BMW Thailand invited the media to the mountainous province of Chiang Rai for an ultimate driving experience with BMW's high-performance vehicles, including the BMW X7 xDrive40d M Sport, which was locally assembled.
The test drive trip provided an extraordinary experience with the diesel engine and plug-in hybrid, while also allowing for the enjoyment of BMW’s innovative technology.
The new X7 is yet another state-of-the-art sports activity vehicle (SAV) in locally assembled form. Combining agility, lavish presence and spaciousness in one vehicle, the largest member of the X family dominates the road with its excellent powertrain while retaining unparalleled comfort through its generous levels of space.
Powered by a 6-cylinder diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and 48V mild hybrid technology, producing up to 340hp with a peak torque at 700Nm at 1,750–2,250rpm and a top speed of 243kph, accelerating from 0–100kph in only 6.1secs. The powerful engine works in tandem with an 8-speed steptronic sport transmission, adaptive two-axle air suspension and the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system.
MILD HYBRID TECHNOLOGY
In addition to the Euro5 diesel engine and the anti-pollution additive AdBlue, the new X7 is the first vehicle assembled at Plant Rayong to feature 48V mild hybrid technology, which works in conjunction with the diesel engine and to provide an even more environmentally friendly driving experience than a typical diesel engine. The 48V starting generator provides an additional electric boost of 11hp during the vehicle’s start and acceleration. AdBlue, an additive that breaks down nitrogen oxide to reduce pollution, allows drivers to enjoy the dynamic power while also reducing environmental impact.
Characteristics
The new X7 is accentuated through BMW’s distinct and modern design language. The M Sport package brings an extra sporting aura that adds to the car’s already commanding presence, while the exhaust system provides appropriately resonant notes to match its engaging combination of power and elegance. The package also comes with M Sport brakes and leather steering wheel, both of which complete the vehicle’s attitude and personality.
Exterior
The X7’s massive kidney grille and BMW Laserlight give the vehicle a high-impact presence and harmonious proportions. Design precision, precisely structured surfaces and athletic styling gives the X7 a dynamic feel, which is further evident in the 22-inch alloy wheels with a bicolour Y-spoke design.
Interior
The X7 has three rows of seats that can fit up to seven people, with each seat electrically adjustable to ensure maximum convenience for driver and passengers.
Front seats are equipped with active ventilation and massaging. Extended Merino leather and fine-wood trim in fineline black with a high-gloss metal effect convey a sense of authority and elegance in the interior. With the CraftedClarity glass application, ambient lighting, a panorama glass roof, five-zone automatic air conditioning and rear seat entertainment with two displays for backseat passengers, the sumptuous atmosphere of the inside is further heightened. In addition to the enormous trunk space of 750-1,050 litres when the third or second row is folded, the X7 delivers a versatile ride for any occasion.
Advanced Driving Assistance
The X7 offers numerous advanced driver assistance systems, including parking and driving assist, as well as the most up-to-date infotainment and connectivity features BMW offers, including its Live Cockpit Professional with a 12.3-inch control display, Bluetooth and a personal assistant with voice command.
Automated driving combines with the parking assist to help drivers fit in confined spaces with limited visibility. If there’s room, the X7’s AI will get you in. The vehicle also can store steering movements for up to 50m allowing it to reverse-trace its stops in order to exit that same parking spot.
The X7 has a lot going for it, but with only a few hours of driving time, it’s not possible to go into great depth. But it is enough to point out some positive features.
The diesel engine is remarkably smooth and quiet. The 340hp inline-6 engine’s acceleration is a bit of a treat. It’s more fun to drive when the suspension can be adjusted.
While driving at speeds of nearly 200kph, the M sport brakes are essential, as they’re placed on both the front and rear axles.
When the stakes are high, it’s a safe bet that this is a fantastic family car.
Keyword: Elegance and utility