Usually, expectations are that a 5,000-lb full-sized SUV comes with somewhat cumbersome handling, but the 2026 BMW X7 isn’t playing to that script. It leans on the automaker’s longstanding reputation for exhilarating dynamics to challenge within the full-size luxury SUV fray. “People can’t believe how substantial it feels, and how sporty it drives,” James Duerbeck from BMW of Fairfax, told Global SUV.
The X7 is the largest BMW ever, but what makes it massive are its lavish appointments, options of action-prepared engines, and almost unfaultable ride quality. Although introduced less than a decade ago, it quickly rose to the top of the segment where it now competes with the very best in the game. It is large, it is luxurious, but most importantly, it is a BMW. Here are a few things to know about the Bimmer.
Pumped for Action
While the BMW X7 may be more notable for its luxury and engaging driving character, its engine specs are equally intimidating. A 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six-cylinder powers the base trim, churning out an impressive 375 hp and 398 lb.ft of torque. With that power, the xDrive40i goes from 0 – 60 in 5.6 seconds. Definitely, some X7 intending owners have more need for speed. To meet their needs, the X7 has a sportier powerhouse in the M60i trim. It has a 523-hp, 553-lb-ft 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 that goes from 0-60 in 4.5 seconds. For the most potent version, BMW teams up with ALPINA to tune the same 4.4-liter V8 engine enough to deliver 631 hp, and 590 lb.ft of torque. With this engine, the ALPINA XB7 goes from 0-60 in 3.9 seconds.
All X7 trims have an AWD configuration, sending power to the wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission. Although it is a big, bulky SUV, its handling is somewhat sporty, which comes as no surprise, as BMW has established a reputation for nimble, class-leading handling. Among other features, the ride quality benefits from the standard two-axle air suspension and available rear steering.
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Comfortable Lounge
Inside the most spacious BMW ever, good build quality meets aesthetic appeal, especially in the highest trim. It’s high-quality leather paired with elegant wood trims, all topped off by a panoramic moonroof that floods the cabin with natural light. In the Alpina version, a SKY Lounge takes it further, using ambient illumination to set the mood. But what makes the Bimmer comfortable is beyond the comfy seats. It’s in all the tiny details like power-adjustable second row, third row climate control, power sunshade, heated front seats, optional heated rear seats, numerous charging ports, room on the first two rows, etc.
The second row comes standard with a bench, though a captain’s chair layout is available. Even with the bench, the second row is comfortable, but the seats can slide rearward to give occupants extra room to stretch their legs. It’s a little tight on the third row for an adult, but moving the second row forward provides enough space. Entry into the third row is relatively easy with a handle to grab and hop in behind.
Floating Tech
A floating, curved display is the most notable part of the X7 dashboard. It combines a 12.3″ instrument cluster, directly in front of the driver, with a 14.9″ central infotainment display, above the center console. The display runs on BMW Operating System 8.5, which is quite efficient and easy to use. Users can access most features using the touchscreen, voice control, or the rotary knob on the center console. And the system is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The BMW X7 is also compatible with the My BMW APP, allowing remote services like engine start, locking and unlocking the X7, vehicle status monitoring, location services, etc.
Every 2026 X7 trim comes standard with many driver-assist tech, including blind spot detection, lane departure warning, speed limit assistant, forward collision warning, and more. There are also many available features depending on the trim, including a highway assistant that enables hands-free driving up to 85 mph. “We offer the 2nd best semi auto driving system in the industry and we do it at practically the lowest cost. Its just $2500 and it offers unlimited hands free driving on mapped roads at speeds of up to 85 miles per hour,” James said.
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Trim and Pricing
The 2026 X7 has three trims: the xDrive 40i ($86,700 MSRP), M60i ($113,900 MSRP), and the Alpina XB7 ($156,000 MSRP). We recommend the base trim, as it offers sufficient power, excellent build quality, and luxurious appointments to impress. However, we understand that the M60i and XB7 would tempt anyone. “I believe the X7 to be the absolute best value full size suv in the market, especially the 40i xDrive and the m60i,” James said. To him, they offer more value for money than the $150k XB7. “I am on my 4th X7, and have owned all the full size, and xl suvs in the market. The X7 is by far my favorite! In addition the only time I have ever lost a sale on the X7 is if the client needed a much larger vehicle. Never was it due to ride, tech, or style,” James added.
The X7 competes with heavyweights like the Mercedes GLS, Cadillac Escalade, and Range Rover. But explaining what sets the Bimmer apart, James pointed out that, “the driving dynamics without the compromise in comfort is unmatchable. Fun facts: the ride is now softer than the full-size Range Rover and the GLS, as well as, quieter, while still offering much better handling. The infotainment system is also unmatchable offering the best voice command, along with the ability to use the dial, plus the touchpad, plus voice, plus touchscreen. Every other brand is forcing the touchscreen as the only option as it is the cheapest option for the manufacturer.”
Gabriel Olakunori
Gabriel likes to (blindly) argue that SUVs are part of nature, and he might just have a point when you're walking in the snow, crossing bone-dry deserts, gliding down splendid park-like boulevards, or navigating rocky roads. He has over seven years of experience writing across a broad spectrum of topics, many within the automotive industry. If he is not at the desk w̶r̶i̶t̶i̶n̶g̶ having fun, he is at the wheel d̶r̶i̶v̶i̶n̶g̶ having fun. Either way, the road leads to the same destination: bliss. Gabriel loves SUVs for their all-inclusiveness, but he cannot turn down an offer to drive or write about any vehicle.
