BMW X7 M50d 2019 Review

The BMW X7 was not officially launched to the media in a local drive program, but the bulky seven-seat SUV has been doing the rounds of media outlets for review. So far, we've driven the BMW X7 xDrive30d and now it's the turn of the upmarket X7 variant, the BMW X7 M50d.

This vehicle, the range-topping model, produces more power and torque from its inline six-cylinder diesel engine than the 30d model's, courtesy of four turbochargers. The extra $50,000 on top of the asking price for the entry-level X7 30d also buys BMW's excellent Laserlight headlight system, upgraded ('M') brakes, differential and exhaust, larger wheels and four-wheel steering.

In standard form, the BMW X7 M50d for 2019 is priced at $169,900, but the vehicle tested was packed with extra-cost options, taking the price to $185,400.

Among the options fitted were BMW display key ($700), BMW Individual trim in Piano Black ($800), Panorama Glass Roof Sky Lounge ($1600), BMW Gesture Control ($500), Crafted Glass clarity ($1200), front/rear seat heating ($1300), front-seat ventilation ($1500) and Bowers & Wilkins Diamond 3D surround-sound audio system ($7900).

For too long Munich has had no answer to the Mercedes-Benz GLS. The BMW X7 now provides that alternative – seven seats and comfortable cruising with a BMW badge on the bonnet, all at a competitive price.

The highpoints of the X7 M50d is the brilliant powertrain, which is so refined and remarkably economical. Around town the X7's trip computer posted figures of around 10.2L/100km and lower still (9.9L/100km) on a 70km test drive.

Of equal importance to buyers, the engine works hard and propels the large SUV with a soundtrack that's more 'distant thunder' than 'nearby stamping plant'.

While the X7 is not in the same league as the X5 for vehicle dynamics and driving enjoyment, it does offer secure handling and grip, and according to colleague Sam Charlwood, the X7 will outgun the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class for ride and handling.

Inside, the X7 boasts all BMW's latest interior design features, including the Live Cockpit Professional instrument cluster, a head-up display, big-screen infotainment and BMW's iDrive 7 system. It's lavish and comfortable, including the ride properties, although the suspension does crash over sharper impacts.

BMW Australia announced the full specification and pricing for the BMW X7 range in March of this year, and deliveries commenced the following month.

Since then, BMW Australia has revealed that the X7 range will expand with the introduction of the petrol V8 variant, the BMW X7 M50i. That model is anticipated to go on sale locally before the end of the year.

While the X7 is a true seven-seat SUV and will accommodate adults properly in the third row, it's not necessarily a car that will sell exclusively to families of seven.

Some people are likely to buy it just for its presence, enhanced by the BMW badge on the bonnet. It's entirely possible that those who previously bought the 7 Series sedan will now trade that car for the X7, revelling in the SUV's dramatic visage.

We can see lively demand for the X7 from real-estate agents in well-to-do areas, looking for a prestige offering that will transport prospective buyers to house inspections. And obviously limo drivers could find the X7 engaging – as a used-car buy though.

At any rate, buyers will be drawn to the advanced comfort and convenience features, including the infotainment and high-end audio.

At nearly 5.2 metres long, the BMW X7 is an 'Upper large SUV' priced above $100,000, according to VFACTS. That places it in competition with the Mercedes-Benz GLS already mentioned, the Audi Q8, the Range Rover and a couple of Japanese rivals – the Infiniti QX80 and the Lexus LX.

Priced as it is, the X7 is much more affordable than the Range Rover and other rivals from the UK, the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan. While the Japanese competitors offer better value – or a lower price at least – the X7 is way ahead in terms of noise suppression, driving dynamics, powertrain efficiency and interior design.

Time to confess: I could never see myself owning an SUV as bulky as the X7. But for anyone else, it's a machine with so much going for it in the sum of its parts, not least of all its wonderful powertrain and sensible packaging.

Unless there's a real need for seven-seat capacity in a full-size, American-style SUV, however, most buyers would be better off opting for the smaller (but still roomy) X5.

Those who do need the room, however, will welcome the X7's laudable packaging. It's not an X5, but it does offer so many of that car's virtues – in the large economy size.

How much does the 2019 BMW X7 M50d cost?
Price: $169,900 (plus on-road costs); $185,400 (as tested, plus on-road costs)
Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo-diesel
Output: 294kW/760Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Fuel: TBA, 9.9L/100km (as tested)
CO2: TBA
Safety Rating: TBA