2021 BMW X7 Review and Specifications

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Vehicle photos

Our Review
Price Comparison
Vehicle Rating
Recalls/ Complaints/ Safety
Vehicle Specifications

Our Review

The 2021 BMW X7 is the brand's most spacious offering and tastefully combines an impressive luxurious presence with extraordinary performance. Three exceptional turbocharged engine options are offered behind its bold (yet polarizing) oversized kidney grille; the standard straight-six providing an ample 335 horsepower, and two V-8s generate with your choice of 523 or 612 horsepower. For those seeking the upper echelon of performance and power, the Alpina XB7 is offered...albeit with a hefty price tag. No matter which 2021 BMW X7 model you decide on, each one offers an extraordinary level of luxury. When sitting inside the X7, it may come across as smaller in size than one would have expected, and we found its rear seat operation to be a bit slow. But the 2021 X7 has still earned top ratings amongst luxury SUVs and unsurprisingly has been anointed with our Editor's Choice award.

What's New

For 2021, BMW reshuffles the X7 lineup by dropping the 456-hp, V-8-powered xDrive50i—the 523-hp M50i continues—and adding the 612-hp Alpina XB7. The latter is the first SUV that the BMW tuning specialist has offered in the U.S. The xDrive40i's powertrain gets a 48-volt starter generator which, surprisingly, worsens its EPA fuel-economy figures; both its city and highway ratings drop by 1 mpg. The X7 also adds a handful of new standard features, including long-overdue Android Auto compatibility. The previously available Off-Road package, which brought an electronic limited-slip rear differential and underbody protection, is no longer offered.

xDrive40i AWD - $74,900

M50i AWD - $99,800

Available Option Packages:

Executive Package - $3,850

Learn More

Executive Package - Heated & Cooled Cup Holders, Soft-Close Automatic Doors, Glass Controls, Head-Up Display, harman/kardon Surround Sound System, Gesture Control, Rear Electric Side Window Shades, Panoramic Sky Lounge LED Roof (DISC) No longer available for factory ordering as of April 30, 2021.

Dynamic Handling Package - $3,850

Learn More

Dynamic Handling Package - Integral Active Steering (DISC), M Sport Brakes w/Blue Calipers, Active Comfort Drive w/Road Preview (DISC) No longer available for factory ordering as of June 30, 2021.

The entry-level X7 xDrive40i is powered by an awe-inspiring 335-hp turbocharged inline-six, while the M50i has a vigorous twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8 that produces 523 horsepower. The Alpina XB7 takes it one step further with its tuned version of the same engine, producing an impressive 612 horsepower. Whichever model you choose will come equipped with all-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic transmission gearbox for maximum power delivery - we found the torque from the inline-six to be powerful yet tranquil but there's no denying that V8 really charms in terms of acceleration. The X7 boasts a standard air suspension with adaptive damping which ensures an ultra-smooth and comfortable ride, particularly in Comfort mode. The 2021 X7 unfortunately leans a little too much into corners in Comfort Mode in our opinion, but still surprisingly maintains an excellent composure. Sport mode tightens up its performance, creating a more athletic ride. If you desire the ultimate X7 and can afford its considerable cost, we suggest going with the Alpina XB7.

Boasting the best features from both the stylish BMW X5 SUV and luxurious 7-series sedan, the interior of a BMW X7 is opulent, teeming with technology, and incredibly roomy. Luxury amenities such as heated front seats, panoramic sunroofs, power-adjustable steering wheels, and ambient lighting fill this vehicle to make you feel like royalty. Unfortunately, though we’ve experienced an issue when trying to move passengers in or out of its third row –the second-row captain's chair moves too slowly for our taste. On the flip side, adults may find the rear seats to be a bit cramped for longer journeys. Thankfully, the X7 provides plenty of interior storage space that can make up for it - we were able to store three carry-on suitcases in addition to 33 other items when all backseats are folded down!

The X7 is teeming with the latest tech, boasting a fully digital gauge cluster and 12.3-inch touchscreen that commands attention on its dashboard. The infotainment system can be controlled via a rotary knob or even gesture controls; while they may be more of a gimmick than something genuinely useful - every model comes complete with 10 speaker audio, Apple CarPlay compatibility, built in navigation plus Wi-Fi hotspot & wireless charging for effortless connectivity!

The BMW X7 has not been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or (IIHS), but it comes with an array of advanced safety technologies and driver assistance features. These include:

Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking

Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert

Standard lane-departure warning

BMW provides an unbeatable limited and powertrain warranty reinforced with complimentary scheduled maintenance that surpasses the norm.

Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles

Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles

Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles

Price Comparison

2021 Volvo XC90 - $49,000

2021 Lincoln Aviator - $51,570

2021 Audi Q8 - $68,200

2021 BMW X7 - $74,900

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 - $81,800

Vehicle Rating

9.6

Out of 10

Powertrains are incredibly athletic and smooth

Interior is plush, comfortable, and quiet

Several optional upgrades and packages available

Alpina XB7 is pretty expensive even for BMW

Cabin and cargo space smaller than expected

Power rear seats could be much quicker

Recalls, Complaints and Safety Issues

Safety Recalls - NHTSA

What are NHTSA safety recalls?

There are 9 safety recalls for the 2021 X7

Issue:

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 M340i xDrive, M440i xDrive Coupe, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 840i Gran Coupe, 840i xDrive Gran Coupe, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, and X7 xDrive40i vehicles. The connection between the 48-Volt battery and the starter-generator may not have been assembled properly, which can cause increased electrical resistance at the connections.

Remedy:

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the connection between the 48-Volt battery and the starter-generator assembly, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 12, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Issue:

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, X4 xDrive30i, X4 M40i, M550i, X4M, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5M, X5 M50i, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, Alpina XB7, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, and 8 Series Coupe, Convertible and Grand Coupe, 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8, 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le, 745Le xDrive, X5 xDrive45e, X3 xDrive30e, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 740i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, M760i Drive, M760Li xDrive, 750Li xDrive Alpina, Alpina B7 xDrive, and 2021 4 Series Coupe 430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive vehicles. When shifting into Reverse, a small portion of the rearview image may be obscured, or the screen may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Remedy:

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rearview camera software and update it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 16, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Issue:

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5 xDrive45e, 2021 X7 xDrive40i, X7 M50i, and XB7 vehicles. The head restraints on the second-row outer seats may be the incorrect type for the vehicle.

Remedy:

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the head restraints, and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 3, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Issue:

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 X5 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5M, X6 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, X6 M50i, X6M, X7 M50i and 2021 X5 xDrive45e vehicles. The headlamps may allow a blue light to illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Remedy:

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the headlamps and, if necessary, replace them, free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Issue:

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 8 Series Coupe, Grand Coupe and convertible 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8 and 740 Li, 740 Li xDrive, 750 Li xDrive, M760 Li xDrive, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xdrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, and 2019-2021 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5M, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, and 2021 M3, M3 Competition, M4 Coupe, M4 Competition Coupe, X5 xDrive45e, 745 Le xDrive. The rotor and shaft within the integrated brake system may not have been welded properly and could separate during a hard braking event, possibly resulting in a loss of the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and braking assistance.

Remedy:

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the integrated brake system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 25, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Issue:

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5M, X5 xDrive45e, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive40i, X7 M50i vehicles. The steering column shaft's universal joint connection may not have been tightened to specifications, and can become loose.

Remedy:

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, depending upon the inspection, either the bolt will be replaced and tightened to specifications, or the steering column shaft, universal joint, and bolt will be replaced and tightened to specifications, free of charge. The recall began March 30, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Issue:

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain X7 xDrive40i and M50i vehicles. The tire information labels may contain tire size and cold tire inflation pressure information that does not match the specific tires that were installed on these vehicles. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."

Remedy:

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the tire information label, free of charge. The recall began October 26, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Issue:

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2022 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive); 2019-2022 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5M; 2021-2022 X5 xdrive45e; 2020-2022 X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xDrive50i, X6M and 2019-2023 X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, X7 xDrive60i, X7 M60i, X7M, Alpina XB7 vehicles. The roof function control unit may be programmed incorrectly, allowing the sunroof to close without the key fob present inside the vehicle. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."

Remedy:

Dealers will reprogram the roof function control unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 20, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Issue:

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2022 BMW X7 xDrive40i, X7 Drive50i, X7 M50i vehicles with third-row seats. One or more of the compression springs that lock the backrest may not have been installed properly, and could dislodge or detach.

Remedy:

Dealers will inspect the third-row seat and, if necessary, remove and reinstall improperly installed compression springs, and reinstall any missing springs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 4, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Customer Complaints - NHTSA

What are NHTSA customer complaints?

There are 8 customer complaints for the 2021 X7

Complaint Date:

08/21/2023

Vehicle:

2021 BMW X7

Number of Injuries:

Issue:

While merging onto the highway the car violently jerked itself into the left lane without warning, nearly causing me to collide with another car. Error messages about "driver assistance" appeared. All screens then went black and the car rebooted. It pulled away from the direction I was driving several more times on my way home, but less severely. 3 weeks earlier multiple systems failed and power steering went out. That time the car was pulling me in the opposite direction I was steering. Was told it was a software issue that was fixed. Then this happened 3 weeks later.

