BMWX7 a bigger, better SUV choice

Big. Beautiful. First-class. We’ve driven many seven- passenger SUVs lately, including the Cadillac XT6, Volvo XC90, and Lexus GX460, but the mack-daddy in sport utility — or should we say sport activity? — is the behemoth, the BMW X7.

Think about a 7-series sedan but in sport utility form, delivering large, comfy luxury, a huge engine and tons of cargo space.

Produced in BMW’s Greenville- Spartanburg, S.C., plant, where the X-series SAVs are built, the Xfamily finally gains a sevenpassenger vehicle that tops the charts in so many categories.

A recent test of the BMW M850i confirmed that BMW’s “Ultimate Driving Machine” mantra is just that — vehicles specifically designed around the driver, where driving is a pleasure. On the X7, BMW continues to deliver that feeling. The X7 is quiet, comfortable, roomy, powerful, and goodlooking. Are they missing anything in a vehicle?

A substantially larger kidney-shaped grille and boisterous LED laser-light headlights grace the X7, which handily out- competes against the Range Rover Sport and Mercedes

Benz GLS550.

The ride is beyond heavenly. The 5,950-pound monster has an unbelievable, cloud-like suspension that is akin to sitting on your couch. Tire sizes for the X7 are 295/40R22 on the front and 315/35/22 on the rear. It is so smooth, I challenge you to find something that rides better, because this tops the list for me.

Second-row power captain’s chairs were only an $850 option on our X7M50i tester, and they were glorious. Even the third row provided plenty of room for additional people as well as excellent cargo space, coming in at 48.6 cubic ft. — and 90.4 cubic ft. with all the seats folded.

Powering the X7 is our favorite V8, the 4.4L twinturbo M Performance 32-valve DOHC VVC, granting an astounding 523 hp and plenty of torque thrust at 553 lb.-ft. The smooth and transition-less eightspeed automatic is superb and a great combination for the 4.4L V8, while all-wheeldrive is also standard.

Accoutrements for the interior are grandish with an upgraded leather dash, luxurious wood trim, crystal “M” performance shifter and excellently designed rear hatch, offering a 70/30 split. Finally, you already know we love the 3 year/36,000 mile BMW Ultimate Care, a three-year maintenance program included in your purchase price. BMWX7 MSRP: $99,600 As tested: $113,845 MPG: 15city, 21highway, 19.4as tested

MARC GRASSO — BOSTON HERALD The BMW X7M50i is a standout performer, a seven-passenger sport activity vehicle that makes driving a pleasure.

MARC GRASSO — BOSTON HERALD The 5,950-pound BMW X7M50i has a 4.4L V8, all-wheel drive and an ultra-smooth ride. The seats are exceedingly comfortable and the features inside include a leather dash.