, but it’s also remarkably practical.

Sure enough, there’s lots to like about the X7. The styling is controversial, but the rest of the car exudes all the luxury and premium quality that you’d expect of a high-rise 7 Series. Three rows of seats make for a standard seven-seat configuration – with room for adults in the third row – while a six-seat variant is also on offer for those that want more space in the second row.

There are petrol and diesel engines on offer, but no matter which you choose, all variants get xDrive all-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic gearbox and 48-volt mild-hybrid technology.

As for trim levels, there’s a choice of three, ranging from entry-level Excellence spec, through to M Sport and top-spec M50i xDrive. All versions are luxurious and get a panoramic glass sunroof, adaptive LED headlights, air suspension and much more.

The X7 receives the same infotainment setup as the newest 7 Series and i7 models, meaning a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and 14.9-inch curved central screen that runs BMW’s latest iDrive operating system. It’s one of the best on the market even if it does take a little time to get used to the myriad features and functionality.

Click through the next few pages to read everything you need to know about the BMW X7, including its practicality, how much it costs to run, what it’s like to drive – and whether we recommend buying one.