Complaint Date:

12/08/2022

Vehicle:

2021 BMW X7

Number of Injuries:

Issue:

When starting the vehicle and shifting into drive, "hard" brakes are felt. Brake pedal is "stuck" in a high position and cannot be compressed. The vehicle is extremely unstable - the car lurches forward when brakes are slightly released. Excessive brake pressure is required to prevent the vehicle from moving inadvertently. This persists for 10-60 seconds, then the brakes relax into the normal position and no other issues are experienced. Confirmed NO lights on dash or warnings sounded. This has been experienced 4 times in 6 months. Issue has been reported to dealership. After second occurrence, dealership took vehicle for diagnostics and updated software. After third occurrence, dealership took vehicle and replaced ABS module, with software update. Feedback from BMW is that they think a diagnostic is running at startup and when the vehicle is shifted into drive it is not finished with the cycle. Most recent visit to dealership was late November 2022. Issue occurred again on 12/8 in the afternoon. Vehicle was parked in carpool line at school. When line began moving, vehicle was started and shifted into gear. Hard brake immediately felt (this is after repairs from BMW). This recurrence prompted this submission.

Complaint Date:

12/07/2022

Vehicle:

2021 BMW X7

Number of Injuries:

Issue:

Exploding moonroof while driving vehicle

Complaint Date:

11/18/2022

Vehicle:

2021 BMW X7

Number of Injuries:

Issue:

Sunroof exploded, just driving down the road, and BOOM! Most of the glass exploded outward, but it was definitely a hazard. The sunroof cover was open about 8-10 inches to let light in, but the glass sunroof was closed.

Complaint Date:

07/05/2022

Vehicle:

2021 BMW X7

Number of Injuries:

Issue:

When applying brakes and releasing the brakes there is a grinding sound. The grinding sound is pronounced when applying the brake and turning the steering wheel at the same time. When I took the vehicle to Checkered flag BMW of Virginia Beach, I was told per BMW engineering it was norm operating characteristic. The Shop Foreman said he had several customers complain about the same problem and duplicated the problem while driving my vehicle. He was the person that showed me the noise was much louder when turning the steering while braking. The report I received from the Service manager named the issue as brake/pad rotor stiction and pad vibration. The invoice stated that the loud noise was not a flaw or defect, but normal operating characteristic. Simply put and 85,000 vehicle grinding noise is okay. I believe there is a problem that will get much worse over time and become a very serious safety issue. So much so that I will take a loss and sell the vehicle.

Complaint Date:

05/16/2022

Vehicle:

2021 BMW X7

Number of Injuries:

Issue:

When moisture gets into the cupholders of a BMW 2021 X7, it leaks into the electrical system for the airbag sensors and seatbelt sensors. This makes them USELESS in an accident. BMW currently has a lawsuit pending against this VERY ISSUE. A small amount of soda spilled in the cupholders by my daughter. It was quickly cleaned and dried- but this caused a leak and lead to the restraint system failure- which renders my airbags in the driver and passenger seats useless- along with the seatbelts. They will NOT work in the event of an accident. This was confirmed by Rick Hendrick BMW Charleston in Charleston, SC. BMW should recall the ACSM and make the area waterproof.

Complaint Date:

05/08/2022

Vehicle:

2021 BMW X7

Number of Injuries:

Issue:

Sunroof randomly exploded while driving in the middle of no where . No impact , no debris , no flying objects around at all

Complaint Date:

01/16/2022

Vehicle:

2021 BMW X7

Number of Injuries:

Issue:

I was driving a car with family and all of a sudden we all started smelling a burning smell but we thought it must be from outside. However, in just few seconds the vents started throwing vapors so I stopped the car hoping it may stop if some minor damage. However, the hood started throwing oranges color fumes and by the time we all left the vehicle the entire front hood/engine area started burning. There were no indications of any faults in the car. This was the most shocking incident we had to face with my family where there were two kids of 4 and 9 along with my wife and her parents who are senior citizens.

BMW Service Information Bulletins (SIBs)

What are BMW SIBs?

There are 258 BMW Service Information Bulletins (SIBs) for this vehicle.

2021 BMW X7 Review and Specifications – Price Comparison

Vehicle photos

Our Review

What's New

Price Comparison

Vehicle Rating

9.6

Out of 10

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