2024 BMW X7: Performance and Standout Features

The 2024 BMW X7 represents the pinnacle of BMW’s SUV lineup, combining luxury, cutting-edge technology, and commanding performance in a full-size package. With refreshed styling, new powertrains, and advanced driver assistance systems, the X7 continues to set itself apart in the premium SUV segment. It caters to families and luxury buyers who want three rows of seating without sacrificing performance, comfort, or sophistication.

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What’s New in the 2024 BMW X7?

The 2024 BMW X7 arrives with a refined blend of power, technology, and luxury, marking one of the most significant updates in the model’s recent history. While the overall silhouette remains familiar, BMW has focused on upgrading powertrains, enhancing cabin technology, and sharpening design details, ensuring the X7 maintains its status as a flagship SUV in the luxury segment.

Updated Powertrains and Performance Enhancements

A major highlight for 2024 is the introduction of upgraded mild-hybrid powertrains across the lineup. Both the xDrive40i and M60i variants receive enhanced performance and efficiency thanks to BMW’s 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The result is smoother acceleration, better responsiveness at low speeds, and improved overall efficiency.

• xDrive40i: Now delivers more horsepower and torque than before, improving 0–60 mph times while maintaining excellent refinement.
• M60i: Retains its V8 character but benefits from hybrid assistance for sharper response and greater fuel efficiency under everyday driving conditions.
• ALPINA XB7: Continues as the ultimate expression of performance and luxury, offering exhilarating power with subtle chassis refinements.

Design Refinements and Styling

The exterior receives slight design adjustments that give the X7 a bolder yet more sophisticated presence. The signature split headlights remain a standout feature, while subtle updates to the grille and bumper design create a cleaner, more modern aesthetic. New wheel designs and paint colors further expand personalization options.

Next-Generation Cabin Technology

Inside, the 2024 X7 adopts BMW’s latest iDrive 8.5 system paired with a curved digital display, creating a seamless, futuristic cockpit. Voice control, faster processing, and expanded connectivity improve the overall user experience. Ambient lighting has been enhanced, and more advanced driver assistance features are integrated as standard on most trims.

Trim and Equipment Updates

BMW has streamlined option packages, making it easier to configure the X7 while offering more standard features. Even base models now include features previously reserved for higher trims, such as advanced navigation, wireless smartphone integration, and upgraded interior materials.

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Engine Options and Performance

The 2024 BMW X7 offers a lineup of powerful and refined engines that combine traditional BMW performance with modern mild-hybrid technology. Whether you choose the silky inline-six, the muscular V8, or the ALPINA-tuned flagship, the X7 delivers impressive acceleration, smooth power delivery, and exceptional refinement, befitting its flagship SUV status.

Powertrain Lineup

BMW equips every 2024 X7 with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, improving responsiveness and efficiency across all trims:

• xDrive40i:
  • 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with mild-hybrid assistance
  • 375 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque (up from previous years)
  • 0–60 mph in 5.6 seconds
  • Ideal for drivers who want smooth, effortless performance with strong highway passing power.
• M60i:
  • 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 with mild-hybrid technology
  • 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque
  • 0–60 mph in 4.5 seconds
  • Offers a commanding surge of power with a deep exhaust note and refined delivery.
• ALPINA XB7:
  • Hand-tuned 4.4-liter V8
  • 631 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque
  • 0–60 mph in an astonishing 3.9 seconds
  • Represents the pinnacle of performance and craftsmanship in the X7 range.

All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, ensuring optimal traction and smooth power distribution in all driving conditions.

Mild-Hybrid Benefits

The 48-volt system assists during acceleration and provides seamless engine restarts, reducing turbo lag and improving efficiency. It also allows the engine to coast at highway speeds with reduced load, enhancing both fuel economy and ride smoothness.

Driving Character

Each powertrain offers a distinct personality:

• The xDrive40i is balanced and refined, perfect for everyday luxury.
• The M60i adds muscle for those who want a sportier, more authoritative drive.
• The ALPINA XB7 pushes the boundaries, offering performance that rivals sports cars while maintaining SUV practicality.

In all versions, the X7’s power delivery is smooth, immediate, and confidence-inspiring, making it a standout among large luxury SUVs.

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Driving Experience and Handling

The 2024 BMW X7 offers a driving experience that blends powerful performance with remarkable comfort and agility, setting it apart from most full-size luxury SUVs. Despite its size and three-row layout, the X7 drives with the poise and precision expected of a BMW, while providing a serene ride that suits long journeys just as well as city commutes.

Composed and Confident Ride

At the heart of the X7’s ride quality is its adaptive two-axle air suspension, which comes standard across all trims. This system continuously adjusts damping to maintain an ideal balance between comfort and control.

