If you're in the market for a premium SUV from the BMW stable, two names instantly pop up the BMW X5 and the BMW X7. Both SUVs are feature-loaded, powerful, and carry the German marque's legacy of performance and precision. But which one should you park in your driveway?
In this comparison, we break down the BMW X5 vs BMW X7 on all crucial fronts, features, price, space, performance, and value so you can decide which SUV best fits your lifestyle and budget.
Feature Comparison: X5 vs X7
Here’s a feature-by-feature comparison between both SUVs based on the latest models available in India :
Feature |
BMW X5 |
BMW X7 |
Seating Capacity |
5-Seater |
6/7-Seater (with captain seat option) |
Third-Row Usability |
Not available in India |
Standard, usable for adults |
Panoramic Sunroof |
Yes |
Yes (with Sky Lounge LED lighting) |
Display Setup |
Curved Display (12.3” + 14.9”) |
Curved Display (12.3” + 14.9”) + Rear Screens |
Climate Control |
4-Zone |
5-Zone |
Audio System |
Harman Kardon (16 speakers) |
Harman Kardon / Optional Bowers & Wilkins |
Suspension |
Adaptive Air Suspension (Optional) |
Adaptive Air Suspension (Standard) |
Drive Modes |
Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ |
Same |
Ambient Lighting |
Standard |
Enhanced with Light Bar and Sky Lounge Roof |
Parking Assist |
Yes (360° camera, remote park) |
Yes (advanced with self-parking feature) |
Verdict: Both SUVs are tech-rich, but the X7 adds an extra layer of luxury and rear-seat comfort, especially if you're chauffeur-driven or need a proper third row.
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Price Comparison (Ex-Showroom India)
Variant | BMW X5 Price | BMW X7 Price |
---|---|---|
xDrive40i xLine (Petrol) | ₹97.80 lakh | ₹ 1.33 Crore |
xDrive40i M Sport (Petrol) | ₹1.10 crore | ₹1.31 crore |
xDrive30d M Sport (Diesel) | ₹1.12 crore | ₹1.35 crore |
Verdict: The X7 commands a ₹25–₹30 lakh premium over the X5. If budget is a priority and you don’t need three rows, the X5 offers excellent value.
Sales & Segment Positioning
- The BMW X5 is BMW’s global bestseller in the SUV category and among the top-selling luxury SUVs in India.
- The BMW X7, though pricier, has carved a niche as the go-to choice for buyers seeking a flagship three-row SUV with limousine-like comfort.
Real Buyer Profile:
- X5 Buyers: Urban professionals, enthusiasts, and nuclear families.
- X7 Buyers: HNIs, business owners, large families, or those looking for a luxury SUV to be chauffeured in.
Performance & Engine Options
Engine Type |
BMW X5 |
BMW X7 |
Petrol (xDrive40i) |
3.0L I6 Turbo (381 hp / 520 Nm) – 5.4s* |
Same – 5.8s* |
Diesel (xDrive30d/40d) |
3.0L I6 Turbo (286 hp / 650 Nm) – 6.1s* |
3.0L I6 Turbo (340 hp / 700 Nm) – 5.9s* |
Gearbox |
8-Speed Automatic with AWD |
8-Speed Automatic with AWD |
Suspension |
Steel (Standard), Air (Optional) |
Adaptive Air (Standard) |
*0–100 km/h figures
Verdict: The X5 feels sportier and more agile; the X7 is built for smooth, long-distance cruising with superior ride quality.
Boot Space & Practicality
Layout |
BMW X5 |
BMW X7 |
With all seats up |
~650L |
~326L (with 3rd row) |
With rear seats folded |
~1,870L |
~2,120L |
Hands-free Tailgate |
Yes |
Yes (split opening) |
Verdict: The X5 offers more usable boot space in daily use, but the X7 wins in max cargo flexibility and passenger-cargo balancing.
Ownership & Running Costs
Parameter |
BMW X5 |
BMW X7 |
Fuel Efficiency (ARAI) |
~12 km/l (petrol) / 14 km/l (diesel) |
~11.3 km/l (petrol) / 13.5 km/l (diesel) |
Service Costs |
₹1.25 – ₹1.5 lakh/year (avg) |
₹1.5 – ₹2 lakh/year (avg) |
Warranty |
2 years/unlimited km (extendable) |
Same |
Service Packages |
BMW Service Inclusive (5 years) |
Same |
Verdict: While both are expensive to maintain, X5 ownership is relatively more cost-effective and offers slightly better mileage.
Choose BMW X5 If...
- You want a sporty, city-friendly SUV with excellent driving dynamics.
- You’re a family of 4–5 and don’t need a third row.
- You’re looking for better value-for-money in the ₹1 Cr segment.
- You prefer a car that's more agile in traffic and easier to park.
Choose BMW X7 If...
- You need true 6- or 7-seat practicality with adult-usable third row.
- You prioritize rear-seat comfort or have a chauffeur.
- You want maximum luxury, space, and presence no compromises.
- Budget is flexible and you’re okay spending above ₹1.3 Cr.
Final Thoughts
Both the BMW X5 and X7 excel in their own space. The X5 is perfect for those who want a versatile, sporty SUV that doesn't compromise on luxury. It’s ideal for urban professionals and smaller families. On the other hand, the X7 is the pinnacle of BMW’s SUV luxury a true flagship for those who want all the space, technology, and features money can buy in an SUV format.
So, the question isn’t which is better but which fits your life better.
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