2023 BMW X7 vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered a diverse lineup with eight models ranging from $33,745 to $54,495, excluding a $1,495 destination charge. The Explorer King Ranch, our test vehicle, featured 4WD, Rapid Red paint, a Premium Technology package, and a twin-panel sunroof, bringing its MSRP to $59,880. Despite its King Ranch emblems and shiny 20-inch wheels, the top-trim Explorer didn't visually stand out much from other models. Its rear-drive platform allowed for a long hood and athletic appearance, while the interior boasted exclusive Del Rio leather seating with King Ranch branding. However, the cabin's mix of quality materials and some questionable ones was noticeable at this price point.

The 2023 BMW X7 underwent a mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bolder design with LED accent lights and a controversial oversized kidney grille. While the front-end styling was polarizing, the sides and rear remained largely unchanged. The interior received a refresh with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The materials were of premium quality, with leather upholstery and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute. Despite some harsh reflections from glossy trim choices, the X7's interior was sturdily built, offering a modern and elegant appearance.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The base models came with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and RWD, with 4WD available. It had a towing capacity of 5,300 pounds and achieved up to 24 mpg in combined driving. The hybrid drivetrain, available for the Limited and Platinum trims, combined a 3.3-liter V6 engine for 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 5,000 lbs and returning 27 mpg. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, standard on ST, Platinum, and King Ranch trims, delivered 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 5,600 lbs with a maximum of 21 mpg. The King Ranch 4WD test vehicle averaged 20.6 mpg. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and offered an engaging driving experience.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup started with the base xDrive40i model, featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The X7 M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 handled well, with potent acceleration from the V8. The ride was slightly firmer compared to other luxury SUVs, but it maintained a good balance of performance and comfort.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. The third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. The King Ranch model featured triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and massaging front seats. However, the third-row seat was difficult for adults to access, and storage space within the cabin was limited. The Explorer offered 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87.8 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2023 BMW X7 excelled in providing space, with the second-row seats accommodating taller passengers. Accessing the third row was time-consuming but offered adequate space for average-sized adults. Cargo space behind the third row was 12.8 cubic feet, expanding to 90.4 cubic feet with all seats folded. The X7 featured a split tailgate and a button to lower the suspension for easier loading. Front-seat passengers had ample storage space, with a large center console bin and well-sized cupholders.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The King Ranch model included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the Sync 3 system's voice recognition was lacking, and Ford needed to upgrade to Sync 4. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2023 BMW X7 came with the latest iDrive infotainment system, which was less intuitive than previous versions. Many physical buttons were replaced with touchscreen controls, making simple tasks more complicated. Voice commands were available but interrupted audio playback. The system was better suited for navigation and texting, but more physical buttons and intuitive menus were needed.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety features operated smoothly, though steering wheel sensitivity was an issue.

The 2023 BMW X7 lacked crash test results from NHTSA and IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive list of safety features. Standard features included frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, with options for adaptive cruise control and highway driving assist. The safety features performed well, with no false alarms or unpredictable responses.