• Comfort Mode: Smooths out road imperfections with a plush, luxurious feel.
• Sport Mode: Firms up the suspension, lowers the ride height, and sharpens responses for more spirited driving.
• Adaptive Setting: Actively adjusts based on road conditions and driving style, offering the best of both worlds.

Even on uneven pavement, the X7 remains composed, filtering out harsh impacts without feeling disconnected from the road.

Handling Dynamics

The X7’s precise steering and balanced chassis make it more agile than its size suggests. Optional Integral Active Steering (rear-wheel steering) further enhances maneuverability, reducing the turning radius at low speeds and improving stability during highway lane changes. When equipped with the Dynamic Handling Package, the X7 can actively reduce body roll and sharpen cornering, giving it a confidence-inspiring character rarely found in this segment.

Key handling features include:

• xDrive all-wheel drive for superior traction in all conditions.
• Active roll stabilization for reduced body lean during cornering.
• Rear-wheel steering for improved agility and high-speed stability.

Highway Cruising and Everyday Driving

The X7 truly shines on long highway journeys. Its quiet cabin, precise steering, and effortless acceleration create a relaxed, almost limousine-like cruising experience. Around town, the air suspension and rear-wheel steering make navigating tight spaces and parking surprisingly easy for a vehicle of this size.

Performance Personality Across Trims

• xDrive40i: Smooth and composed, ideal for everyday driving and comfort.
• M60i: Adds sharper throttle response and sportier handling, appealing to drivers who want more engagement.
• ALPINA XB7: Elevates the experience with performance-oriented tuning that remains impressively refined, blending speed with elegance.

In short, the 2024 BMW X7 handles like a much smaller SUV, delivering comfort and dynamic precision that few competitors can match.

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Interior Design and Comfort Features

The 2024 BMW X7 offers an interior that masterfully blends modern technology, handcrafted luxury, and functional spaciousness, making it one of the most impressive cabins in the full-size SUV segment. Every detail — from material quality to seat comfort and ambient lighting — is designed to deliver a premium experience for all three rows of passengers.

Elegant and Modern Cabin Design

The X7’s interior has been updated with BMW’s latest design language, emphasizing clean lines, a floating curved display, and ambient lighting that adds a futuristic yet elegant touch.

Key design highlights include:

• Curved Display: A single glass panel houses both the digital instrument cluster (12.3 inches) and the infotainment touchscreen (14.9 inches), creating a sleek, unified look.
• Minimalist Controls: Many physical buttons have been replaced by touch and voice controls, giving the cabin a cleaner aesthetic.
• Premium Materials: Soft-touch surfaces, genuine wood trim, and crystal accents (including the optional illuminated light bar on the dash) enhance the sense of luxury.
• Craftsmanship: High build quality and precise detailing throughout reflect the X7’s flagship status.

Seating Comfort and Versatility

The X7 is available in both six- and seven-passenger configurations, with exceptional comfort in every row.

• Front Seats: 20-way power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated seats with optional massage functions.
• Second Row: Available as either a three-seat bench or two captain’s chairs. Passengers enjoy heated seats, optional ventilation, and generous legroom.
• Third Row: Unlike many SUVs, the X7’s third row can comfortably accommodate adults for shorter trips, with its own climate controls and USB-C charging ports.

The panoramic glass roof, available with an optional illuminated Sky Lounge effect, creates an airy, open atmosphere that enhances the sense of space throughout the cabin.

Climate and Comfort Features

• Five-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized comfort for every passenger.
• Heated armrests and steering wheel, along with heated and ventilated seats in the first two rows, provide a true luxury experience in any weather.
• Acoustic insulation keeps the cabin serene, even at highway speeds, making the X7 ideal for long journeys.

Practical Luxury

Despite its opulence, the X7 remains highly practical:

• Power-folding second and third rows make configuring the cabin effortless.
• Ample storage spaces, including a large center console and concealed compartments, ensure functionality isn’t sacrificed for style.
• Door designs and wide step-in areas make access easy for passengers of all ages.

The 2024 BMW X7’s interior combines cutting-edge tech with classic luxury craftsmanship, creating a space that’s as functional as it is beautiful — a true standout in its class.

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Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance Systems

The 2024 BMW X7 integrates an extensive suite of active and passive safety technologies, designed to enhance driver awareness, support semi-automated driving, and protect all occupants in the event of a collision. BMW’s latest systems combine precision sensors, AI-based processing, and intuitive alerts, ensuring safety is seamlessly embedded into the driving experience.

