2019 BMW X7 Review

A powerful turbocharged V8 endows the X7 with simply delightful acceleration, so passing and on-ramps aren't a problem. Alas, that small delay between the time you touch the gas pedal and when you start moving can make low-speed driving annoying. A light and predictable brake pedal cleverly masks the size and weight of this SUV.

The steering usually does the same, but variable assistance and feedback can make the experience inconsistent regardless of setting. It's quite a feat that the X7 can maintain freeway speeds up a twisty two-lane road, though your family may ask why you need to be going so fast. It's difficult to justify the merits of "great handling" in a three-row luxury SUV of this size.

An available road-scanning system adjusts the suspension based on what it sees. While the system is effective at keeping the ride smooth over bigger bumps, it struggles on relatively smooth or undulating roads and makes the X7 ride too soft.

The wide seatbacks accommodate larger-size people, but narrower folks will miss the side bolstering, especially if they want to drive fast. The cabin masks all unpleasant exterior noises.
We're less fond of the climate control system. Even when you select the auto setting, you often need to make additional adjustments to the fan intensity and temperature of the dash panel vents. What's the point of auto? You have to continually fiddle with the controls to maintain comfort.

Ample adjustment options ensure you can find the right seating position, while the large windows, mirrors and an extensive camera array provide a commanding outward view. There's plenty of space for the family, though the interior measurements don't match up to some competitors. The sole exception is third-row shoulder room, which is remarkably tight even by third-row standards.

Operating the controls is a mixed bag. Most buttons are easy to find. Gesture controls are an easily ignorable gimmick, but other parts are baffling. For example, sometimes the stereo turns off when you open the door to exit. Other times it waits until you've exited and locked the door.

Though not as spacious as some oversize luxury SUVs, the X7 has plenty of room and smart cargo storage options. The bisected hatch provides an always useful tailgate. And we like the deep storage space underneath the third row where a spare tire would typically reside. While the door pockets are large, interior storage options are merely adequate.

Power-adjusting and -folding second and third rows are slow but easy to operate. They also provide neat features such as max cargo and passenger buttons that arrange the seats accordingly. When equipped with the optional tow hook, the X7 can tow 7,500 pounds, which is about average among three-row SUVs of this size.

The large and crisp displays are easy to read and react quickly to control inputs and voice commands. But the complexity of the underlying systems and somewhat convoluted menu layout mean there's a steep learning curve. As of a retroactive released in July 2020, the X7 now comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard.

In the right circumstances, such as stop-and-go traffic, the X7's adaptive cruise control system controls speed and steering without driver input, only asking that you keep your eyes on the road (verified with a driver-facing camera).