If not for the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 would have been the nicest time to be alive, at least for us driving enthusiasts. Last year alone, we tested a truckload of SUVs, of which many impressed with their car-like dynamics. Now that we have of these in each segment be it the compact space, mid-size, full-size or the luxury expanse, SUVs have really started to outgrow the other segments, both in sales and desirability.
As for BMW, it has a range of SUVs that has an X-range that stretches all the way from the X1 to X6, with a corresponding model in between, but since last year, the kidney grille now expands all the way to the X7.
What’s rather upsetting in this perfect blend of dynamism and elegance is its nose, which altogether makes its first impression a bit of a mixed bag. We absolutely have to start with that rather upsetting nose. Well, the kidney grille has been forte of every single BMW ever manufactured. So, while it’s not a new design element, this probably is as big and imposing as it has even been. Other than its nose, however, I think the prodigious BMW has a very bold and impressive design. And for that nose, well, BMW addressed that it would rather make an imposing car than something that blends in easily. So, here’s a full overview of the X7.
Specifications
The X7 has a handsome yet conservative design like most current-generation BMWs.However, aside from the big nose, the design of the X7 is quite pleasing. The horizontal headlamps, sleek taillamps, and the 21-inch wheels exude a premium appeal from this giant SUV.
As for its dimensions, the X7 measures 5,151mm in length, 2,000mm in width, and 1,805mm in height. It has a massive wheelbase of 3,105mm. It has a boot space capacity of 326-litres and a fuel tank capacity of 80-litres, regardless of the variant.
Under the hood, the India-spec X7 comes powered with two engines. First and foremost, the entry-level variants feature a 3.0-litre inline-six diesel engine, which is capable of producing 262bhp and 620Nm of torque. It comes mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox as standard. Next in line is a 3.0-litre V6 petrol motor, which is good for 335bhp and 450Nm of torque. It, too, comes paired to the same gearbox.
Mileage
The BMW X7, given its size and sheer girth, cannot be termed as a fuel-efficient locomotive. As for the numbers, the diesel-powered X7 is rated to deliver 13.38km/l and the petrol is not too far behind either, at 10.54km/l.
Features
The BMW X7 oozes luxury and plushness as soon as you step your foot inside the cabin. There’s a familiarity to the overall design and layout of the dashboard if you happen to be lucky enough to drive the newest generation of BMWs.
The driver sits facing two 12.3-inch screens – the central iDrive system and the digital instrument cluster, which is extremely proficient. All the controls are where you expect them to be, and the fit-and-finish is on par with the 7-series. There’s also the heads-up display which works exceedingly well. The crystal gear level looks good – gets X insignia on the face of it – although it looks like BMW is just trying too hard.
Colours
The X7, as of early-2020, comes in fifteen shades, namely, Alpine White,Black Sapphire Metallic,Mineral White Metallic,Vermont Bronze Metallic,Arctic Grey Brilliant Effect Metallic,Phytonic Blue Metallic,Sophisto Grey Brilliant effect Metallic,Manhattan metallic,Terra Brown Metallic,Black,Tanzanite Blue Metallic,Ametrine Metallic,Sunstone Metallic,Ruby Black Metallic, and Pyrite Brown Metallic.
Brochure
All the details regarding the BMW X7, namely, the engine, specifications, variant wise equipment, colours, dimensions, interiors, and exterior details are extensively covered in the brochure.
Variants and Prices
As of early-2020, the BMW X7is available in three variants, one in the petrol-automatic configuration, and two in the diesel-automatic configuration.The prices start at Rs. 92.50 lakhs for the xDrive30d DPE variant going all the way to Rs. 1.07crores for the xDrive 40i variant (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi). For the variant-wise on-road prices, visit us at autoX.
