[buckybadger]

Hi Everyone,

I was all set to buy the new X5 but the price difference of X5 vs. X7 is around $8K and I will need the 3rd row in future. Therefore, I have started looking at the X7 now.

I am stuck between luxury vs. M sport trim. When I spec the X7 with luxury, It comes to $80K at MSRP but with M sport, it is $85K.

Therefore, I am contemplating if the extra $3-5K is worth or not, depending on if I get the Merino leather with M sport. Also how does the car handle with the M sport suspension? or do you recommend to get the luxury suspension?

For a 3 or 5 series or even an X5, it makes sense to got for an M sport model. But for a large SUV like the X7, I am having some trouble justifying the extra cost of $3-5K and whether it adds any real benefit.

Please share your experience and recommendations. Thanks!

Here are the builds that I am interested in:
https://www.bmwusa.com/build-your-ow...yb7lzf/summary
https://www.bmwusa.com/build-your-ow...y5qd6o/summary

[CruiseControl]

I see you're in CA and will not need to worry about winter tires so I would go for the MSport Model. I cannot tell you the difference in driving characteristics but own an 40i MSport and drove the luxury and really could not tell a difference since I did not drive either aggressively but like the look of the MSport.

[buckybadger]

Originally Posted by CruiseControl

I see you're in CA and will not need to worry about winter tires so I would go for the MSport Model. I cannot tell you the difference in driving characteristics but own an 40i MSport and drove the luxury and really could not tell a difference since I did not drive either aggressively but like the look of the MSport.

Thanks, also is merino leather worth the upgrade?

How's the SUV in your opinion? Are you happy with it?

I read some articles that it has some flaws but not sure to trust anything online these days.

[xueju1121]

Luxury vs M Sport. I believe the only differences are cosmetic.

If you option the Dynamic Handling Package, it will add anti titling function, road preview as well as rear axis steering and M Rear differential. The DHP will make a bigger difference in term of driving dynamic.

[buckybadger]

Originally Posted by xueju1121

Luxury vs M Sport. I believe the only differences are cosmetic.

If you option the Dynamic Handling Package, it will add anti titling function, road preview as well as rear axis steering and M Rear differential. The DHP will make a bigger difference in term of driving dynamic.

Thanks, it looks like M sport is recommended then. However, I don't see anywhere that X7 has DHP. Am I missing anything?

Thanks!

[p.o.t.u.s]

I assume you are looking at the 40i, since you cannot choose m-sport vs luxury on the 50i or m50i. For the 40i, M-SPORT is just cosmetic.

DHP is a package you must select. I did on mine. But, neither the DHP package, nor M-SPORT package add the M rear differential.

[xueju1121]

Originally Posted by buckybadger

Thanks, it looks like M sport is recommended then. However, I don't see anywhere that X7 has DHP. Am I missing anything?

Thanks!

DHP is a package you must select. Not so many inventory vehicles from dealer has it. And yes, if you are looking at 40i then M rear differential is not available.

[buckybadger]

Originally Posted by p.o.t.u.s

I assume you are looking at the 40i, since you cannot choose m-sport vs luxury on the 50i or m50i. For the 40i, M-SPORT is just cosmetic.

DHP is a package you must select. I did on mine. But, neither the DHP package, nor M-SPORT package add the M rear differential.

Might as well get luxury then over M sport if only cosmetic.

[p.o.t.u.s]

Originally Posted by buckybadger

Might as well get luxury then over M sport if only cosmetic.

That’s what I did. Got DHP with the luxury trim.

[buckybadger]

Originally Posted by p.o.t.u.s

That’s what I did. Got DHP with the luxury trim.

Thanks, I could not find it he DHP on the bmwusa configurator. Is this a special option that needs to be requested?

[buckybadger]

Thanks, I found it, never mind!

[nubova]

M Sport is purely cosmetic in the 40i.

On the 50i, it is mostly cosmetic only, but the m sport’s engine is tuned to be slightly more sporty and you get a louder exhaust.

As others have said, DHP is what makes the SUV sportier and handle better, whether looking at a 40i or 50i.

