The 2022 BMW X7 is built around one idea: comfort. And it delivers on that promise without apology. This is the largest vehicle BMW has ever produced, and it competes directly with the Mercedes-Benz GLS, Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and Range Rover. But where those rivals lean on sheer size, off-road capability, or visual drama, the X7 focuses on something else: a refined driving experience wrapped in a cabin that genuinely isolates you from the outside world.
The X7 does not try to hide its presence. The tall hood, wide stance, and massive grille make it clear that this is BMW’s flagship SUV. But beneath that bold exterior lies a surprisingly comfortable and capable vehicle that works well for families who want luxury without sacrificing everyday usability. Whether you choose the six-cylinder xDrive40i, the V-8 powered M50i, or the outrageous Alpina XB7, the X7 offers a level of polish that few competitors can match.
It is not the most practical vehicle in its class, and it does not pretend to be. But for buyers who prioritize comfort and driving refinement over outright utility, the 2022 BMW X7 is one of the most rewarding three-row SUVs on the market.
Our Take
The 2022 BMW X7 is built for comfort, not utility, and that is exactly what most buyers actually want. The cabin isolates you more effectively than almost anything in its class, and the engines are effortlessly smooth. But the third row is tight, and the cargo space behind it is limited. The X7 is a luxury SUV for two rows, with a third row as an occasional bonus. If you regularly need to carry three rows of adults, this is not your vehicle. If you want a quiet, refined, and powerful daily driver that happens to have extra seating, the X7 makes a strong case for itself.
Pros
- Exceptionally quiet and well-insulated cabin
- Smooth and powerful engine options, including a 523-hp V-8
- Comfortable ride quality with standard air suspension
- High-quality interior materials and build quality
- User-friendly infotainment system with large displays
- Standard all-wheel drive across all trims
Cons
- Tight third-row seats that are best suited for children
- Limited cargo space behind the third row (12.8 cubic feet)
- Expensive options and packages add up quickly
- Optional second-row captain’s chairs do not fold flat
- Fuel economy is mediocre, especially with V-8 engines
What’s New for 2022
The 2022 BMW X7 received a mid-cycle facelift that brought meaningful changes, and most of them are for the better. The split-headlight design is the most polarizing update, with upper LED elements housing the daytime running lights and lower units containing the low- and high-beam projectors. It is a bold move that gives the X7 a distinctive, almost futuristic road presence.
Inside, the X7 adopts a curved display similar to that in the BMW iX, combining a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen into a single unit running BMW’s eighth-generation operating system. The dashboard has also been revised with new ventilation units and a light band that reinforces the premium feel.
Under the hood, all engine variants receive 48-volt mild-hybrid technology for the first time, improving efficiency and providing electric boosting for added performance. In the U.S. market, the xDrive40i retains its 335-horsepower output, while European markets received a more powerful 375-horsepower version of the same engine. The removal of the Dynamic Handling package as an individual option on the xDrive40i is a notable downgrade for buyers seeking sharper handling.
Exterior Design
The 2022 BMW X7 is a large and imposing SUV, measuring 203.3 inches in length and 87.3 inches in width. The massive kidney grille dominates the front fascia, and the split-headlight treatment introduced in the facelift adds a modern touch. It is a design that demands attention, and it succeeds in making the X7 instantly recognizable as BMW’s flagship SUV.
From the side, the X7 maintains a clean, upright profile with prominent wheel arches and a long hood that emphasizes its rear-wheel-drive-based proportions. The rear features sculpted taillights with new LED graphics and a chrome bar that spans the tailgate. The X7 is available with wheel sizes ranging from 20 inches to an optional 23 inches, making it the first BMW to offer such large wheels. The overall design is more about presence than elegance, and it works well for buyers who want their SUV to stand out.
Driving Experience: Refined but Not Sporty
The X7 is designed to isolate you from the road, and it does that job exceptionally well. The standard air suspension with adaptive damping provides a smooth ride that absorbs most road imperfections, especially in Comfort mode. On the highway, the X7 feels stable and planted, and the cabin remains quiet enough to make long trips genuinely relaxing.
But this isolation comes at a cost. The X7 has a tendency to lean in corners, which betrays its otherwise athletic demeanor. The steering is light and easy to manage, but it lacks the feedback that BMW enthusiasts might expect. The X7 is designed for relaxed cruising, not canyon carving. The optional Dynamic Handling package, which includes active suspension stabilization and rear-wheel steering, was available on earlier models but was removed as an individual option for the xDrive40i in 2022. This means that buyers seeking sharper handling may need to step up to the M50i or Alpina XB7, which come with more performance-oriented hardware.
