2024 BMW X7

BMW’s sedans and SUVs regularly earn CR’s recommendations for packing industry-leading comfort and technology into vehicles that are agile, quick, and even fuel efficient. Among luxury brands like Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Lincoln, and Land Rover, BMW’s SUVs often rank near the top of their category. Models like the X5 are remarkable for having powertrains that accelerate quickly while also managing above-average fuel efficiency. Some BMWs can be bought as plug-in hybrids, with useful electric-only range, or in performance trims, with more powerful engines and stiffer suspensions. BMW’s growing roster of EVs also generally rank high in our tests. Like most luxury cars from European manufacturers, BMWs fall on the expensive side of our assessments of maintenance and repair costs, but some specific models are a good option to buy used. However, shoppers considering a preowned BMW should opt for warranties or budget for repairs.

BMW's super-luxurious three-row SUV has a standard turbo six-cylinder engine and smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. This is a gem of a powertrain that provides punchy acceleration and respectable fuel economy. Its comfortable ride is helped by the X7's air suspension which keeps the body composed; the handling is remarkably responsive for such a large SUV. The cabin is incredibly quiet and has a richly furnished interior. Buyers can choose between two second-row captain's chairs or a three-person bench seat. BMW's latest iDrive infotainment system is easier to use than in previous versions, but it still takes some getting used to. An M50i version with a 523-hp, turbo V8 engine was new for 2020. For 2023, the X7 got an extensively revised front end, a restyled interior with an updated iDrive 8 infotainment system, and the xDrive40i received a 40-horsepower increase to 375.