[gdurhamski]

Originally Posted by buckybadger

Thanks, I found it, never mind!

You also should look to add the Alcantara headliner as that is included with Msport package. Extended merino is worth it IMO. I parted out the DHP and only took the 2axle steering and M sport brakes saves around $2k. Like the leather dash as well.

[CruiseControl]

Originally Posted by buckybadger

Thanks, also is merino leather worth the upgrade?

How's the SUV in your opinion? Are you happy with it?

I read some articles that it has some flaws but not sure to trust anything online these days.

I really like it and I'm coming from a Mercedes GLS 450. The x7 is so much better in every way. I also got DHP. I did not get Merino leather but others here seem to love it. You just cannot go wrong with this vehicle, in my opinion.

[Wild Blue]

I think the luxury vs. sport styling is a matter of personal taste. For me, I prefer the slightly more sporty and aggressive look of the M-sport package body pieces, as well as the reduction in chrome, and the increase in cost is worth it to me.

[Missduvy]

Originally Posted by buckybadger

Hi Everyone,

I was all set to buy the new X5 but the price difference of X5 vs. X7 is around $8K and I will need the 3rd row in future. Therefore, I have started looking at the X7 now.

I am stuck between luxury vs. M sport trim. When I spec the X7 with luxury, It comes to $80K at MSRP but with M sport, it is $85K.

Therefore, I am contemplating if the extra $3-5K is worth or not, depending on if I get the Merino leather with M sport. Also how does the car handle with the M sport suspension? or do you recommend to get the luxury suspension?

For a 3 or 5 series or even an X5, it makes sense to got for an M sport model. But for a large SUV like the X7, I am having some trouble justifying the extra cost of $3-5K and whether it adds any real benefit.

Please share your experience and recommendations. Thanks!

Here are the builds that I am interested in:
https://www.bmwusa.com/build-your-ow...yb7lzf/summary
https://www.bmwusa.com/build-your-ow...y5qd6o/summary

The only difference between the 2 trims is cosmetic. You can spec the driving components to be exactly the same. You definitely want to add the Dynamic Handling Package, and I also recommend the M brakes.

[Jefflikescars]

M Sport will probably just come down to your preference on how it looks.

Re: leather - I've had BMW's with both. Never complained about the standard leather, it held up well, but also no one ever comments on it. The upgraded leather on the other hand, everyone that gets in my X7 comments on how soft/smooth it is. So I think it's just up to you if you want to spend the extra to have one more wow factor, or have something that will do the job fine but be nothing special.

I almost bought an X5 as well, but my wife convinced me to go for the X7 for the extra space. I've had it for a month and I love it. Zero buyer's remorse over not getting the X5.

Good luck with the options list - some tough decisions!

[ChiTownM]

Originally Posted by Jefflikescars

M Sport will probably just come down to your preference on how it looks.

Re: leather - I've had BMW's with both. Never complained about the standard leather, it held up well, but also no one ever comments on it. The upgraded leather on the other hand, everyone that gets in my X7 comments on how soft/smooth it is. So I think it's just up to you if you want to spend the extra to have one more wow factor, or have something that will do the job fine but be nothing special.

I almost bought an X5 as well, but my wife convinced me to go for the X7 for the extra space. I've had it for a month and I love it. Zero buyer's remorse over not getting the X5.

Good luck with the options list - some tough decisions!

I am in the opposite boat. Wife wanted X5 and is now contemplating X7. What we're the reasons for your switch to X7, space only?

[toddwalton]

Originally Posted by ChiTownM

I am in the opposite boat. Wife wanted X5 and is now contemplating X7. What we're the reasons for your switch to X7, space only?

I was a staunch supporter and lover of the X5 but when my lease was up in April there were no X5's available with the 3rd Row seat and I had to have a 3rd Row. So I went X7 instead and couldn't be happier. It's a great car. And the extra size for the 3rd Row passengers makes a real difference, you can fit adults back there very comfortably, it's the 7's best feature.

