By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / photos BMW US Press Information
For 2020, BMW launches the BMW X7 M50i, the pinnacle of BMW’s X Sport Activity Vehicle lineup. The BMW X7 M50i builds on the class leading comfort, handling, safety and technology of all the previous BMW X Sport Activity Vehicles.
Exterior
BMW has pulled back the covers on a new definition of automotive luxury. The BMW X7 50Mi blends presence, exclusivity and spaciousness with the versatile and agile driving properties customers would expect from a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle. The newest and largest model in the BMW X line-up uses outstanding powertrain options and chassis technology, plus generous levels of space in each of its three rows of seats, a luxurious ambience and advanced equipment features, to deliver unparalleled experiences for the driver and passengers.
The sizeable dimensions also expressed at the rear, which is broken up by horizontal lines and bordered by vertical separating edges. The slim LED rear lights provide a clear segmentation of the rear. Bridging the space between the two units is a chrome bar a design cue only previously encountered at the rear of the BMW 7 Series luxury sedan.
Model-specific designer features serve to emphasize the exclusive and sporty nature of the new BMW X7 M50i the moment you see it. The extra-large air inlets in the front apron are a clear indication of the V8 engine’s cooling requirements. The unique design of the side sills and rear apron, the BMW individual high-gloss Shadow Line, and selected design elements in Cerium Grey similarly serve to underline the outstanding status of the 8-cylinder models.
Interior
The impressive open expanse of the interior brings a new sensation of space to the luxury segment. The three rows of seats treat the driver and passengers to an exceptional feeling of roominess within the elegantly appointed interior surroundings. Expansive surfaces and clean structures give the instrument panel a modern look and its lines flow smoothly into the door panels. Large trim surfaces framed with electroplated accents on the instrument panel and center console enhance the interior’s elegant and exclusive aura.
The roominess and versatility of the interior is underlined by the standard fitment of three rows of seats. The two passengers in the third row can settle into full-size seats that are fully capable of accommodating adult passengers over longer journeys. Comfort levels here are enhanced by an additional rear glass sunroof panel, cup holders and armrests integrated into the side panel trim. The second-row configuration offers two extremely comfortable individual Captain’s Chairs. These comfort seats offer the same range of adjustments as the seats for the driver and front passenger. The individual seats for the second row also feature integrated armrests and comfort cushions.
The interior of the top model of the BMW X family features a gear selector lever displaying the M logo, Vernasca leather upholstery with contrast stitching and perforated surfaces and interior strips in Aluminum Tetragon or Fineline Black precious wood finish with high-gloss metallic effect, together ensuring a luxurious feel with a sporty touch.
Performance
The 4.4 litre drive unit of the new BMW X7 M50i emphasize the characteristic features of the 8-cylinder engines in terms of power development and torque to an outstanding degree. The new V8 engine turns in a very impressive level of performance whether you prefer cruising calmly and confidently at low engine speeds or pulling out all the performance stops and laying down some sporty acceleration maneuvers.
In addition, the new V8 engine responds with great sensitivity to every movement of the accelerator pedal. The engine already generates its maximum torque of 750 Nm at 1800 rpm and it remains available up to an engine speed of 4600 rpm. Accordingly, the power output is as strident as you would expect it to be. The maximum value of 390 kW/530 hp is activated between 5 500 and 6000 rpm. As a result, the new BMW X7 M50i can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds.
The new V8 engine is combined as standard with an 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission, characterized by highly dynamic gear shift properties. Shift paddles are mounted near the steering wheel for manual control of the choice of gear. The Launch Control function enables traction-optimized acceleration with maximum dynamic performance from standing.
The latest version of the BMW xDrive system distributes the engine torque between the front and rear wheels in a manner that enables it to adapt quickly and precisely to the road conditions. The intelligent all-wheel drive system increases the agility and supreme traction as much as it enhances the driving stability in all weather and road conditions.
Summary
The new BMW X7 M50i combines the characteristic features of the successful BMW X family, exclusivity, robustness, agility and everyday usability with the commitment to high performance that defines an M vehicle. The latter is resoundingly highlighted by the vehicles’ impressive performance figures.
The 2020 BMW X7 M50i will be offered at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $99,600.00, the one I drove included the Executive Package $1,300.00, Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System $3,400.00, Second-Row Captain’s Chairs $850.00, Cold Weather Package $1,200.00, Dynamic Handling Package $3,400.00, and it came in at $109,750.00. The EPA fuel economy estimates 15 MPG City and 21 MPG Highway.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