Performance and Acceleration: Smooth, Strong, and Satisfying
The 2022 BMW X7 is available with three powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The xDrive40i is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine producing 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque in the U.S. market. MotorTrend recorded a 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds for this model, which is impressive for a vehicle weighing over 5,400 pounds.
The M50i is equipped with a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 producing 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This model can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.5 seconds, delivering the kind of effortless acceleration that makes merging onto highways feel almost trivial. The Alpina XB7 is the range-topping model, featuring a specially tuned version of the 4.4-liter V-8 producing 612 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. BMW claims a 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds, making it one of the quickest full-size SUVs on the market. This is the kind of performance that genuinely surprises passengers. All three engines deliver smooth, linear power with minimal turbo lag.
Ride Comfort and Cabin Refinement: Library Quiet
Ride comfort is where the X7 truly shines. The standard air suspension provides a cushioned ride that isolates occupants from road imperfections, and the cabin is remarkably quiet, with minimal wind and road noise intrusion. Car and Driver described it as “as quiet as a library but both comfier and ritzier.”
The suspension can be adjusted through selectable drive modes, with Comfort mode offering the softest ride and Sport mode tightening the dampers for improved body control. Even in Sport mode, the X7 remains comfortable for daily driving. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, with available heating, ventilation, and massage functions on higher trims. The second-row seats are spacious and comfortable, while the third row, though present, is best suited for children or short trips.
Interior and Luxury Feel: A Step Above
The interior of the 2022 BMW X7 is a highlight of the vehicle. The cabin is finished with high-quality materials, including soft leather, genuine wood trim, and metal accents. The design is clean and modern, with a focus on driver-centric controls and passenger comfort. The X7’s cabin feels genuinely premium, and it makes many competitors feel plasticky in comparison.
The front seats are wide and supportive, with multiple adjustments and memory settings. The second row offers generous legroom and can be configured with either a bench seat for three passengers or captain’s chairs for two. The third row, while usable, is tighter than those in competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLS or Cadillac Escalade. The curved display combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen, creating a cohesive and modern look.
Technology and Infotainment: Intuitive and Responsive
The 2022 BMW X7 is equipped with BMW’s latest iDrive 8 infotainment system, displayed on a 14.9-inch touchscreen that is part of the curved display unit. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air map updates, and voice control. The interface is responsive and intuitive, with a clean layout and customizable menus. The system can also be controlled via the iDrive controller on the center console, gesture control, or voice commands.
Standard driver assistance features include forward collision warning with city collision mitigation, lane departure warning, blind spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. Available features include a low-speed hands-free driving system, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The technology suite is comprehensive and works well in practice.
Fuel Economy: The Cost of Size and Power
The 2022 BMW X7 does not pretend to be efficient, and it shows from the moment you start driving it. This is a large, heavy luxury SUV built around comfort and performance, not fuel savings.
The six-cylinder xDrive40i offers the most reasonable balance, returning 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. In real use, it feels manageable for a vehicle of this size, especially on long highway runs where efficiency holds up fairly well. But step into the V-8 models, and the story changes quickly. The M50i and Alpina XB7 both sit at 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway, and in everyday driving, that difference becomes very noticeable.
On paper, the gap looks small. In reality, it is the difference between a vehicle you can live with comfortably and one that demands frequent fuel stops. Some owners report low-20s mpg on highways with the V-8, but city driving pulls those numbers down fast.
Compared to rivals, the X7 sits in the middle. The Mercedes-Benz GLS is similar in its six-cylinder form, while the Cadillac Escalade consumes even more fuel. The Lincoln Navigator’s V-6 is more efficient, but it does not deliver the same level of performance.
There is no escaping the conclusion here: if efficiency matters, the xDrive40i is the only version that makes sense. Everything else trades economy for power, and BMW makes no effort to hide that tradeoff.
Practicality and Storage
The 2022 BMW X7 offers seating for up to seven passengers, but its cargo space is limited compared to some rivals. Behind the third row, there is just 12.8 cubic feet of space, which is enough for a few grocery bags or small suitcases. With the third row folded, cargo capacity expands to 48.6 cubic feet, and with both rear rows folded, it reaches a maximum of 90.4 cubic feet. The optional second-row captain’s chairs do not fold flat, which limits versatility when carrying larger items. The power-folding third-row seats are convenient but operate slowly. The X7 can tow up to 7,500 pounds when properly equipped, which is competitive for the segment.
Biggest Strength and Weakness
Biggest Strength: The 2022 BMW X7‘s cabin is exceptionally quiet, well-insulated, and luxurious, making it one of the most comfortable three-row SUVs on the market. The ride quality is smooth and composed, and the engine options provide ample power for any situation. The X7 also benefits from BMW’s advanced infotainment system and driver assistance features.
