BMW sets new entry-point to X7 range

BMW Australia will introduce a new entry point to its X7 large SUV range from the fourth quarter of this year when the new xDrive40i variant arrives in local showrooms.

Priced from $167,900 plus on-road costs in both M Sport or Design Pure Excellence trims, the 2024 BMW X7 xDrive40i features the same equipment offered in the X7 xDrive40d but is $7000 less expensive.

Instead of diesel power, it is motivated by a six-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid (MHEV) assistance, developing 280kW and 540Nm, shaving a tenth off the 259kW/720Nm 40d’s 5.9-second 0-100km/h time.

Fuel consumption on the WLTP combined cycle is between 9.6L/100km and 10.6L/100km depending on options fitted (no Australian figure is yet quoted), compared with 8.0L/100km on the ADR combined cycle for the xDrive40d.

BMW’s new-generation MHEV technology comprises a crankshaft-mounted starter generator integrated in the transmission housing.

The generator is used as a starter motor to fire the combustion engine and recuperates kinetic energy during coasting and braking. The accompanying 48-volt battery powers the generator, stores recuperated energy and powers the on-board electrical system.

In tandem with BMW’s 3.0-litre petrol ‘six’, the combination drives all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission and intelligent all-wheel drive system, the latter also found beneath the X7 xDrive40d and M60i.

According to BMW Australia, specification highlights of the new X7 variant include standard metallic paint and M Sport styling package plus 22-inch alloy wheels and an illuminated kidney grille.

Inside is merino leather upholstery, anthracite Alcantara headlining, an alarm system, five-zone climate control, contactless opening split tailgate, integrated dashcam, comfort front seats, panorama glass roof, Parking Assistant Professional, Driving Assistant Professional, electric sunblinds and tyre pressure monitoring.

Other technology highlights include BMW Live Cockpit featuring a 14.9-inch curved display, BMW OS 8.5, Connected Package Professional, head-up display, and a 16-speaker harman/kardon surround sound system.

The X7 xDrive40i is available with option packages including the $9800 Connoisseur Suite and the $3200 M Sport Pro package.

A tow hitch is $2500, providing 3500kg braked towing capacity and 280kg tow ball down weight).

M Multifunction front-row seats are $3000, a six-seat configuration with captain’s chairs is $1500, and a Bowers and Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound system with 20 speakers and a 10-channel/1508-watt amplifier costs $8500.

In addition to eight white, grey and black standard paint finishes, the new X7 variant is also offered with three Individual metallic hues ($2400) or a matte Frozen Pure Grey finish ($5000).

Optional 22- and 23-inch alloy wheel designs are also offered, as are different upholstery and trim finishes.

2023 BMW X7 pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.