2023 BMW X7 xDrive40d M Sport Automatic G07

Not only is the X7 BMW’s largest SUV (for now), it can also carry the largest number of passengers, with space for seven in comfort. Eclipsing even the X5, which can also be ordered in seven-seat guise, The X7 boasts an additional 229mm of length, of which 130mm has been added into the wheelbase. Measuring over 5.1 metres long, it’s a bit of a beast and first went on sale in 2019, initially with a choice of 261bhp xDrive30d or mighty 394bhp M50d engines.

Revisions to the line-up in 2020 saw a 335bhp xDrive40d edition replace both powerplants, and we’ve only just been able to catch up with the latest car. It's a bit of a monster, with muscular performance and strong overtaking power. Even with a Kerbweight of over 2.5 tonnes, it’s a potent concoction. Mild hybrid technology gives an 11bhp boost, enhancing efficiency and harnessing lost energy as the vehicle slows down or brakes. There’s a beautifully meaty sound from the six-cylinder unit if you plant the accelerator into the bulkhead, with the eight-speed automatic proving to be a silky companion. The steering is responsive and accurate and is a delight around town, where the sheer bulk of the X7 seems to slim down. On faster back roads there’s agile responses, nicely balanced handling, and decent grip, and the adaptive suspension does a great job of isolating occupants from lumps and bumps with a set up that is neatly configured.

Anyone familiar with the latest generation of BMW interiors will be perfectly at home, with a driver focussed cockpit with all of the essential controls well laid out. There’s an imposing central 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a similar size display that takes care of the instruments, with a digital readout that is configurable and capable of replicating the navigation mapping. All of the surfaces are of a soft-touch variety, with great tactility and a plush appearance. The metal detailing is intricate and adds to the upmarket look and feel, while digital displays for the ventilation system are beautifully integrated into the overall design. The driving position is commanding, there’s good all-round vision from the driver’s seat and no matter which row of seating you’re sat in, there’s decent head, leg and foot space. Our test car was fitted with a panoramic roof and a two-tone grey and cream interior which made for a light and airy ambience. In front of the gear lever there’s a handy lidded storage area, with extra room afforded in the huge door pockets, underneath the armrest and in the decently proportioned glovebox. Even with all seven seats in use, there’s a reasonable amount of boot space at 325 litres, with a van-rivalling 2,120 litres with the middle and back rows folded down flat. For those that like to tow, there’s a whopping 3.5-tonne towing capacity, giving you the choice to haul virtually any caravan that you choose.

FACTS & FIGURES 2023 BMW X7 xDRIVE40d M Sport Automatic

• Price £81,770
• Built in Spartanburg, USA
• Generation 1
• Codename G07
• Platform CLAR
• Bodystyle 5-door SUV, 7-seats
• Layout Four-wheel-drive
• Powerplant 2993cc, 6-cylinder, 24-valve, twin turbo diesel with stop-start
• Gearbox 8-speed automatic
• Max power (engine) 335bhp @ 4,400rpm
• Max power (mild hybrid) 11bhp
• Max torque 516lb ft @ 1,750-2,250rpm
• Top speed 153mph
• 0-62mph 6.1secs
• CO2 emissions 204g/km
• Economy (combined) 36.2mpg
• Fuel tank 80 litres
• Range 637 litres
• Insurance 50
• BIK rate (2022/2023 tax year) 37%
• Size (length/width with mirrors) 5,151/2,218mm
• Boot space (7/5/2-seats) 325/1,050/2,120 litres
• Kerb/max towing weight 2,545/3,500kg
• Euro NCAP rating Not yet tested
• Spare wheel (Full-size/spacesaver/run-flat/ self-seal/repair kit) No/no/no/no/yes
• Warranty 3 years/Unlimited miles
• What’s Hot Roomy cabin, monstrous performance, big boot, generously equipped, 3.5-tonne towing weight.
• What’s Not CO2 emissions and fuel economy.
• Also consider Audi Q7 Vorsprung 50 TDI quattro, Mercedes-Benz GLS 400 d 4Matic Night Edition
• Verdict It’s huge, roomy and there’s a mighty six-cylinder powerplant under your right foot.
• Rating ■■■■■■■■■■9/10