2021 BMW X7 vs 2021 Chevrolet Trax

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax, a continuation of the model introduced in 2015, maintained its 2017 design updates, including standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. By 2021, the Premier trim was discontinued, leaving the LS and LT trims. The LS featured 16-inch aluminum wheels, remote keyless entry, and a 7-inch touchscreen with the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system. The LT trim added enhancements like heated mirrors, LED lights, and upgraded seating. Various styling packages and driver assistance features were available for the LT, offering customization options.

The 2021 BMW X7 stood out with its superior interior quality and technological sophistication. It was available in three versions: the xDrive40i, M50i, and Alpina BX7, with prices starting at $74,900. The xDrive40i test vehicle boasted 22-inch wheels, premium leather, and a trailer hitch. The X7's design, including its large grille, was fitting for its size, and its interior shared high-quality materials and technology with the X5. The X7's styling and features positioned it as a prestigious choice in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax was powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 138 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offering front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. While adequate for city driving, the engine struggled at highway speeds and was noisy. The Trax's firm ride was harsh over bumps, but its tight turning radius made it maneuverable in urban settings. Competitors like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30 offered more comfortable and enjoyable rides.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. It included an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive AWD system. The eBoost mild-hybrid technology improved responsiveness and fuel efficiency, though EPA ratings dropped slightly. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, but its self-leveling air suspension struggled with body motions. The Dynamic Handling Package enhanced driving dynamics, and the X7 excelled in comfort and performance, despite its weight.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax offered decent headroom and legroom, with supportive front seats but less comfortable rear seats. It provided 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 48.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat folded flat for larger items. However, it lacked options for a power liftgate.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was luxurious, with heated and ventilated seats, premium leather, and a five-zone climate control system. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable, and the third-row seat accommodated adults. The power clamshell tailgate revealed limited cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 48.6 cubic feet with seats folded, and a maximum of 90.4 cubic feet. These figures were below class leaders.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax featured a 7-inch touchscreen with the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, USB ports, Bluetooth, voice control, and an available WiFi hotspot. The system was user-friendly with vivid graphics and hard buttons.

The 2021 BMW X7 included Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and an iDrive 7.0 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen. It supported Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro. Features like wireless charging, voice recognition, and gesture control were included, though the latter was inconsistent. The head-up display was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax received a five-star crash test rating from the NHTSA but lacked advanced safety features. It came with airbags and a backup camera, with optional blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection. Rivals offered more comprehensive safety systems.

The 2021 BMW X7 came with standard safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. These included evasive-steering assist, traffic-jam assist, and semi-automated parking. The X7's ADAS was effective, though it occasionally struggled with lane maintenance and automated lane changes.