2021 BMW X7 vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X7 was a standout in the luxury SUV segment, often seen navigating the bustling streets of metropolitan Los Angeles. It was known for its superior interior quality, surpassing that of the Cadillac Escalade, and offered more prestige than the Infiniti QX80 or Lincoln Navigator. The X7 boasted advanced technological features that outshone the Lexus LX 570 and had a commanding visual presence that rivaled the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. Despite its impressive attributes, the X7's appeal was subjective, as personal preference played a significant role in this segment.

The X7 was available in three versions: the xDrive40i, M50i, and the high-end Alpina BX7, with prices starting at $74,900, $99,800, and $141,300, respectively. The xDrive40i test model featured luxurious elements such as 22-inch aluminum wheels, premium leather, and a suede headliner, with a total cost of $91,745. The X7's design, characterized by its large grille, was fitting for its size, and its styling was both traditional and glamorous, securing its place at the top of BMW's SUV lineup. Inside, the X7 shared many features with the X5, offering high-tech design and quality materials, though some quirks required getting used to.

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's reputation for high-quality craftsmanship, fitting seamlessly into the brand's SUV lineup. Its design, from the iconic kidney grille to its body shape, was unmistakably BMW, though it risked blending in with other models in crowded parking lots. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice of matte aluminum or high-gloss black finishes, depending on the trim level, enhancing its upscale and sporty appearance. Wheel options ranged from 19 to 22 inches, catering to different style preferences.

Inside, the X5's design was consistent with BMW's signature style, utilizing parts from the brand's extensive catalog. While the interior was not lacking in quality, with leather and soft-touch materials, the abundance of black plastic was prone to collecting dust. The M Sport models offered unique styling elements, including an M sports steering wheel and exclusive interior trim. Despite the interior's familiarity, the X5 maintained a high standard of comfort and functionality, with spacious seating and a well-organized layout.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, producing 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive AWD system. The X7 featured eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which included a 48-volt starter/generator and battery, enhancing fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Despite these advancements, the X7's fuel economy ratings were slightly lower than the previous year, achieving 19 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined.

The X7's performance was characterized by smooth acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. However, its handling was less impressive, with noticeable body motions even with the optional Dynamic Handling Package. The SUV's nearly 5,400-pound weight was evident on highways, but it maintained a sense of stability and speed. The X7's eight-speed transmission was praised for its brilliance, and the Dynamic Handling Package's M Sport brakes provided reliable stopping power.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base X5 sDrive40i/xDrive40i featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M reached 600 hp, increasing to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model combined a 3.0-liter engine with a 24-kWh battery, achieving 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, with up to 30 miles of all-electric range.

The X5's performance was capable but not inspiring, with steering dynamics that fell short of BMW's usual standards. The SUV's handling was more akin to a Lincoln, lacking the connected drive experience expected from the brand. The X5's cabin was quiet, with a suspension that absorbed road imperfections well. The plug-in hybrid model offered seamless transitions between power modes and efficient charging capabilities, with a driving range of about 400 miles when fully charged.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was a showcase of luxury, featuring the Cold Weather Package, Luxury Seating Package, and premium Merino leather upholstery. Front-seat comfort was exceptional, with heated seats, armrests, and steering wheel as standard. The second-row captain's chairs were equally comfortable, though access could be challenging due to the long rear doors. The X7's four-zone climate control system ensured individual comfort, with an available five-zone system for third-row occupants.

The X7's third-row seating was surprisingly accommodating for adults, though accessing it required some maneuvering of the power seats. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use, but folding the seats down expanded the capacity to 48.6 cubic feet, and further to 90.4 cubic feet with the second row folded. While these figures were not class-leading, they were adequate for most needs.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a center console equipped with various controls. The front seats were comfortable for short trips, though they could feel hard after extended periods. Heated seats and armrests provided additional comfort, and the rear seats offered ample space for children and adults. The X5 was available with a third row, though it was not tested in this review.

The X5's climate controls were user-friendly, and the split liftgate design facilitated easy loading and unloading of cargo. The vehicle height adjustment feature was particularly useful for handling heavy or awkward items. Without the third row, the X5's cargo area was spacious, though the xDrive45e model offered slightly less space. Accessing the second-row seats was somewhat restricted by the limited door opening angle.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured the Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, both utilizing 12.3-inch displays. The iDrive system included Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with enhanced SiriusXM 360L and Connected Package Pro. Wireless smartphone charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control were also available, though the latter was inconsistent. The head-up display was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2021 BMW X5 came with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The standard features included a digital gauge cluster, 10-speaker sound system, voice recognition, Bluetooth, USB ports, navigation, and more. Optional upgrades included remote start, a head-up display, massaging seats, and premium audio systems. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2021 BMW X7 came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The Driving Assistance Professional Package included advanced features like evasive-steering assist and traffic-jam assist, which generally performed well, though some issues were noted in specific scenarios. The Parking Assistance Package added semi-automated parking assist and a surround-view camera.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a wide range of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package's adaptive cruise control had issues with stopping smoothly in traffic, and the lane-keeping system struggled in certain lighting conditions. The X5 received high safety ratings from the IIHS but had several recalls and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.