BMW’s X7 handed nip and tuck for 2022

The behemoth that is the BMW X7 isn’t the oldest model in the Bavarian automaker’s X range and for the 2022 model year, the large SUV has been handed a significant makeover to keep it afloat in the respective stable.

The BMW X7 debuts with three newly-developed engines with 48V mild hybrid technology; xDrive 40i xDrive 40d and M60i xDrive. 

The most notable change on the outside is easily recognised on the newly structured front end that now features split twin-headlights and a massive BMW kidney grille. The horizontal LED light elements have now been positioned higher up while new adaptive matrix LED headlights are located below them. 

The two BMW kidney grille elements feature cascade lighting and come standard in all other model variants. The rear end boasts slim light units that now have three-dimensional sculpting while the chrome bar that connects the rear light clusters is enclosed within a glass cover. 

Opting for the M Sport package adds M-specific design features such a bespoke M Marina Bay Blue metallic paint finish for the M60i while Sparkling Copper Grey metallic shade has been added to exterior colour options.

As standard, the BMW X7 comes fitted with 20” light-alloy wheels while the range-topping models with M Sport package feature 21” M light-alloy wheels. For the first time in a BMW car, the marque offers optional 23” light-alloys. 

The interior benefits from the brand’s standard Live Cockpit Plus and includes the latest iDrive operating system. The new BMW X7 is further equipped with BMW’s Curved Display based on the BMW Operating System 8 courtesy of a 12.3” information display with a screen diagonal of 14.9”. 

The cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps can be specified as an option with Augmented View on the control display as well as an optional BMW Digital Key Plus. 

The BMW X7 comes standard with a second row that offers up to three passengers while individual seats can be had as an option. Heated comfort seats are provided as standard for the driver and front passenger.

The cabin now features a newly-designed instrument panel with slim air vents and an ambient light bar as standard. The X7 features LED units and a graphic including ‘X7’ lettering or the M logo in the M60i xDrive. 

The interior is further equipped with standard equipment such as four-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic glass sunroof, Harman Kardon sound, comfort seats for the driver and front passenger, and a Sport leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles and a new tray for the wireless charging pad. 

Equipment such as Sky Lounge panoramic glass sunroof, Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, newly designed Travel & Comfort System, Active seat ventilation and a massage function is also offered for the driver and front passenger as options. 

In terms of power, the 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six soldiers on but now with a 48V mild-hybrid system with the 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 gaining 30 kW and 71 Nm of torque totaling 259 kW and 700 Nm. 

The V8 continues to pump out 390 kW and 750 Nm while the 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbodiesel churns onwards with 195 kW and 620 Nm. The M50d still forms part of the range with 294 kW and 760 Nm of torque. All engines now benefit from the 48V mild hybrid system and are paired with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission that channels power to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive system. 

The facelifted BMW X7 is earmarked to go on sale in SA in the final quarter of the year. 

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