2023 BMW X7 vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2022 Genesis GV70 showcased a distinctive design, borrowing some styling cues from other Genesis models but maintaining its unique identity. It featured quad LED strips for headlights and taillights, a prominent shield-shaped grille, and a sloping roofline that added a fastback flair. The ribbed detailing enhanced its muscular profile, blending SUV bulk with sleek, car-like elements. The Sport Prestige variant added character with model-specific front fascia, 21-inch wheels, and dark chrome trim, while the interior boasted an elliptical theme inspired by an airplane wing, offering a minimalistic yet luxurious feel with Nappa leather and suede inserts.

In contrast, the 2023 BMW X7 underwent a bold facelift, adopting design elements from the BMW 7 Series sedan. The front featured LED accent lights and a recessed headlight design, maintaining the oversized kidney grille that sparked mixed reactions. The sides and rear remained largely unchanged, offering two design themes: the chrome-trimmed Design Pure Excellence and the dark-finished M Sport. Inside, the X7 received a refreshed dashboard with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen, complemented by high-quality materials like supple leather and Sensafin synthetic substitutes.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbo-four with 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV70 included features like a rear electronic limited-slip differential and launch control, emphasizing a sporty character. However, despite its power, the GV70 felt heavy and lacked the sharpness of competitors like the Acura RDX and BMW X3. The ride was firm, even in Comfort mode, and the steering lacked precision for spirited driving.

The 2023 BMW X7 started with the xDrive40i model, featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, delivering 375 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 offered potent acceleration and well-managed body roll. The ride was slightly firm but comfortable, maintaining BMW's engaging driving experience.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 provided mid-pack interior space, with front-seat headroom comparable to the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class and back-seat headroom similar to the BMW X3. Cargo space measured 28.9 cubic feet with rear seats up and 56.9 cubic feet folded. The interior design compromised storage space, with limited room in the center console and door pockets. The Sport Prestige model featured heavily bolstered front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, though some controls were buried in touchscreen menus.

The 2023 BMW X7 excelled in space, accommodating taller passengers in the second row and offering a large sunroof and windows for an airy feel. The third row, accessible via power-operated middle seats, provided adequate space for average-sized adults. Cargo capacity was 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with it stowed, and 90.4 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The X7 featured a split tailgate and a button to lower the suspension for easier loading. Front-seat storage included a large center console bin and spacious door pockets.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 impressed with its tech offerings, featuring a 14.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system's tile-based layout and glass rotary controller were user-friendly. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 3D effect and a 12-inch head-up display. The GV70 included a digital-key feature, a fingerprint scanner, and a radar-based rear-seat monitor. Genesis Connected Services provided remote camera activation and other conveniences.

The 2023 BMW X7 introduced the latest iDrive system, which was less intuitive than previous versions. Many physical buttons were replaced by touchscreen controls, complicating basic functions like seat heating and adaptive cruise control adjustments. Voice commands offered some relief but were not always efficient. The system's complexity detracted from the overall user experience, highlighting the need for more physical controls and intuitive menus.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 came with standard safety features like lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. It included eight airbags, with a front-center airbag for added protection. Optional features included Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane-change functionality. The system performed well but struggled with sharp curves.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, with options for adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The highway driving assist feature effectively reduced driver fatigue on long trips, with all systems performing reliably without false alarms.