2023 BMW X7 vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner maintained its rugged, adventure-ready persona, a nod to its origins in the 1980s SUV craze. Unlike many modern SUVs that have shifted to car-based platforms, the 4Runner stayed true to its roots, sharing its underpinnings with the Toyota Tacoma pickup. This design choice was not due to stubbornness but rather a strategic decision by Toyota, which already had the Highlander for family duties, allowing the 4Runner to cater to off-road enthusiasts. Its high ride height, boxy proportions, and sharply angled front bumper were all functional design elements that emphasized its off-road capabilities. Inside, the 4Runner's dashboard layout was reminiscent of the late 2000s, reflecting its last full redesign in 2009.

The 2023 BMW X7, after four years in production, received a mid-cycle makeover that brought a bolder design, particularly at the front, aligning it with the redesigned BMW 7 Series sedan. The new LED accent lights and recessed headlights added to its polarizing appearance, especially with the oversized kidney grille. While the front-end styling was controversial, the sides and rear remained largely unchanged. The interior saw significant updates, including a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The materials used were of premium quality, with options for leather upholstery and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute. Despite some design choices that caused glare, the interior revisions gave the X7 a modern and elegant appearance.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a single 4.0-liter V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine, though dated, was chosen for its reliability and decent initial acceleration. However, in most driving situations, it felt underwhelming. The power was routed through a five-speed automatic transmission to either the rear wheels or an available 4WD system with a low range. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome, with noticeable body roll, but it excelled off-road, where its suspension absorbed obstacles effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models featured Crawl Control and a locking differential, enhancing their trail capabilities. When properly equipped, the 4Runner could tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup started with the base xDrive40i model, featuring a new 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, delivering 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. The X7 M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. 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 and adequate performance from the six-cylinder. The ride was slightly firmer than some luxury SUVs, reflecting BMW's focus on driver engagement, but it maintained a good balance of performance and comfort.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum of 89.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity in the two-row version, slightly more than the three-row model's 88.8 cubic feet. With the second-row seats in use, the two-row 4Runner provided 47.2 cubic feet of space. The optional third row, available on select trims, reduced cargo space to 9 cubic feet behind the rear seats. While the 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate, it featured a power-operated rear window for easy access. Despite its age, the 4Runner's cabin was not cramped, but it could have been more efficiently designed.

The 2023 BMW X7 excelled in providing ample space, with the second-row seats accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The power-operated middle row allowed access to the third row, which could hold average-sized adults, though thigh support was limited. Behind the third row, the X7 offered 12.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 48.6 cubic feet with the third row stowed and 90.4 cubic feet with the middle seats folded. The split tailgate and adjustable suspension made loading easier. Front-seat passengers enjoyed adequate storage, including a large center console bin with a wireless charging pad.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The system was straightforward, with hard buttons and dials for easy operation, especially useful when wearing gloves. While it lacked advanced features like a head-up display, it covered the tech basics and offered optional navigation, HD radio, and a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system.

The 2023 BMW X7 featured the latest iDrive infotainment system, which, despite its intuitive layout, had moved many functions to the touchscreen, complicating basic operations. Voice commands were available but could be slow and interruptive. The system's reliance on digital controls over physical buttons was seen as a drawback, especially for frequently used features.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system. The 4Runner earned four stars in frontal and side-impact testing from the NHTSA but only three stars for rollover testing.

The 2023 BMW X7, while not tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, offered a comprehensive list of safety features. Standard equipment included frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, adaptive headlights, and parking sensors. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, with options for adaptive cruise control and a semi-automated parking function. The highway driving assist feature was particularly appreciated for reducing driver fatigue.