2021 BMW X7 vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The 2021 BMW X7 was a prominent figure on the roads of metropolitan Los Angeles, often drawing comparisons to its competitors. 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 personal emotion, and opinions could vary.

The X7 was available in three versions, with the xDrive40i starting at $74,900, the M50i at $99,800, and the Alpina BX7 at $141,300. The test vehicle, an X7 xDrive40i, was equipped with 22-inch aluminum wheels, premium extended leather, and a host of other luxurious features, bringing its price to $91,745. The X7's styling was bold, with its large grille fitting the SUV's size, and its interior shared high-tech design and quality materials with the X5, offering a familiar yet sophisticated driving experience.

Volvo made subtle styling changes to the 2022 XC60, giving it a sportier appearance with a new front fascia featuring "air blades" and a reworked grille that housed sensors for driver-assist systems. The rear bumper was redesigned to hide the tailpipes, and new wheel designs were introduced. The XC60 shared its Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform with other Volvo models, ensuring a consistent design language across the brand.

Inside, the XC60 retained its clean design with a new digital instrument cluster, while the B6 R-Design test car added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats. The Inscription trim level offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Despite these enhancements, the interior felt subdued compared to other Volvo models, maintaining a minimalist aesthetic that emphasized functionality over opulence.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured an electrified xDrive40i turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 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 eBoost mild-hybrid technology added a 48-volt starter/generator and battery, enhancing fuel efficiency and responsiveness. However, the EPA ratings showed a slight decrease in fuel economy compared to the 2020 model, with 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined.

The X7 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering ample power for its size. Despite its weight, the SUV demonstrated smooth and serene driving, aided by the Dynamic Handling Package's Active Comfort Drive system and Integral Active Steering. The X7's nearly 5,400-pound curb weight was noticeable on highways, but it maintained effortless speed and fluidity. The eight-speed sport automatic transmission was praised for its performance, and the M Sport brakes provided reliable stopping power.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 engines. The B5 offered 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the B6 delivered 295 hp and 310 lb-ft. Both used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the B5 available in FWD or AWD and the B6 exclusively in AWD. The B6 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, providing smooth power delivery and impressive body control in corners.

The XC60 emphasized a calm, relaxed driving experience, with a quiet cabin and comfortable ride enhanced by the optional air suspension. The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds. The Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, with a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.9 seconds, featuring Öhlins adjustable dampers and Akebono brakes for enhanced performance.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was luxurious, 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 also comfortable, though access could be challenging due to long rear doors. The five-zone climate control system ensured individual comfort, and the third-row seat accommodated adults with ease, though accessing it required some seat adjustments.

Cargo space was limited behind the third-row seat, but folding it down provided 48.6 cubic feet of space, expanding to 90.4 cubic feet with the second row folded. These figures were below class leaders, but the X7's focus was on passenger comfort and luxury.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Legroom was average for the segment. The mild-hybrid models offered 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 49.8 cubic feet with them folded. Plug-in hybrid models had slightly less capacity. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and an iDrive 7.0 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, enhanced SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro with real-time traffic and parking information. 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 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul with a 9-inch touchscreen running Android Automotive, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a built-in WiFi hotspot. The system integrated Google Assistant, Google Maps, and the Google Play Store, with over-the-air updates. It offered full iPhone compatibility, though Android users benefited from additional features. The new layout used sideways swiping for menu access, and the digital cluster included a "Calm" setting to reduce distractions.

The 2021 BMW X7 came standard with numerous safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The Driving Assistance Professional Package included evasive-steering assist, traffic-jam assist, and lane-control assist, among others. The system was generally effective, though it occasionally struggled with lane maintenance and automated lane changes.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for 2022, but the 2021 model received top ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. New features for 2022 included Ready to Drive Notification and Emergency Stop Assist. The optional Pilot Assist system combined adaptive cruise control and lane centering, though it was no longer a standout feature.