Standard Safety Features

Even at the base trim, the X7 includes a comprehensive list of standard safety technologies, giving drivers peace of mind from day one:

• Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking
• Blind Spot Detection
• Lane Departure Warning with Steering Intervention
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control
• Multiple airbags covering all three rows of seating

These systems work unobtrusively, intervening only when necessary, while still keeping the driver firmly in control.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

The 2024 X7 features BMW’s Driving Assistance Professional Package, offering some of the most advanced semi-automated driving capabilities in its class:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go: Automatically adjusts speed based on traffic flow, bringing the vehicle to a complete stop and resuming when traffic moves.
• Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Centering: Gently steers the vehicle to stay centered within its lane, even on winding highways.
• Evasion Aid: Provides steering support to help avoid obstacles or vehicles during sudden maneuvers.
• Traffic Jam Assist: Handles low-speed driving in congested conditions, reducing driver fatigue in stop-and-go traffic.

These features work together to make long journeys less tiring and city driving more manageable, without feeling intrusive.

Structural Safety and Crash Protection

The X7 is built on BMW’s high-strength platform, designed to absorb and distribute impact forces efficiently.

• Rigid Passenger Cell: Protects occupants by maintaining cabin integrity during severe impacts.
• Crumple Zones: Strategically engineered to manage crash energy away from the cabin.
• Comprehensive Airbag Coverage: Includes front, side, curtain, and knee airbags for optimal protection.

Real-World Confidence

In daily driving, the safety systems are finely calibrated — warnings are precise, steering interventions are subtle, and adaptive cruise behavior is smooth. This level of refinement enhances confidence without overwhelming the driver with unnecessary alerts.

The 2024 BMW X7 stands out as one of the safest luxury SUVs, combining structural integrity with intelligent assistance features to deliver top-tier protection and peace of mind.

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Technology and Infotainment Innovations

The 2024 BMW X7 sets a new benchmark for in-cabin technology, combining next-generation digital interfaces, advanced connectivity, and seamless user experiences. With the introduction of BMW’s latest iDrive 8.5 system and an expansive curved display, the X7’s tech package is as much about elegance and usability as it is about innovation.

iDrive 8.5 and Curved Display

At the heart of the cabin is BMW’s Curved Display, which elegantly merges two screens beneath a single glass panel:

• 12.3-inch Digital Instrument Cluster provides crisp driving data and customizable layouts.
• 14.9-inch Central Touchscreen controls navigation, media, vehicle settings, and climate.

The updated iDrive 8.5 interface brings faster processing, clearer graphics, and a new QuickSelect menu, reducing the number of steps needed to access commonly used features. Drivers can interact through:

• Touchscreen inputs with smartphone-like responsiveness
• Voice commands using the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
• iDrive controller on the center console for tactile control

This multi-modal setup ensures that each driver can interact with the system in their preferred way, enhancing ease of use without distraction.

Connectivity and Digital Convenience

The X7 offers a full suite of connectivity features that turn the cabin into a digital hub:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across all trims
• 5G connectivity (in select markets) for faster data transfer and streaming
• Multiple USB-C charging ports and a wireless charging pad for seamless device integration
• BMW ConnectedDrive services, enabling remote vehicle control, real-time traffic updates, and over-the-air (OTA) software updates
• Wi-Fi hotspot capability for passenger connectivity on the go

Rear Seat Entertainment and Passenger Tech

The available Rear Seat Entertainment Professional system adds large, high-resolution displays mounted behind the front seats. Passengers can stream content, control media independently, or access navigation — turning long trips into immersive experiences. Rear passengers also benefit from USB-C ports, seat heating, ventilation options, and ambient lighting controls.

Ambient Tech and Interaction

BMW integrates technology elegantly into the X7’s interior ambiance:

• Light Bar with Ambient Illumination: Displays visual cues for climate settings, incoming calls, or driver assistance alerts.
• Gesture Control (optional): Allows drivers to control volume, accept calls, or skip tracks with simple hand movements.
• Augmented Reality Navigation: Overlays directions onto a live camera feed for intuitive guidance in complex city environments.

The 2024 BMW X7’s technology suite blends luxury with functionality, making every journey connected, personalized, and intuitive — setting a high standard for digital innovation in the luxury SUV segment.

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Fuel Efficiency and Real-World Economy

The 2024 BMW X7 balances its powerful performance with surprisingly respectable fuel efficiency, thanks to the integration of mild-hybrid systems across the lineup and BMW’s focus on optimizing drivetrain performance. While this is a large, luxury SUV, its real-world economy figures are competitive within its class, especially considering its power output and weight.

