Written byBMW X7 is an SUV unlike any other, redefining luxury on wheels. Now that the 2026 model is taking center stage, is it better than the 2025 mature version? From specs and tech to performance and pricing — Here are all the details.
Luxury With Muscle: Why the X7 Still Matters
I can still recall the test drive of a 2022 BMW X7; it was like floating on a cloud with a solid hold on a V8-powered thunderstorm. Big, bold, yet incredibly refined. That’s the magic BMW promises with its X7 line. Now, in 2026, it returns in an upgraded version that ups the ante, with the 2025 iteration remaining a symbol of modern luxury done correctly.
Suppose you’re in the market for a full-size luxury SUV. In that case, however, this article can help you determine whether the wait for the new 2026 BMW X7 is worth it or if the 2025 version has everything you’re looking for.
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Side-by-Side Overview: 2026 vs 2025 BMW X7
| Feature | 2026 BMW X7 | 2025 BMW X7 |
| Base Engine | 3.0L Turbo I6 (mild hybrid) | Twin-turbo 3.0L inline-6 |
| Horsepower | 385 hp (est.) | 375 hp |
| Torque | 400 lb-ft (est.) | 398 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Infotainment | iDrive 9 | iDrive 8.5 |
| Standard Wheels | 21-inch alloys | 20-inch alloys |
| Starting Price | $82,500 (est.) | $81,900 |
| Release Date | Q1 2026 | Available Now |
Exterior: Subtle But Sleek Updates in 2026
Each model features the same DNA – muscular, elegant, and distinctly BMW. However, the 2026 model introduces some design tweaks to enhance aerodynamics and bring the design up to date.
Key Visual Changes in 2026:
- Sharper LED daytime running lights
- Refined kidney grille with active air flaps
- Redesigned rear bumper for improved airflow
- Optional new 23-inch wheel design
- Shadowline trims are standard on upper trims.
They may not be massive changes, but they are enough to make the new model stand out in a subtle, elegant way. The 2025 X7 still looks great — especially in M Sport guise — but the 2026 one has its game face on.
Interior: Comfort, Technology, and Elegance
The 2025 X7 and 2026 X7 both feature some of the best interiors for business. An upmarket selection of materials, an intuitive layout, and impressive tech make them excellent on long drives and daily commutes.
2026 Interior Enhancements:
- Ambient lighting increased to 15 areas
- New sustainable trim materials (vegan leather standard on certain trims)
- New-look center console with wireless charging bay
- Massage-able front seats are now available on more trims
- More effective soundproofing to give you a quieter cabin
The 2025 X7 already comes with a luxury setup featuring Merino leather, a panoramic sunroof, and premium Harman Kardon audio. However, the 2026 model elevates refinement levels to the next level, especially if you seek eco-friendly luxury and state-of-the-art design.
Infotainment & Connectivity: iDrive nine vs iDrive 8.5
The 2026 BMW X7 will introduce the all-new iDrive nine system, which is not only faster and better connected but also more customizable than the iDrive 8.5 found in the 2025 model.
iDrive 9 Features (2026):
- Faster boot-up and loading speeds
- Natural voice command functionality
- Augmented reality navigation (AR HUD)
- OTA software updates
- Advanced user profiles with facial remains
The 2025 X7 is still excellent, but it doesn’t have the touch-of-the-future fluidity and intuitive user experience of the 2026 upgrade. That difference may be the deciding factor for tech-savvy drivers.
Performance: Minor Tweaks, Still Athletic
No matter which X7 you’re driving, the 2025 or 2026, you get a lively ride, quick acceleration, and agile handling for a vehicle this size.
xDrive40i Powertrain Comparison:
- 2025: 375 hp, 398 lb-ft, 0-60 mph in 5.6 sec
- 2026: 385 hp (est.), 400 lb-ft, 0–60 mph: 5.5 sec (est.)
