One of the most frequent questions we get from SUV shoppers at BMW of Gwinnett Place is: “what’s the difference between the BMW X5 and X7?” While there’s not necessarily a simple answer to the question, “Which is better: BMW X5 or X7,” either model is sure to make your drives through Atlanta and Decatur better than ever before. We’ll help you learn more about what is the difference between the BMW X5 and X7.
BMW SUV Comparison: Price and Features
2021 BMW X5 models start at $59,400 MSRP making it the more affordable option compared to the 2021 BMW X7, which starts at $74,900 MSRP. However, those who decide to pay the X7 price will certainly get more in return.
In fact, the following features all come standard on the X7, but cost extra on the X5:
- A hands-free, auto-opening liftgate
- 12-way power front seats (compared to 10-way on the X5)
- xDrive all-wheel drive
BMW SUV Comparison: Performance and Capability
What is the difference between the BMW X5 and X7 in terms of performance? If you opt for the standard model in both cases, you’ll enjoy 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque as standard. Both models also offer the same 523-hp 4.4-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo V-8 if you decide to upgrade to their M configurations.
While their engines are somewhat similar, you should expect some differences in capabilities, including:
- The smaller X5 is slightly more efficient in its base configuration, offering 23 mpg in combined city/highway settings compared to the X7 SUV’s 21.
- The X5 is offered in a plug-in hybrid configuration, the X5 xDrive45e. The X7, for its own part, is newly available in an ultra-luxurious ALPINA configuration.
- With the BMW XB7 ALPINA, you’ll receive a 4.4-liter BMW ALPINA Bi-Turbo V-8 with 612 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque–a truly peerless option in this BMW SUV comparison.
BMW SUV Comparison: Interior Design and Capacities
When you’re comparing the BMW X5 vs. X7, it’s important to know that the X7 offers seven seats as standard. In fact, when people ask “what is the difference between the BMW X5 and X7?” we mention that it’s the biggest difference between the two models. While the BMW X5 can be optioned with a third row, there’s no doubt that the BMW X7 is larger and more spacious either way. Here’s exactly what sets them apart:
- Even with all three rows of seating upright, the X7 provides up to 48.6 cubic feet of cargo space. The X5 offers 56.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats up, but adding the available third row will reduce your capacity.
- The X7 is available with second-row captain’s chairs. Although this luxurious option will reduce your total seating capacity to six, they’ll make longer drives much more enjoyable, especially for adult and teenaged passengers.
It’s also important to note that the X5 can tow up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped, and the X7 can tow up to 7,500 pounds. Both are well-suited for Lawrenceville and Swanee adventures.
Find Your New BMW SAV® at BMW of Gwinnett Place
Are you ready to compare the BMW X5 vs. X7 for yourself, want to learn about the BMW X5 towing capacity, BMW X7 price and configurations, our certified pre-owned BMW X5 models, to compare the BMW X3 vs. BMW X5, learn about the BMW X5 price and trims, or interested in learning more about the BMW X5 interior? Our financing experts are always happy to help, whether you’re interested in buying or leasing one of our BMW X Models.
