2023 BMW X7 vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2023 BMW X7 underwent a significant mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bold new front-end design reminiscent of the BMW 7 Series sedan. This redesign included repositioned LED accent lights and recessed headlights, which, combined with the oversized kidney grille, resulted in a polarizing appearance. While the new styling aimed for a bolder look, 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, featuring supple leather upholstery and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute. Despite the controversial exterior, the interior revisions gave the X7 a modern and elegant appearance.

In contrast, the 2024 BMW X5 retained its well-aged styling, though the M Sport treatment was less favored. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine. The xDrive50e PHEV model, in particular, impressed with its Brooklyn Grey paint, optional 21-inch wheels, and comprehensive equipment packages. The interior featured BMW's Curved Display instrumentation and infotainment screen, reducing physical switchgear and modernizing the cabin. Despite these updates, the X5 maintained a connection to its past with high-quality materials and construction.

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, delivering 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, producing 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, with potent acceleration and composed cornering. The ride was slightly firmer compared to other luxury SUVs, reflecting BMW's focus on driver engagement.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced new mild-hybrid six-cylinder and V8 engines, with the xDrive50e PHEV model offering a substantial upgrade in electric range and power output. The PHEV featured a more powerful electric motor and a 19.2 kWh battery, providing 38 miles of electric-only driving and 22 mpg in combined driving. The xDrive50e delivered 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, reaching 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV excelled in efficiency, achieving 38.8 mpg during a 95.5-mile evaluation drive. Equipped with adaptive damping air suspension, the X5 offered excellent ride quality and handling, making it a delight to drive in various conditions.

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 due to the power-operated middle row, but it provided adequate head- and legroom for average-sized adults. Cargo space behind the third row measured 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.

The 2024 BMW X5 provided room for five people in two rows, with a 33.1 cubic-foot cargo area expanding to 71.2 cubic feet with the back seat folded. The split liftgate design offered a convenient seating area but required stretching to reach deep cargo. The X5 featured standard Sensafin artificial leather upholstery and sport seats, with the Climate Comfort Package adding 20-way power-adjustable front seats, four-zone climate control, and heated features. The panoramic sunroof and side window sunshades enhanced rear-seat comfort. The X5 no longer offered an optional third-row seat, unlike the X7.

The 2023 BMW X7 featured the latest iDrive infotainment system, which, despite its intuitive layout, represented a step backward due to the elimination of physical buttons. Basic functions were easy to operate, but more complex tasks required navigating through menus. Voice commands offered a workaround, but they interrupted audio and took time to process. The system's reliance on voice controls highlighted the need for more physical buttons and intuitive menus.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Running BMW Operating System 8.5, the system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and over-the-air updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, leading to inaccurate directions and responses. Despite this, the head-up display and augmented video function for navigation were effective, though the reduction in physical controls was less favorable.

The 2023 BMW X7 lacked crash test results from NHTSA and IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, with options for adaptive cruise control and highway driving assist. These features performed well, reducing driver fatigue on long trips.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, which required deliberate activation. It worked well in specific conditions but could behave unpredictably in moderate traffic. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance were effective, though occasional errant braking occurred. The X5 received high ratings from IIHS, but lower headlight ratings prevented an award. NHTSA gave it a four-star overall crash-test rating.