Official EPA Ratings

Fuel economy varies depending on the powertrain, but all versions benefit from 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, which assists the engine during acceleration and allows for smoother stop-start operation and coasting.

• xDrive40i: Approximately 21 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined
• M60i: Around 16 mpg city / 21 mpg highway / 18 mpg combined
• ALPINA XB7: Roughly 15 mpg city / 21 mpg highway / 17 mpg combined

These figures place the X7 in line with other full-size luxury SUVs, with the inline-six offering the best balance of performance and efficiency.

Real-World Fuel Economy

In everyday driving, many owners report numbers that are close to or slightly exceed EPA estimates under the right conditions.

• Highway cruising often delivers better-than-expected results thanks to the hybrid system’s ability to reduce engine load during steady speeds.
• City driving sees benefits from smooth stop-start operation, which helps save fuel in traffic-heavy environments.
• Driving style plays a major role: gentle throttle inputs and Eco Pro mode can noticeably improve efficiency, especially in the xDrive40i model.

Efficiency-Enhancing Features

BMW equips the X7 with several intelligent technologies designed to optimize fuel use without compromising performance:

• Eco Pro Driving Mode: Adjusts throttle response, climate control, and transmission mapping for maximum efficiency.
• Coasting Function: Allows the engine to decouple at highway speeds, reducing drag and conserving fuel.
• 48-Volt Hybrid Boost: Provides additional power during acceleration, reducing the strain on the combustion engine.
• Intelligent Route Guidance: Uses navigation data to anticipate changes in terrain and traffic, optimizing drivetrain behavior proactively.

Practical Takeaway

While the X7 is not a fuel-sipping vehicle, its real-world efficiency is commendable for its size and power, especially in the xDrive40i variant. Drivers who prioritize efficiency without sacrificing luxury and performance will find that the X7 delivers a balanced experience, aided by its hybrid systems and driving modes.

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Dimensions, Cargo Space, and Everyday Practicality

The 2024 BMW X7 offers the commanding presence and generous proportions of a flagship SUV while maintaining a surprisingly versatile and practical interior layout. With three rows of seating, clever storage solutions, and thoughtful design, it easily adapts to both family duties and luxury travel.

Exterior Dimensions

The X7’s large footprint gives it a bold road presence and contributes to its spacious interior:

• Length: 203.6 in
• Width: 78.7 in
• Height: 71.1 in
• Wheelbase: 122.2 in
• Ground Clearance: Adjustable via air suspension (approx. 8.7 in max)

These dimensions make the X7 one of the largest vehicles in BMW’s lineup, comparable in size to other premium full-size SUVs like the Mercedes GLS and Audi Q7. Thanks to rear-wheel steering, maneuverability remains excellent for its class, especially in tight urban environments.

Passenger Space and Cabin Flexibility

Inside, the X7 can be configured for six or seven passengers, offering impressive space in all three rows:

• Front Row: Luxurious and spacious, with multi-way adjustable seats and excellent visibility.
• Second Row: Available as a bench or captain’s chairs, with generous legroom, heating, ventilation, and individual climate zones.
• Third Row: More spacious than many rivals; adults can sit comfortably on shorter trips, and kids fit easily on longer journeys. USB-C charging ports and climate vents make the third row genuinely usable.

Wide door openings and the air suspension’s adjustable height make entry and exit easy, even for rear passengers.

Cargo Capacity and Practicality

The 2024 X7 provides a flexible cargo area that suits both luxury travel and everyday hauling:

• 12.8 cubic feet of space behind the third row — enough for groceries or a few suitcases.
• 48.6 cubic feet with the third row folded — ideal for luggage, strollers, or sports equipment.
• 90.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded — transforming the X7 into a spacious cargo hauler.

A split tailgate design adds practicality, allowing easy loading of heavy or bulky items. The lower section can act as a small platform, useful for tailgating or sitting.

Everyday Usability

Despite its size, BMW has equipped the X7 with several features that make daily use surprisingly manageable:

• Air suspension lowering function for easier loading and unloading.
• Surround-view camera system and parking sensors for stress-free maneuvering.
• Hands-free power tailgate for added convenience.
• Multiple interior storage compartments, including deep door pockets and a large center console.

In short, the 2024 BMW X7 blends full-size SUV dimensions with thoughtful, flexible interior design, making it equally suited to chauffeuring executives, carrying families, or handling weekend adventures.

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Common Issues and Long-Term Reliability

The 2024 BMW X7 continues to build on BMW’s reputation for engineering excellence, but like any high-end luxury SUV packed with technology, it comes with specific ownership considerations. Its engines and core mechanical components are proven and robust, but potential buyers should be aware of minor electronic quirks, software-related issues, and maintenance expectations that come with a flagship vehicle of this complexity.