M60i Trim (Same Engine):
- 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 producing 523 HP.
- 0–60 mph in 4.5 seconds
- Launch control and sport exhaust
The 2026 model features a revised engine management system for slightly improved throttle response and enhanced fuel economy. You won’t notice a night-and-day difference, but the recalibrated tuning now delivers a smoother, more confident drive—most notably during quick overtakes or at highway cruising speeds.
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Fuel Efficiency: Small Gains in 2026
Some aero adjustments and a bit of drivetrain tuning should yield a modest increase in efficiency for the 2026 BMW X7.
| Trim | 2026 MPG (est.) | 2025 MPG |
| xDrive40i | 22 city / 26 hwy | 21 city / 25 hwy |
| M60i | 18 city / 22 hwy | 18 city / 22 hwy |
This minor upgrade will help you decrease ownership costs in the long run —especially if you tend to travel long distances regularly.
Safety & Driver Assistance
BMW doesn’t cut corners on safety. Both feature Active Driving Assistant as standard:
- Lane Departure Warning
- City Collision Mitigation (Highway and City Braking)
- Blind Spot Detection
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
2026 Safety Upgrades:
- Improved radar/lidar systems
- Advanced Blue Highway Assist (driver’s aid in the form of semi autonomous driving)
- Intelligent Emergency Stop Assistant
- More precise adaptive cruise in stop-and-go traffic
The 2026 version enhances its semi autonomous capabilities over the already secure 2025 model, positioning itself as more suitable for high-speed, long-haul commutes.
Trim Levels & Pricing Overview
| Trim | 2025 Price | 2026 Price (est.) | Key Additions (2026) |
| xDrive40i | $81,900 | $82,500 | More power, iDrive 9 |
| M60i | $108,700 | $110,000 | Better insulation, ride comfort |
| (Possible) Executive Edition | – | $115,000+ | Premium materials, advanced driver tech |
For 2026, we could also see a new Executive or Prestige trim from BMW to cater to high-end buyers who yearn for more exclusive finishes, as well as top-tier options such as rear captain’s chairs and a complete leather dashboard.
Competitor Comparison: BMW X7 vs Mercedes-Benz GLS vs Audi Q7
| Model | Horsepower | 3rd Row Space | Starting Price | Tech |
| BMW X7 | 375–523 hp | Spacious | $81,900 | iDrive 9 (2026) |
| Mercedes GLS | 375–603 hp | Spacious | $87,000 | MBUX |
| Audi Q7 | 261–500 hp | Tighter | $60,000 | Virtual Cockpit |
The Mercedes GLS has slightly more powerful engines in its AMG versions, but the BMW X7 stands out as offering the best balance of luxury, sportiness, and intuitive technology. The Audi Q7 is a value pick, but it’s not the luxurious, behemoth-like choice the X7 is.
Who Should Buy Which Model? Buyer Persona Insights
Choose the 2025 BMW X7 If You:
- A slightly lower up-front cost is preferred
- Want proven tech without the learning curve
- Availability of value now vs waiting until 2026
Wait for the 2026 BMW X7 If You:
- Are infotainment tech-heads (iDrive 9, AR nav!)
- Desire the ultimate driving experience.
- You intend to keep the SUV for 5 to 10 years.
If you are already behind the wheel of a 2023 or 2024 X7, the upgrade may be worth it for the tech and efficiency enhancements. For first-time buyers, either model is a strong pick — it’s just a question of how soon you want to buy and how much the latest tech matters to you.
Final Verdict: Is the 2026 BMW X7 Worth the Upgrade?
The 2026 BMW X7 doesn’t completely reinvent the wheel, but it polishes it to perfection. With upgraded tech, more polished design cues, and increased comfort, it’s a solid reason for luxury SUV buyers to sit tight.
That being said, the 2025 BMW X7 remains one of the top luxury SUVs available for purchase. It gets almost the same speed, most of the same features, and a slightly lower price.
