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BMW enters the full-size SUV arena with two models of their first-ever X7. Both X7s provide three rows of seating for up to seven passengers to travel in total comfort.

Overview

The two versions are the X7 xDrive40i powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six-cylinder and the X7 xDrive50i with a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8. Both engines are coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission gearing power to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive four-wheel-drive system.

The BMW xDrive50i’s sporty V-8 cranks out 456 horsepower along with 479 lb.-ft. of torque, and clicks off a 0-to-60-mph time of 5.2 seconds. Both X7s are tow rated up to 7,500 pounds with the optional trailer hitch.

The X7 50i xDrive rides on a full air suspension capable of lowering the vehicle for ease of loading passengers and cargo. Dynamic dampers allow dialing in either a softer or firmer ride.

The X7 may be ordered with a system tying the air suspension into forward-looking cameras that monitor the road ahead to adjust suspension parameters to prepare for impending road imperfections. The system pairs with a package that includes active rear-wheel steering and brakes tuned by BMW’s M division. For V-8-powered models, the package also adds a sport rear differential. An off-road package is also available.

Tested

My BMW X7 xDrive test vehicle was the 50i V-8 with a base price set at $92,600. In terms of its exterior design, the BMW X7 does little to step outside the SUV norm, which is just fine for BMW’s first foray into the realm of three-row SUVs. The styling is clean and simple, leading off with a bold enlarged twin grille dominating the nose along with large lower and side air intakes. The front and rear overhangs are abbreviated and…