BMW M Series X7 M50i (A) First Drive Review

You'd think that an SUV like the BMW X7 is far too big for a place like Singapore. And to a certain extent, you won't be wrong. At 5,151mm x 2,000mm x 1,801mm (L x W x H), the car is a humongous machine that will easily overshadow most vehicles here.

But, therein lies the car's biggest feat - ample comfort and space.

Fit for royalty

What I'm talking about here is the fact that with size comes space. The 3,105mm wheelbase of the X7 offers plenty of legroom for all seven occupants on board (six for our test car here) while headroom remains to be more than ample when compared to its peers such as the Audi Q7 and the Mercedes-Benz GLS.

But more than just space, the X7 M50i we tested is a surprisingly comfortable SUV. Despite having a stiffer suspension than the regular variant and a set of gigantic 22-inch wheels, the car is wonderfully comfortable. As a matter of fact, it's so comfortable that I managed to partially complete some of my work in the car while my partner was happily speeding down the autobahn.

It manages to soak up all the incomplete and broken tarmac with a sort of stride that resembles a much smaller car. You do not get the wobbles and insecurity that large SUVs often portray.

Ample thrill

When it comes to big open roads, the X7 swallows up tarmac like a shark in the ocean - smooth, swift and steady. Floor the right pedal and the car weighing over 2.3 tonnes will react immediately to your input and gun towards the horizon. The 4.9-second century sprint timing is absolutely believable here, and it does so with such a lovely exhaust note that's worthy of a concert hall rendition.

Needless to say, you cannot deny the laws of physics when it comes to such a huge vehicle. Even if the X7 has the capability of holding its own around bends, body roll is inevitable. Plus, diving from the nose of the car is constantly felt every time you attempt to tackle the countless bends at the alps of Munich, Germany.

Still, with all its imperfections, the X7 M50i will nevertheless keep you entertained with its juicy drivetrain. The 4.4-litre V8 underneath the bonnet provides a mouth-watering 523 horses and 750Nm of torque to all four wheels via a peerless smooth-shifting eight-speed autobox.

Can I get one in Singapore?

It's hard to resist such a car that provides you with such a perfect combination of space, pace and grace. Unfortunately, according to BMW, the X7 M50i isn't available for sale in Singapore. However, I do suspect that if you're well-heeled enough, you could throw your weight around and demand the carmaker to indent one for you and your family.

However, if this isn't for you, good news await. The refreshed BMW X7 that was recently launched will be available in Singapore in the fourth quarter of 2022. For the wait, you do get new looks (split headlamps that resemble the BMW i7) to match new cabin tech (an extended screen across the dash like the BMW iX).

Whatever you decide, trust me. As a family man who is in love with cars, there isn't such a thing as an SUV that's too thrilling or too big for a place like Singapore.
 
 
Looking for a seven-seater SUV, but can't seem to make up you mind? Here are some viable options:

The Kia Sorento is a strong family hauler

Hyundai Palisade is a royal palace on wheels

Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is a fine family hauler

The Audi Q7 is one luxurious barge

Volvo XC90 T6 R-Design has punch and panache