2023 BMW X7 vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 BMW X7 underwent a significant design update, particularly at the front, adopting a style reminiscent of the BMW 7 Series sedan. The new LED accent lights replaced the previous headlights, which were now recessed, and the oversized kidney grille remained a polarizing feature. While BMW aimed for a bolder design, the new look was divisive, with some finding it lacking in grace and cohesiveness. The interior saw a refresh with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen, and a more elemental dashboard design. The interior materials were of high quality, with leather upholstery and a new synthetic substitute, though some trim choices caused glare issues. Overall, the interior revisions gave the X7 a modern and elegant appearance, despite mixed reactions to the exterior styling.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a purposeful yet understated design, moving away from the boxy aesthetics of older Volvo models. The front end was solid without being flashy, and the recognizable "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern touch. The XC90's dimensions remained somewhat rectilinear, but it no longer resembled the utilitarian designs of the past. The test vehicle featured 21-inch wheels and a Platinum Gray paint with brown undertones, adding depth to its appearance. Inside, the XC90's design was elegant, with a minimalist approach and high-quality materials like Nappa leather upholstery and wood deco inlays. The interior was clean and beautiful, though the minimalist design led to some space and storage frustrations.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered two engine options, starting with the base xDrive40i model featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain could accelerate the X7 to 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 horsepower and 553 pound-feet 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, 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 maintained a good balance of performance and comfort.

For the 2023 Volvo XC90, Volvo introduced new B5 and B6 engines with mild-hybrid technology, replacing the older T5 and T6 engines. The B5 engine, with a turbocharger and mild-hybrid system, produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the B6 engine, with a supercharger and turbo, delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency slightly and provided smoother operation, though it didn't offer full-hybrid benefits. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle handled well, with minimal body roll and good insulation from road and wind noise. The brakes were solid, and the XC90's simplicity in driving dynamics appealed to those seeking a straightforward driving experience.

The 2023 BMW X7 provided ample space, with a roomy second row and a large sunroof enhancing the airy feel. Accessing the third row required some time due to the power-operated middle row, but it offered adequate head- and legroom for average-sized adults. The third-row seat cushion was lower, reducing thigh support, and lateral space was tight for adults. 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 suspension-lowering feature facilitated loading bulky cargo. Front-seat passengers had adequate storage space, with a large center console bin and well-sized cupholders.

In the 2023 Volvo XC90, the front seats provided a peaceful and pleasant experience, though the minimalist design led to limited cubby space for smaller items. The second row was comfortable and spacious, but adjusting the seats was challenging. The XC90 came standard with a second-row bench seat for seven-passenger seating, with an option for captain’s chairs at an additional cost. Accessing the third row was difficult with three seats in place, and space was limited once there. The XC90 offered 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row in position, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded and 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. The XC90 drove like a smaller car, contributing to its appeal as a three-row SUV.

The 2023 BMW X7 featured the latest iDrive infotainment system, which, despite its intuitive layout for basic functions, had drawbacks. Many physical buttons were replaced by touchscreen controls, complicating tasks like adjusting seat settings and cruise control. Voice commands offered a workaround, but they interrupted audio and took time to process. The system's reliance on touchscreen controls and lack of physical buttons for frequently used features were seen as a step backward.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's tech offering included a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display running Google OS, with features like Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant integrated. The system's natural-language recognition enhanced the user experience, and commands could be issued via Google Home devices. However, many key functions were buried within the touchscreen interface, leading to frustration. The minimalist design lacked physical buttons for essential controls, requiring screen interaction for tasks like adjusting the driver’s seat. While familiarity with the system might reduce these frustrations over time, the initial learning curve was notable.

The 2023 BMW X7 lacked crash test results from NHTSA and IIHS, but it boasted a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including 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, lane-keep assist, and a highway driving assist feature. These features performed well, with no false alarms or unpredictable responses, and the highway driving assist reduced driver fatigue on long trips.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was recognized for its safety, carrying a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS. It featured advanced driver safety tech, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, which supported Volvo’s Pilot Assist technology. These features helped maintain distance and lane position, enhancing safety and convenience. The XC90's safety reputation was bolstered by Volvo's history of innovation, including the invention of the 3-point seat belt.