• Diesel least expensive to run
• Other versions require very deep pockets
• Servicing and maintenance likely to be high

What are the running costs?

A car the size of the X7 won’t be especially cheap to run in any form, but go for the least-expensive diesel and it shouldn’t be too bad. The xDrive40d claims between 32.8-36.7mpg under the latest WLTP testing regime that better replicates real-world fuel efficiency. The entry level petrol – xDrive40i – claims 26.4-29.4mpg, while the high-performance M60i xDrive claims to return 21.9-23.3mpg.

In normal driving we’ve found these fairly accurate figures. Around 34mpg from the 40d is possible, while the 40i returned a rock-solid 27mpg over a week of mixed miles. And with a vast, 80-litre fuel tank, the X7’s overall range is more than acceptable – even if it will sting at the pumps.

It’s a shame that BMW couldn’t squeeze in its xDrive45e plug-in hybrid powertrain, as found in the X5. That could have given even better running costs.

Servicing and warranty

As with other BMWs, the X7 is available with a number of service plans including one where an upfront payment will cover at least the first four years’ worth of services. BMW also offers monthly service plans. In addition, the X7 comes with a three-year unlimited mileage warranty – with breakdown cover – as standard.

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Reliability

• BMW doesn’t have a good reputation for reliability
• Engines and mechanical bits used in other BMW models
• Some electronics/software could be glitchy

The BMW X7 has been subject to three recalls. One relating to airbags, one to the engine and the final one was to do with the backrest. The X7 makes use of engines that are already found in several other BMW models, so at least the BMW mechanics will have practice with them.

You might find a little bit of trouble with the company’s latest infotainment system. While it’s slick in operation with endless facilities, we’ve found in other models it can be a little unresponsive at times, with hit-and-miss voice control and connectivity issues in some cases. If this is a problem, a software update should fix it as with any other car.

It’ll most likely be more reliable than its arch rival, the Range Rover, but there’s no guarantee it’ll give you trouble-free motoring. Good idea to invest in those service plans and maybe an extended warranty.