Which BMW SUV is Right for Me: the BMW X5 or BMW X7?

When it comes to choosing a luxury SUV, you want to be sure that you make the right choice. However, it can feel challenging to find the exact model, features, and capabilities that suit you best. At Tom Bush BMW in Jacksonville, we serve Saint Augustine and beyond by making the decision-making process as easy as possible.

If you are considering the new BMW X5 and X7 and trying to decide on one, then we can help by highlighting some of the key advantages of each to help you see where you land. Keep in mind that neither is the wrong choice. However, one may meet your needs better than the other. Check out the highlighted features of both to find out which is best for you.

The BMW X5 vs. BMW X7

Design

When you look at the new X5 and X7 side-by-side, you may have some difficulty seeing the differences. While the X7 is almost 3 inches taller, the X5 is wider than the X7. You will notice some differences like the X7 has larger headlights and a larger kidney grille, but the overall exterior design is similar.

The most significant difference between the two can be found in the lower section, where you will find chrome applications for the X7 that gives it a premium look. The X7 is a foot longer than the X5, giving it the extra space needed for a third row and cargo. The front- and second-row legroom for the two SUVs are nearly identical, but the X7 offers more headroom.

Jacksonville Beach drivers can expect both more cargo space and interior volume from the X7. The X7 offers 48.6 cubic feet of space with the seats up and 90.4 cubic feet with the seats down. With the same set-ups, the X5 comes with 22.8 cubic feet and 65.7 cubic feet. As expected by Fernandina Beach drivers, the X7 offers more space, which may make the difference for family drivers.

Both models come with clamshell power hatches that allow you to access your cargo space without worrying about items rolling out of the bottom.

Performance

Both the X5 and X7 come with a standard 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine that produces 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. While you will have the same amount of power for both models, the X5 is slightly faster than the X7 with a 0-60 MPH of 5.8 seconds to the X7's 5.2 seconds. Whether it's the 456-horsepower V8 or the 523-horsepower M Performance engine, the X5 consistently has the edge on the X7 in speed.

Due to the size of the X7, you can also expect it to lean into corners more than the similarly equipped X5. While the X5 hugs the road better, the X7 comes with a two-axle self-leveling air suspension that helps to soak up any bumps or dips. If you're looking for a more engaging driving experience around the Gainesville area, the X5 may be your best bet.

Some of the performance features that the two SUV share include:

• Auto Start-Stop Function
• Driving Dynamics Control
• Trailer Hitch Prewiring
• Electronic Throttle Control
• An Eight-Speed Sport Automatic Transmission with steering-mounted paddle shifters and Launch Control

How to Choose Between the BMW X5 and BMW X7

The most significant consideration when choosing between these two SUVs is the amount of space. If you need an SUV that offers a comfortable third row and extra cargo space, then the X7 is the clear answer. If you want a more athletic driving experience, then the X5 will be a better match.

If you have more questions about each model, a test drive with one of our friendly sales experts is an excellent option to experience the differences and get the answers you need. Contact our friendly sales team today to schedule a test drive!