Experiencing the new BMW X7 in the desert of Palm Springs
What better place than the desert to test drive the new BMW X7? We tested the BMW X7 xDrive40i in Brooklyn Grey and the model definitely convinces with on-the-road elegance and off-road ability.
Exterior design
Beginning of the year the BMW Group launched the new BMW X7, the brands’s largest Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). The exterior has undergone a major refresh. The new structured front end reinforces its road presence and creates a progressive look. It has gained a new split headlight design. There are now two separate units: thin daytime running lights, and below larger LED main beams with optional 'Laser Light' functionality. They are set within a redesigned bumper and an updated kidney grille with optional illumination. The “Iconic Glow” BMW kidney grille comes as standard for the BMW X7 M60i xDrive. At the rear end with its very slim light units, connected by a chrome bar, the progressive look continues. All in all the design of the new BMW X7 is very modern, exclusive and luxurious.
What else is new for the BMW X7. Next to its visually impactful front end, the Facelift features light-alloy wheels measuring up to 23 inches (an ex-factory first for BMW), the latest-generation iDrive control/operation system including BMW Curved Display and BMW Operating System 8. The new BMW X7 also comes with a further expanded range of standard equipment, additional driver assistance systems and the latest 48V mild hybrid technology for the three engine variants offered.
Interior design
The BMW X7 offers maximum space and high comfort. The feeling of generous space can be enjoyed across three rows of seats. The second row accommodates three passengers as standard and offers two particularly comfortable individual seats as an option.
Driving longer distances in the new BMW X7 is absolutely comfortable, due to its large seating capacity. A high seating position and a large expanse of glass provide you an excellent view. Besides everything is neatly arranged and as we are used to from BMW all features are intuitively to use.
The updated BMW X7 now comes with a newly styled dashboard featuring the curved display as we know it from the BMW iX. It integrates a 12.3-inch instrument display and a 14.9-inch central display for the infotainment functions, and runs on BMW’s new ID8 operating system.
As comfort and safety play a vital role, the new BMW X7 comes with an expanded selection of automated driving and parking systems. New features, e.g. include the extended range of functions offered by the front-collision warning system, that now also reduces the danger of a collision with cyclists, pedestrians or oncoming vehicles when turning off. Also new is the exit warning function, which alerts occupants to a risk of collision when opening the door.
Driving the BMW X7 is sheer pleasure. Very smooth, yet very agile, dynamic, flexible and highly comfortable paired with roominess and luxury. Of course due to its size, its not the ideal car for the city but in our case, we couldn’t wish for any better car.
Pictures 1+2: BMW / Fabian Kirchbauer for ellectric
Picture 3: BMW Group