Updated BMW X7 to bring price hikes and mild-hybrid tech

The facelifted and heavily updated 2023 BMW X7 line-up will arrive Down Under in the final quarter of this year, offering Aussie buyers the choice of two variants priced at $166,900 and $197,900 plus on-road costs respectively – up from $138,900 and $184,900 plus ORCs.

Armed with an all-new look, overhauled powertrains and upgraded technology, the 2023 BMW X7 will renew its battle against the Mercedes-Benz GLS and Audi Q7 and will also be the first BMW model offered in Australia with mild-hybrid technology.

The cornerstone of the X7’s new look is its drastically reworked front lighting signature, which now comprises of high-set daytime running lights and low-mounted headlights hiding in the cheeks of the front fascia.

Said headlights are adaptive Matrix LED units across the range and flank what’s still the signature – bulbous – twin-kidney grille, below which is an all-new front bumper teaming with contours, air-dams and decorative elements.

The new look is matched at the rear by a slim new tail-light design, fresh contouring and plenty of chrome inlays.

In terms of powertrains, the most drastic changes have been made to the six-cylinder diesel straight-six that powers the 2023 BMW X7 xDrive40d ($166,900 plus ORCs).

Still displacing three litres and still fitted with a decent-sized turbocharger, the oil-burning six-banger now churns out 259kW/720Nm, marking a big 64kW/100Nm improvement over the old xDrive30d.

A wealth of subtle mechanical changes have been made to the big six, but the biggest one is its adoption of a 48V mild-hybrid system that not only contributes to the increased outputs but also plays a part in reducing fuel consumption.

BMW claims the new diesel will consume 8.0L/100km on the combined cycle and spring from 0-100km/h in 5.9 seconds.

Flagship luxury SUVs aren’t always known for their athletic tendencies, but if buyers are after sheer grunt then they’ll almost certainly opt for the V8-powered X7 M60i xDrive ($197,900 plus ORCs).

Packing an unchanged 390kW/750Nm, the reskinned and renamed flagship X7 hits 100km/h in 4.7 seconds, but drinks 12.2L/100km.

Both engines are paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission that distributes drive to all four wheels.

Befitting of the new-look exterior, the 2023 BMW X7’s interior has been treated to a makeover too, with the new BMW Curved Display screen ruling the roost – backed by the latest BMW operating software and iDrive system – and a subsequently redesigned dashboard featuring an X7 or M-branded ambient lighting bar.

Save for the dash design, nothing else has changed majorly within the cabin unless you opt for the new optional six-seater layout, which replaces the second row with free-standing captain’s chairs.

Standard equipment highlights on the xDrive40d comprise metallic paint, M Sport package, 22-inch light alloy wheels, BMW Individual leather Merino upholstery, M Individual Alcantara headliner, Alarm System, five-zone climate control, BMW Drive Recorder, comfort seats, a 16-speaker Harman/Kardon surround sound system and tyre pressure monitoring.

The M60i xDrive predictably ups the ante with ventilated and massaging front seats, heated second and third rows, a heated steering wheel and front armrests, illuminated BMW ‘Iconic Glow’ kidney grille, the M Sport Pro pack, an M Sport exhaust system, M Sport differential, Executive Drive Pro, active steering, leather instrument panel and heated/cooled front cup holders.

Both variants ride on adaptive two-axle air suspension with electronically controlled dampers that have been retuned to allow the X7 to “span the widest possible spectrum between handling and driving comfort”.

How much does the 2023 BMW X7 cost?
xDrive40d (a) – $166,900
M60i xDrive (a) – $197,900
* Prices exclude on-road costs

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