2023 BMW X7 vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2023 BMW X7 underwent a significant mid-cycle makeover, drawing inspiration from the redesigned BMW 7 Series sedan. The most noticeable change was at the front, where LED accent lights replaced the previous headlights, which were now tucked underneath. The oversized kidney grille remained a polarizing feature, and the new styling was expected to be equally controversial. While BMW aimed for a bolder design, it seemed to come at the expense of grace and cohesiveness. The interior received a refresh with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen, along with a more elemental dashboard design. Interior materials were of high quality, with supple leather upholstery and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute. The X7's interior revisions gave it a modern and elegant appearance, despite the divisive exterior styling.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant departure from its predecessors with a more assertive and truck-like design. It was longer and wider, giving it a muscular stance. The classic D-pillar taillights were updated with three L shapes for a modern look, and the rear end appeared blockier to match the bold front fascia. The Sport Touring trim featured special Sport styling elements, including black roof rails, mirrors, and wheels. Inside, the CR-V Hybrid followed the design direction of the 2022 Civic and 2023 HR-V, with a honeycomb grille surrounding the climate control vents. The interior materials felt high-quality, and the contrast stitching on the seats and steering wheel added an attractive touch. Overall, the CR-V Hybrid successfully achieved a more premium feel.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup began with the base xDrive40i model, featuring a new 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain could propel the X7 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The focus of the review was on the X7 M60i model, which upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with a similar hybrid system, delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, achieving 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 on the road, with potent acceleration from the V8 and adequate performance from the six-cylinder. The ride was slightly firmer compared to other luxury SUVs, but it offered a good blend of performance and comfort.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid offered a simplified powertrain lineup, with a hybrid setup providing more power without compromising efficiency. The hybrid powertrain combined a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a two-motor hybrid-electric system, producing 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This made it the most powerful CR-V to date, with a top speed of 115 mph. The CR-V Hybrid introduced a fourth drive mode, Snow, alongside Sport, Normal, and Econ, adjusting accelerator response for different conditions. The updated Real Time AWD system could send up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels. A new "B" shifter position allowed for increased regenerative braking, enhancing fuel efficiency. The CR-V Hybrid's FWD version achieved impressive fuel economy, with 43 mpg city, 36 highway, and 40 combined.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered ample space, with the second-row seats accommodating taller passengers and a large sunroof enhancing the airy feel. Accessing the third row required some time as the power-operated middle row moved, but it provided a large opening. The third row could hold average-sized adults, though thigh support was limited. Cargo space behind the third row was 12.8 cubic feet, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with the third row stowed and 90.4 cubic feet with the middle seats folded. The X7 featured a split tailgate and a button to lower the suspension for easier loading. Front-seat passengers had adequate storage space, including a large covered bin in the center console.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid benefited from its larger exterior, translating to increased interior volume. Cargo space increased by 3 cubic feet over the 2022 model, with 36.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 76.5 cubic feet with them folded. The Sport Touring model featured a hands-free power tailgate, and all CR-Vs had wide-opening rear doors for easy access. Rear seat legroom increased to 41 inches, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The reclining rear seats offered eight positions, and headroom measured 38.2 inches in both rows. The CR-V Hybrid's interior included a cubby for smartphones, eight cupholders, and a console with best-in-class storage.

The 2023 BMW X7 featured the latest iDrive infotainment system, but it represented a step backward in some ways. Many physical buttons were eliminated, with functions moved to the infotainment screen. Voice commands were available but took time to process. While basic functions were easy to operate, more complex settings required navigating through menus. The lack of physical buttons for frequently used features was a drawback.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid retained physical buttons for important functions, with a standard 7-inch touchscreen display featuring volume and tuning knobs. The Sport Touring trim had a 9-inch touchscreen with a volume knob. Both Hybrid models included USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats. The Sport Touring trim added features like a wireless charging pad, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and Honda's smart navigation system, optimizing fuel efficiency based on the route.

The 2023 BMW X7 did not have crash test results from NHTSA or IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive list of safety features. Standard features included frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, 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 reduced driver fatigue on long trips.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid came equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, including improved collision mitigation, road-departure mitigation, and lane-keeping assist systems. New safety features included traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. The CR-V Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS and five stars from NHTSA. It featured new airbags, a stiffer structure, and increased visibility for enhanced safety.