Unleashing the New BMW X7
The BMW X7 has arrived at Auckland City BMW and East Auckland BMW, and it is the latest and most imposing addition to BMW’s lineup. But it’s not just big on being big, it’s also packed with luxury, exceptional performance, cutting-edge technology, and a range of driver assistance systems to ensure maximum safety and comfort.
From the front, the X7 is instantly recognisable as a BMW. The kidney grille is the most prominent feature, and it has been enlarged to be even more imposing on the X7. The grille is flanked by two slim LED headlights that are angled to give the vehicle a more aggressive look. The front bumper is also large and gives the X7 a solid stance on the road.
Moving to the sides, the X7 has a long wheelbase and a roofline that slopes gradually towards the back. The body is sculpted with clean lines and well-defined edges that give the X7 a muscular look. The windows are large, giving passengers an excellent view of the outside world, while the side mirrors are aerodynamically designed to reduce wind noise and drag.
At the back, the X7 has a large tailgate that opens to reveal a spacious cargo area. The rear taillights are slim and extend from the sides of the vehicle towards the middle. The rear bumper is also substantial, with a diffuser that adds to the X7’s sporty appearance.
The X7 is available in several trims, each with its own unique design elements. The M Sport package, for example, adds 21-inch wheels, an M Sport exhaust system, and a unique body kit. The X7 can also be equipped with BMW’s Laserlight technology, which uses blue accents to highlight the headlights and gives the vehicle an even more futuristic appearance
The BMW X7 is available in three different engine configurations: the xDrive40i, the xDrive40d, and the M60i xDrive. The xDrive40i and xDrive40d feature a six-cylinder engine producing 250 kW/340 hp and 294 kW/400 hp respectively, while the M60i xDrive comes with a powerful V8 engine producing 390 kW/530 hp. All engines are paired with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, which provides smooth gear changes and excellent fuel efficiency.
Things might look a little intimidating on the outside but the X7 is really a big softy on the inside and delivers a smooth and comfortable ride, even on the roughest of terrains. It features an adaptive two-axle air suspension that is teamed up with electronically controlled dampers to provide excellent comfort on long journeys. The suspension is complemented by the Integral Active Steering and Executive Drive system, both of which are standard features on the X7 M60i xDrive and available as options for the six-cylinder models. The X7 also comes with active roll stabilisation to ensure a stable and smooth ride even on winding roads.
The chassis systems have been retuned to deliver a balance between sporty handling and driving comfort. The X7 M60i xDrive comes with 21-inch M light-alloy wheels and an M Sport differential at the rear, while the six-cylinder models come with 20-inch light-alloy wheels. The X7 is also the first BMW model to offer 23-inch light-alloy wheels as a factory-fitted option.
The BMW X7 comes with a wide range of driver assistance systems to enhance safety and comfort. The front-collision warning system has an extended range of functions that reduces the risk of collisions with cyclists, pedestrians, or oncoming vehicles when turning off. The optional Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function includes automatic Speed Limit Assist, route monitoring, and traffic light recognition features. The X7 also has an exit warning function that alerts occupants to a risk of collision when opening the door.
The Parking Assistant includes the Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant as standard. With the Parking Assistant Professional option, the Reversing Assistant can take over the job of steering the car for a distance of up to 200 metres. The Trailer Assistant makes it easier to execute reversing manoeuvres when towing a trailer. The new Manoeuvre Assistant can store manoeuvres covering a distance of up to 200 metres each, and when the vehicle next arrives at a memorised starting point, the Manoeuvre Assistant will be able to carry out all the tasks required to complete the manoeuvre.
And all of this smartness doesn’t stop there. The BMW X7 comes with the latest edition of the BMW iDrive control/operation system, based on BMW Operating System 8. The BMW Curved Display comprises a 12.3-inch information display and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches. The display grouping and the continually expanding skillset of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant make the new BMW iDrive geared squarely towards touch operation and gesture control as well as dialogue using natural language.
The BMW X7 is really an impressive achievement. It manages to be both commanding and elegant, with a presence that cannot be ignored. The X7 is available at Auckland City BMW and East Auckland BMW, and it is a must-see for anyone looking for a luxurious and capable SUV.
East Auckland BMW, 8 Beale Place, East Tamaki, Auckland 2013
Auckland City BMW, 7 Great South Road. Epsom, Auckland 1051
