For 2021, BMW reshuffles the X7 lineup by dropping the 456-hp, V-8-powered xDrive50i—the 523-hp M50i continues—and adding the 612-hp Alpina XB7. The latter is the first SUV that the BMW tuning specialist has offered in the U.S. The xDrive40i's powertrain gets a 48-volt starter-generator which, surprisingly, worsens its EPA fuel-economy figures; both its city and highway ratings drop by 1 mpg.
PROS Powertrains' deliciously smooth power, interior as quiet as a library but much comfier, Alpina XB7 is hilariously quick and athletic.
CONS Excessive body roll around corners, cabin and cargo spaces are smaller than expected, power rear seats are S-L-O-W.
The 2021 BMW X7 doesn’t compromise roominess, comfort, performance, or price.
PROS Standard heated armrests, seats, steering wheel Balance of comfort and power Excellent standard features Large touchscreen Larger than competition
CONS Expensive Small cargo with all seats up Two trims, essentially
The 2021 BMW X7 comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.High-performance, ultra-plush Alpina XB7 is new to the lineup.The X7 xDrive50i trim and optional off-road package are no longer available.Limited-edition Dark Shadow model debuts with unique paint and trim.
PROS Strong engine performance Smooth ride Impeccable interior
CONS Expensive for the class Climate controls can be confusing to use Some systems don't behave as you'd expect
The Q8 debuted as a new model for the 2019 model year, so the changes are minimal for 2020. Some options were reshuffled, likely in response to customer demand, and the DVD player, which was previously located in the glovebox, has been omitted from the Q8 entirely.
Pros The cabin might as well be a design study, rides like a car, possesses the curb appeal of much pricier hardware.
Cons Losing a row of seats reduces practicality, expensive, still not as much fun as driving a sedan.
The 2020 Audi Q8's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Audi Q8 has a score of 7.9 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 21 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Handsome interior Spacious seats Composed ride and handling User-friendly infotainment system
Cons Subpar fuel economy
The 2020 Audi Q8 comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.Several previously optional features are now standard.Newly available Black Optic and S Line appearance packages.
Pros Comes well-equipped with many standard features Comfortable ride and seats for all passengers High-quality cabin materials Front and rear seats offer all-day comfort
Cons Less practical than the related Q7 Infotainment system can be distracting to use Throttle response is too slow in the default driving mode Limited interior storage
