2023 BMW X7 vs 2023 Lexus GX

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. BMW aimed for a bolder design, achieving a more commanding presence, though some felt it came 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. The 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 mixed opinions on the exterior styling.

The 2023 Lexus GX boasted a commanding presence with its massive spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned for 2023, limited to 3,000 units and available in three paint colors. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's dimensions seemed to shrink along the sides, with a short wheelbase and minimal overhangs. The interior, however, was a mix of luxury and practicality, with a disappointing amount of plastic material. The GX's V8 engine provided a satisfying swell of power, though it didn't excel on paper compared to more modern engines. The GX's off-road capabilities were impressive, with a real 4WD system and various driving-focused technologies. Despite its age, the GX continued to improve its driving dynamics, offering a communicative road feel and strong brakes.

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 allowed the X7 to reach 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The X7 M60i model 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 X7's handling was limited by its weight and ride height but remained composed and confidence-inspiring. The ride comfort was slightly firmer compared to other luxury SUVs, reflecting BMW's focus on engaging driving dynamics.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its V8 engine, offering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. While it didn't excel on paper compared to more modern engines, the GX's V8 provided a satisfying sound and linear power delivery. The GX had a 6,500-pound towing capacity, though it lagged behind other SUVs in this regard. The V8's fuel economy was a downside, with EPA estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX's weight affected its handling, with noticeable body roll, but it remained predictable and controllable. The GX's driving dynamics had improved over the years, with communicative road feel and strong brakes. The Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and 4WD system enhanced its off-road capabilities, making it user-friendly in challenging conditions.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered ample space for passengers and cargo. The second-row seats accommodated taller passengers comfortably, and the large sunroof and windows enhanced the airy feeling. Accessing the third row required some time as the power-operated middle row moved out of the way, but it provided a large opening once adjusted. The third row could hold average-sized adults, though thigh support was limited. Behind the third row, the X7 provided 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 suspension-lowering feature made loading and unloading easier. Front-seat passengers had adequate storage space, with a large covered bin, wireless charging pad, and well-sized cupholders.

The 2023 Lexus GX retained plenty of cubby space for small items, with a deep center console bin and a handy space for a phone. The cupholders were conveniently placed, though the door pockets were small. Lexus opted for hard buttons instead of haptic-touch interfaces, providing a more user-friendly experience. The center console lid had sliding mechanisms for adjustable armrests. The second row was comfortable, with captain's chairs and fold-out cupholders. The third row was tight for regular use, suitable for emergencies. The GX's trunk had a side-hinged door, requiring effort to open, and offered 11.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded and 64.7 cubic feet with both rows down.

The 2023 BMW X7 featured the latest iDrive infotainment system, though it was seen as a step backward. Basic functions like temperature adjustments and audio controls were easy to use, but many physical buttons were replaced by infotainment screen functions. Voice commands were available but took time to process and interrupted audio. The system's complexity was a drawback, and more physical buttons for frequently used features would have been appreciated.

The 2023 Lexus GX received an infotainment update in 2022, but it already felt dated. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was still present but unnecessary with the improved touchscreen. The GX included three years of Lexus Enform Remote and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. However, the touchscreen lagged, and the graphics were not as crisp as in newer Lexus models. The GX's off-road capabilities were a highlight, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, hill-start assist, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System. The Off-Road Package added features like a multi-terrain monitor and crawl control.

The 2023 BMW X7 had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it came with a comprehensive list of safety features. Standard features included frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, adaptive headlights, parking sensors, and automatic high beams. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, with options for adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward cross-traffic alerts, and a semi-automated parking function. The highway driving assist feature reduced driver fatigue on long trips.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it included advanced driver assistance systems. While it lacked some top-end features, it offered automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and automatic high beams. Despite its older design, the GX's safety features were up-to-date.