2023 BMW X7 vs 2023 Genesis GV70

The 2023 BMW X7 underwent a significant design update, drawing inspiration from the BMW 7 Series sedan. The most noticeable change was the repositioning of the LED accent lights and the actual headlights, which were now tucked underneath. This bold design choice, particularly the oversized kidney grille, sparked mixed reactions. While some appreciated the daring aesthetics, others found it lacking in grace and cohesiveness. The interior saw a refresh with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen, alongside a more streamlined dashboard design. The quality of materials remained high, with options for leather upholstery and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute. Despite some divisive exterior styling, the interior updates were generally well-received for their modern and elegant appearance.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 shared stylistic elements with the G70 compact luxury sedan, particularly above the belt-line. Its design featured split-bar headlights and a distinctive chrome line that suggested a coupe-like SUV without compromising versatility. Inside, the GV70 impressed with its luxurious materials and excellent fit and finish. The cabin design was both contemporary and classic, with climate controls integrated into a curving bezel and a touchscreen that seamlessly emerged from the dash. The GV70's interior was equipped with a full touchscreen, rotary dial, and button controls, offering a user-friendly experience. The gas-powered GV70 came in two trims, while the Electrified version offered its own set of trims, each with a range of luxury features and options.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup began with the xDrive40i model, featuring a new 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This setup delivered 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, an increase from the previous model. 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 mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing all-wheel drive. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 handled well, with the V8 offering potent acceleration. The ride was slightly firmer compared to other luxury SUVs, but it maintained a good balance of performance and comfort.

The Genesis GV70 2.5T was equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The 3.5T variant featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The GV70 offered a refined driving experience, blending comfort and handling. The Electrified GV70 used a 77.4-kWh battery pack with dual electric motors, producing 429 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. It offered a smooth acceleration experience, with a Boost Mode for additional power. The electric GV70 had a range of 236 miles and supported fast charging.

The 2023 BMW X7 provided ample space, with the second-row seats accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The third row, while accessible, offered less thigh support and lateral space. Cargo space behind the third row was 12.8 cubic feet, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 90.4 cubic feet with the middle seats down. The X7 featured a split tailgate and a button to lower the suspension for easier loading. Front-seat storage included a large covered bin, wireless charging pad, and spacious cupholders.

The Genesis GV70 offered 56.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 28.9 cubic feet with them in use. It came standard with a hands-free power liftgate. The front featured decently large cupholders and a center console with a retractable lid. While front-seat passengers could easily find a comfortable position, rear-seat legroom was tighter, requiring front-row adjustments. The rear bench reclined for added comfort.

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 lacked physical buttons for frequently used features, making it less user-friendly.

The Genesis GV70 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The interface was easy to use, with large icons and logical menus. The GV70 included four USB ports, wireless charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a nine-speaker stereo. It also offered ambient lighting, a digital instrument panel, and the Genesis digital key.

The 2023 BMW X7 came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, with options for adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The highway driving assist feature was particularly appreciated for reducing driver fatigue.

The Genesis GV70 offered a full suite of driver-assistance technologies, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2.5T's Advance Package added a blind-spot camera system and a 360-degree parking camera. The Electrified GV70 included most features as standard, with the head-up display available in the Prestige trim.