India finally gets a BMW which not only dwarfs the X5 but also locks horns with full-sized SUVs like the Mercedes-Benz GLS. Say hello to the BMW X7. It arrives in India in two variants – xDrive40i and xDrive30d DPE Signature. While the former comes via the CBU route, the latter will be locally put together. Both are priced at Rs 98.90 lakh (ex-showroom India).

So, what’s under the bonnet? If you opt for the imported variant (xDrive40i), the firepower will come from a 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder turbo-petrol engine which puts out 340hp/450Nm. Thanks to an 8-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system, both of which are also available in the other variant, the grunt is properly utilised. BMW claims the xDrive40i can hit 100kmph from a standstill in 6.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 245kmph. The xDrive30d, on the other hand, brings a 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder turbo-diesel into the equation and that produces 265hp/620Nm. Here, the 0-100kmph time is 7 seconds and the top speed is 227kmph.

The X7 is widely touted as the 7 Series of SUVs. Hence, its list of features is extensive. Unlike the X7, which has two rows of seats, the X7 gets three. However, it can be personalised to create a layout for six or seven passengers. Other features include five-zone automatic climate control, 16-speaker, 464-watt Harman Kardon sound system, ambient lighting, two 12.3-inch displays (infotainment system and digital instrument cluster), automatic and adaptive LED headlamps, park distance control, auto wipers and reclining function for all seats.

Disappointed that the M50d didn’t make the cut for India? Well, that’s not true. It will be launched before 2019 comes to a close. The said variant of the X7 is powered by a 3.0-litre, quad-turbo diesel engine which pumps out 400hp/760Nm. Needless to say, the all-wheel-drive system, mated to an 8-speed AT, is part of the powertrain. The result is a 0-100kmph time of 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 250kmph. Like the xDrive40i, the M50d will come via the CBU route.