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BMW X7: G07 generation, refresh, engines and trims
The BMW X7 is the largest BMW SUV with three rows of seats and a luxurious interior. We look at the G07 generation before and after the refresh, the engines, trims, and what to consider when buying a used X7.
X7 in brief
The X7 was introduced in 2018 and has been on sale since 2019. It is manufactured in the USA at the Spartanburg plant and is larger than the X5: a longer wheelbase allows for a third row of seats, which is more spacious for adults than in many other seven-seaters.
The car can be a six-seater (with two separate second-row seats) or a seven-seater. The pneumatic suspension is standard, so the X7 rides smoothly and quietly, and the ground clearance can be adjusted.
Pre-refresh and post-refresh — what's the difference
The 2019–2022 X7 features continuous front lights and a dual-screen dashboard with the iDrive 7 system. This is the most affordable way to get an X7, and models with xDrive30d, xDrive40d, and xDrive40i engines are commonly found.
The 2022 refreshed X7 received a distinctive front light design, a large curved screen with the iDrive 8 system, and newer engines with 48V mild-hybrid technology. The refreshed interior has significantly fewer physical buttons.
For most buyers, the most sensible choice is a late pre-refresh model with the xDrive40d engine. The refreshed version is more modern, but significantly pricier in the used market.
Engines and transmissions
Before the facelift in Europe, the most common engines were the 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesels xDrive30d (around 265 hp) and xDrive40d (around 340 hp), as well as the petrol xDrive40i (around 340 hp). The most powerful were the M50d diesel (around 400 hp) and the M50i with a 4.4-litre V8 engine (around 530 hp).
After the facelift, the range is anchored by the xDrive40d and xDrive40i with a mild-hybrid system, while the most powerful version is the M60i with a 4.4-litre V8 engine (around 530 hp). Cars imported from the US are usually petrol.
All X7 models come with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and xDrive all-wheel drive. This gearbox is considered reliable, but mechanics often recommend changing its oil sooner than the manufacturer suggests.
What to check when buying a used X7
The air suspension is the key component to check: the car shouldn't sag after standing, the compressor should run quietly, and there shouldn't be any suspension faults in the instrument cluster. Replacing air springs and the compressor is expensive.
For diesel cars, check the particulate filter, EGR, and AdBlue systems, especially if the car has done a lot of city driving. V8 engines tend to use more oil and require more meticulous maintenance, so service history is particularly important here.
If the car was imported from the US, check its history via the VIN code — some of these cars have been in accidents. Also, assess the condition of the tyres, brakes, and large alloy wheels, as replacing these on such a heavy car doesn't come cheap.
Trim levels
BMW equipment greatly depends on the chosen packages and market; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
Design Pure Excellence
G07 (up to 2022)An elegant version with chrome details and luxurious trim.
- Chrome exterior details
- Luxurious leather trim
- Often — panoramic roof with lighting
M Sport
G07Most commonly found sporty version.
- M bumpers and larger wheels
- Sport seats and M steering wheel
- Often — M sport brakes
M50d
G07 (pre-facelift)The most powerful diesel X7.
- 3.0-litre diesel, around 400 hp
- A sportier ride
- M Performance styling details
M50i
G07 (pre-facelift)Most powerful version before the update.
- 4.4-litre V8, around 530 hp
- Sporty suspension and brakes
- Often comes with plenty of extra kit
M60i
G07 (from 2022)Most powerful updated X7 version.
- 4.4-litre V8 with mild hybrid, around 530 hp
- Large curved screen with iDrive 8
- Sporty suspension and styling details
Comparison of X7 versions
| Design Pure Excellence | M Sport | M50i / M60i | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For comfort and elegance | For sporty looks | For the most powerful engine |
| Most common modifications | 21–22 model year | 21–22 model year | 22 model year |
| Interior | Luxurious interior | Sport seats | Sport seats, M details |
| Engine | xDrive30d, 40d, 40i | xDrive30d, 40d, 40i | 4.4-litre V8, around 530 hp |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | Mid-range | High-end |
For most buyers, the best choice is the xDrive40d with M Sport or Design Pure Excellence trim. V8 versions are worth considering only if you're prepared for higher maintenance costs.
Pros
- Very spacious interior with a comfortable third row
- Standard air suspension and plenty of comfort
- Powerful and smooth six-cylinder engines
- Luxurious interior and plenty of features
Cons
- High fuel consumption, especially in V8 versions
- Expensive maintenance — suspension, tyres, brakes
- Size is awkward in the city and for parking
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between the X7 and X5?
The X7 is longer and taller, with spacious third-row seating and standard air suspension. The X5 is more compact and slightly sportier, with the third row being optional and cramped.
Which X7 engine should you choose?
For most buyers, the xDrive40d is the best bet — it's powerful and relatively economical. The petrol xDrive40i is smooth, but uses more fuel, while the V8 versions are worth considering for power alone.
Is it worth buying an X7 imported from the USA?
It might be, but it's essential to check the history via the VIN and have the car inspected at a service centre. Some of these cars may have been repaired after accidents, and their equipment and lighting can differ from European models.
Is the X7 genuinely a seven-seater?
Usually, yes, but some models have six seats with two separate second-row seats. The third row is more comfortable than in many other SUVs, but it's still best suited for kids or teens on long journeys.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