Biggest Weakness: The X7’s third-row seats are tight, and cargo space behind them is limited. The optional captain’s chairs do not fold flat, further reducing versatility. For buyers who need maximum passenger and cargo space, the Mercedes-Benz GLS or Cadillac Escalade are more practical choices.
Competitors Worth Considering
The Mercedes-Benz GLS offers a more luxurious interior, a more comfortable third row, and a smoother ride overall, but it lacks the X7’s driver-focused composure. The Cadillac Escalade provides significantly more cargo space, a more imposing presence, and a powerful V-8 engine, yet it feels noticeably less refined on the move. The Lincoln Navigator offers a spacious cabin, a comfortable ride, and a strong V-6 engine, but it can’t match the X7’s premium fit and finish. The Range Rover offers superior off-road capability and a more distinctive design, though it is more expensive and less practical for everyday family use.
Trim Comparison
xDrive40i: The entry-level trim starts at approximately $74,900. It is powered by a 335-hp six-cylinder engine and comes well-equipped with standard features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, navigation, and a full suite of driver assistance systems. This is the best value in the lineup.
M50i: Starting at approximately $99,800, the M50i adds a 523-hp V-8 engine, larger wheels, and additional standard features like a premium audio system and power side window shades. It is the choice for buyers who want V-8 performance.
Alpina XB7: The range-topping model starts at approximately $141,300 and features a 612-hp V-8, unique styling elements, and a more luxurious interior. It is for buyers who want the ultimate X7 experience and are willing to pay for it.
Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?
For most buyers, the xDrive40i is the recommended choice. It offers ample power for daily driving, a comfortable ride, and a generous list of standard features at a more accessible price point. The six-cylinder engine is smooth and quiet, and the fuel economy is significantly better than the V-8 models. The M50i is worth considering for buyers who value V-8 performance and are willing to accept the higher fuel costs and purchase price. The Alpina XB7 is best left to those who want the ultimate in performance and exclusivity.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, if you want a luxurious, comfortable, and refined three-row SUV that prioritizes driving quality over outright practicality. The 2022 BMW X7 is one of the best-driving vehicles in its class, with a quiet cabin, smooth powertrains, and a high-quality interior.
No, if you need maximum cargo space or third-row comfort for adults. The X7’s third row is tight, and cargo space behind it is limited. The Mercedes-Benz GLS and Cadillac Escalade are more practical choices for families who frequently use the third row.
Final Verdict
The 2022 BMW X7 is the best all-around luxury SUV BMW offers, but it is not the most practical vehicle in its class. It delivers a refined driving experience, a quiet and luxurious cabin, and strong performance across all engine options. The xDrive40i offers the best value, while the M50i and Alpina XB7 cater to those who prioritize power and exclusivity. The compromises are real: the third row is tight, cargo space is limited, and the V-8 models are thirsty. But for buyers who value driving refinement and interior quality over maximum utility, the 2022 BMW X7 remains a compelling choice.
FAQ
Is the 2022 BMW X7 reliable?
The 2022 BMW X7 has shown improved reliability compared to earlier model years. Consumer Reports ranked BMW as the third most reliable brand overall in 2022, marking a significant jump from previous years. The X7 itself has had fewer recalls and complaints than some other BMW models, making it a more dependable choice for used buyers. However, some owners have reported issues with the electrical system and suspension components.
How does the 2022 BMW X7 compare to the Mercedes-Benz GLS?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS offers a more luxurious interior, a more comfortable third row, and a smoother ride overall. However, the 2022 BMW X7 drives better, with more engaging handling and more responsive powertrains. The GLS is the better choice for buyers who prioritize passenger comfort and cargo space, while the X7 is the better choice for those who value driving dynamics and refinement.
What is the fuel economy of the 2022 BMW X7?
The xDrive40i achieves 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, while the M50i and Alpina XB7 achieve 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. These figures are typical for full-size luxury SUVs with powerful engines.
How much cargo space does the 2022 BMW X7 have?
Behind the third row, the X7 offers 12.8 cubic feet of space. With the third row folded, capacity expands to 48.6 cubic feet, and with both rear rows folded, it reaches 90.4 cubic feet. The optional second-row captain’s chairs do not fold flat, which limits versatility.
Is the 2022 BMW X7 good for families?
Yes, for families who do not regularly use the third row for adults. The X7 offers a comfortable and spacious second row, a quiet cabin, and a smooth ride. However, the third row is best suited for children, and cargo space is limited when all seats are in use.
What is the towing capacity of the 2022 BMW X7?
The 2022 BMW X7 can tow up to 7,500 pounds when properly equipped, which is competitive for the segment.
