2021 BMW X7 vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 BMW X7 was a standout in the luxury SUV segment, often seen navigating the bustling streets of metropolitan Los Angeles. It was natural to compare it to its competitors, and the X7 often came out on top. It boasted superior interior quality compared to the Cadillac Escalade, more prestige than the Infiniti QX80 or Lincoln Navigator, and a higher level of technological sophistication than the Lexus LX 570. Its visual presence was significant, especially when compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. Despite its impressive attributes, the choice in this segment was often driven by emotion, and opinions could vary.

The X7 was available in three versions: the xDrive40i, M50i, and the Alpina BX7, with starting prices ranging from $74,900 to $141,300. The xDrive40i test vehicle was equipped with 22-inch aluminum wheels, premium extended leather, and a host of luxury features, bringing its price to $91,745. The X7's styling was bold, with a massive grille that suited its large SUV frame. Inside, it shared many features with the X5, offering high-tech design and high-quality materials, though some quirks required getting used to.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was designed as an electric vehicle from the ground up, showcasing a distinctive look that set it apart from Volkswagen's gasoline models. It replaced the straight lines and sharp angles of the Tiguan and Atlas with a streamlined profile and wheels pushed to the corners. The ID.4 was part of VW's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback in Europe. Volkswagen's decision to bring the ID.4 to the U.S. market was strategic, given the popularity of crossovers over hatchbacks.

While the ID.4 shared some styling cues with the ID.3, it didn't quite look like a traditional SUV, a common trait among many EV crossovers. Its interior design combined Volkswagen's minimalism with a smartphone aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic materials. The base ID.4 Pro came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, while the Pro S and 1St Edition models offered leatherette upholstery. The ID.4's design choices aimed to provide a familiar experience for drivers transitioning from gasoline cars.

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

The X7's performance was impressive, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. However, its handling was affected by its size and weight, with noticeable body motions during spirited driving. The Dynamic Handling Package improved maneuverability and stability, while the Active Comfort Drive system smoothed out road imperfections. The X7's nearly 5,400-pound curb weight was evident on highways, but it maintained effortless speed and fluidity. The eight-speed transmission was praised for its brilliance, and the M Sport brakes provided reliable stopping power.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 launched with a single rear-mounted electric motor, producing 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, powered by an 82-kWh battery pack. It was the first RWD Volkswagen passenger car in the U.S. since the Beetle. An AWD version with 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque arrived later in 2021. The ID.4's RWD configuration offered balanced handling, while the AWD version provided additional power and traction.

The ID.4 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride and noticeable body roll in corners. Its regenerative braking system was less aggressive than other EVs, relying on friction brakes for a more familiar driving experience. The ID.4's performance was adequate for daily driving, with quick acceleration and sufficient power for highway speeds. However, it wasn't designed for sporty driving, focusing instead on providing a comfortable and efficient ride.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was a testament to 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 offered similar comfort, though access could be challenging due to the long rear doors. The available five-zone climate control system ensured individual comfort for all passengers, including those in the third row.

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 it down revealed 48.6 cubic feet of space, expanding 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 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than its EV competitors, though legroom was average for the segment. It provided 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place, expanding to 64.2 cubic feet with them folded. This was more than some EV rivals but less than gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

The ID.4's interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility despite the steeply-raked windshield. However, rearward visibility was hindered by thick rear pillars and a small back window. The ID.4 lacked a "frunk," prioritizing cabin space instead. Its unique gear selector and narrow center console offered limited storage, but the cabin was equipped with standard heated steering wheel and front seats for efficient heating.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and an iDrive 7.0 infotainment system with navigation, both using 12.3-inch displays. The iDrive system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and enhanced SiriusXM 360L. It also offered Connected Package Pro with real-time traffic data, parking information, and BMW Remote Services. Wireless smartphone charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control were also included, though the latter was inconsistent.

The X7's technology was user-friendly for those familiar with modern devices, though it could be distracting while driving. A head-up display was available, but visibility was limited with polarized sunglasses. Overall, the X7's technology package was comprehensive and well-executed.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12-inch screen. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and featured a 5.3-inch display screen for the instrument cluster. Haptic touchpads replaced traditional switchgear, but they lacked tactile feedback, making them challenging to use while driving.

The ID.4's natural-language voice-control system allowed for easier operation, responding to prompts like "Hello ID." The ID.Light feature added a futuristic touch, communicating information through a light strip at the base of the windshield. While some features felt gimmicky, the infotainment basics were well-executed, with a well-positioned touchscreen and intuitive menus.

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 Active Driving Assistant Pro, which offered features like evasive-steering assist, traffic-jam assist, and lane-control assist. The system was generally effective, though it occasionally struggled with lane maintenance and automated lane changes.

The Parking Assistance Package added semi-automated parallel parking assist, a surround-view camera, and a drive recorder system. Overall, the X7's safety technology was impressive and contributed to a stress-free driving experience.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star rating from the NHTSA for the RWD model. Standard driver aids included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. New features for 2021 included Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, enhancing highway driving and safety.

Travel Assist provided automated lane centering and adaptive cruise control, performing well in real-world conditions. While not as advanced as some competitors, the ID.4's safety features were effective and contributed to its high safety ratings.