[toddwalton]

Originally Posted by buckybadger

Hi Everyone,

I was all set to buy the new X5 but the price difference of X5 vs. X7 is around $8K and I will need the 3rd row in future. Therefore, I have started looking at the X7 now.

I am stuck between luxury vs. M sport trim. When I spec the X7 with luxury, It comes to $80K at MSRP but with M sport, it is $85K.

Therefore, I am contemplating if the extra $3-5K is worth or not, depending on if I get the Merino leather with M sport. Also how does the car handle with the M sport suspension? or do you recommend to get the luxury suspension?

For a 3 or 5 series or even an X5, it makes sense to got for an M sport model. But for a large SUV like the X7, I am having some trouble justifying the extra cost of $3-5K and whether it adds any real benefit.

Please share your experience and recommendations. Thanks!

First off, welcome. Great forum here, you'll find good vibes and a very helpful group. Some thoughts:

I have had several M-Sport BMW's in the 3 and 4 Series, but IMO it doesn't make a difference on an SUV of this type and isn't needed with the X7. You can't push the car and you wouldn't want to anyway. It's a best-in-class Luxury Family Cruiser so treat it that way and you'll be happier. I know its counter-intuitive to our BMW-ness, but your perspective should be luxury-first with an X7.

From an appearance standpoint, I happen to like all the brightwork around the windows, grille, fenders, and rear door. Especially with the standard 40i wheels and running boards. I think it looks really upscale that way. See photo. My 4 Series is all M-Sported and shadowlined out, just didn't feel right on the X7. This is a very luxurious car. Embrace the luxury, put your sport tendencies aside, don't fight it.

Four important points to consider:

1. If you've got little kids ages 3-8 that are going to be in the 2nd or 3rd row, get the running boards. It's a high step and a short step too. My grade schoolers need the pause that the running boards offer.

2. There are no AC vents in the 3rd row. You need to order the Cold Weather Package to get them (should be called the Angry Kids Package). There is a standalone option too. Either way, you need 3rd row air vents and BMW doesn't give them to you standard.

3. Captain's Chairs in the 2nd row are awesome, we are very happy we ordered them instead of the bench. Not only for when we have grandparents aboard but because our kids appreciate the space between and adjustability. If you can live with 6 passenger seating, definitely get the Captain's.

4. Despite this being a huge car it is surprisingly light on cargo space with the 3rd row in use. If you don't have a cargo box for the roof, you're going to need one.

Let us know how it goes and good luck.

[Jefflikescars]

Originally Posted by ChiTownM

I am in the opposite boat. Wife wanted X5 and is now contemplating X7. What we're the reasons for your switch to X7, space only?

Three reasons why I decided to go X7 instead of X5, even though it's mostly me driving it, and we have a Yukon XL as our other car...

1. Space: "Having enough room is the most luxurious thing you can have" - my wife. I wanted an SUV because I'm frequently hauling stuff for my business that wouldn't fit in the trunk of my sedan anymore, and the X7 with the seats folded has more trunk space than the X5. We have 4 kids too, and it's nice to be able to take the kids with me in the X7 if I need to, rather than running home to switch cars.

2. Looks - At first I didn't love the X7. The big grill, the height, etc, just didn't look as good. But the more I looked at it the more it grew on me. Also - I consider myself pretty astute and seeing the difference between different cars, but I still struggle to know if an X5 is current gen or last gen until I'm really close to it. The X7 has great presence on the road and to my eye, looks like a more modern design.

3. M50i - I was still torn because I wanted something that would be exciting to drive. I had driven an X5 50i that was a beast, and I hated the idea of going to a 3 row soccer mom car. But when I saw they were doing an M50i, I decided it was worth a shot. Now that I have it, I'm not disappointed. This car is sooo luxurious, and the power and sound that come with the M50i are the cherry on top.

While I still love the X5, and maybe will own one someday, the X7 won out for the above reasons.

[unotaz]

Can you even fit a cargo box on the M50i? I'm still waiting for my wife's X7 to arrive, so I'm not sure if the M50i model comes with the roof rails?