Overall Reliability Outlook

BMW has refined the X7’s inline-six and V8 engines over several years, and both powertrains — especially with the 48-volt mild-hybrid system — have demonstrated excellent mechanical reliability when serviced regularly. The ZF 8-speed automatic transmission is another proven component, known for smooth operation and durability. Structural integrity and ride quality remain excellent over time, supported by BMW’s advanced air suspension.

Commonly Reported Issues

• Software and Infotainment Glitches: Some owners have reported occasional iDrive 8 system lag, screen blackouts, or sensor alerts, typically resolved through over-the-air updates or dealer reprogramming.
• Air Suspension Components: As with most air-sprung luxury SUVs, long-term wear can lead to compressor or air strut replacements, particularly beyond 60,000–80,000 miles if not maintained properly.
• Electrical Accessories: A few reports mention intermittent faults with power tailgates or rear seat entertainment systems, usually traced to wiring harness connections.
• Brake Wear: Due to the X7’s weight and strong performance, brake components can wear faster than average, especially on V8 and ALPINA variants.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

To minimize issues and ensure long-term reliability, owners should follow a disciplined maintenance routine:

• Keep iDrive software and navigation systems up to date through OTA updates.
• Inspect and service the air suspension system regularly, especially if driving in harsh climates.
• Monitor brake wear and fluid closely, given the vehicle’s weight and power.
• Address minor electrical glitches early to prevent escalation.

Long-Term Ownership Considerations

The X7 is a complex luxury vehicle, and ownership costs can be higher than mid-size SUVs due to parts pricing, specialized servicing, and technology density. However, with proper care, many X7s demonstrate strong reliability over 100,000+ miles. Extended warranties or maintenance plans are often worthwhile investments to mitigate unexpected repair costs.

Overall, the 2024 BMW X7 shows strong mechanical reliability, with most issues being software or wear-related rather than critical drivetrain failures. For buyers who stay on top of regular servicing, it remains a dependable and rewarding long-term vehicle.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What engine options are available for the 2024 BMW X7?

The 2024 X7 offers three powertrain options, all with 48-volt mild-hybrid systems. The xDrive40i uses a 3.0-liter inline-six producing 375 hp, the M60i has a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 523 hp, and the ALPINA XB7 delivers 631 hp from a hand-tuned V8. All are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive.

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How fast is the X7 compared to other luxury SUVs?

The X7 is among the quickest full-size luxury SUVs. The xDrive40i accelerates from 0–60 mph in 5.6 seconds, the M60i in 4.5 seconds, and the ALPINA XB7 in just 3.9 seconds — on par with some sports cars. This performance is delivered with refinement and stability, even at high speeds.

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Is the 2024 X7 fuel-efficient for its size?

Yes, relatively. Thanks to mild-hybrid technology, the xDrive40i achieves around 21 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined, while the V8 models return between 16–18 mpg combined. Real-world results are often close to these figures, especially on long highway drives with Eco Pro mode activated.

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How comfortable is the interior for third-row passengers?

Unlike many competitors, the X7’s third row is genuinely usable. Adults can sit comfortably for shorter trips, and children fit easily on longer journeys. The third row has its own climate controls, USB-C ports, and easy access via power-folding second-row seats, making it ideal for families.

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What safety features does the X7 offer?

The 2024 X7 comes standard with a full suite of active safety technologies, including automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and more. Optional packages add adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering, evasion aid, and semi-automated driving features for highway travel.

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Are there any common problems to be aware of?

Most reported issues involve infotainment software glitches or occasional air suspension component wear over time, not major mechanical failures. Regular software updates and proper maintenance of the suspension system greatly reduce these risks.

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What is the maintenance schedule like for the 2024 X7?

Oil changes are recommended every 10,000 miles, with more extensive services at 20,000–60,000 miles depending on driving conditions. The vehicle’s Condition Based Service system provides reminders tailored to your usage, and BMW offers Ultimate Care and extended maintenance plans for cost predictability.

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How does the X7 compare to rivals like the Mercedes GLS or Audi Q7?

The X7 distinguishes itself with superior driving dynamics, cutting-edge tech, and class-leading performance. While the GLS focuses on luxury softness and the Q7 leans toward understated elegance, the X7 combines agility, power, and technology in a way few competitors match.

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Is the 2024 BMW X7 a good long-term investment?

Yes, for buyers who stay on top of maintenance. Its proven powertrains, strong resale value, and comprehensive tech make it a rewarding long-term vehicle. Extended maintenance plans can further reduce ownership costs for complex components like the air suspension and driver assistance systems.