2021 BMW X7 CKD - First impression

Last year, BMW Malaysia introduced the locally assembled versions of its many high-profile models, including the BMW 218i Gran Coupé, BMW 330e M Sport, and BMW M340i xDrive. And now, it localizes the assembly of its largest X model, the X7, with longstanding confidence in Malaysia’s potential as a regional hub for the luxury automobile segment.

“The All-New BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence is testament to our continued support for the local automotive landscape, as we welcome the luxury Sports Activity Vehicle to our portfolio of locally assembled vehicles in Malaysia,” said Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

BMW first previewed the X7 xDrive40i CKD, in a single Pure Excellence version, three months back that has some changes in specification. The automaker now unwrapped its final price tag, which reads RM 648,934 (inclusive of the ongoing sales and service tax exemption). If we compare its price with the earlier CBU unit, the locally-assembled X7 from Kulim, Kedah is RM 239,866 cheaper, thanks to RM 83,734 EEV incentives and RM 25,000 SST rebate.

Let’s find out more about this crown jewel of Progressive Luxury in our first impression.

BMW X7 CKD Exterior

In terms of exterior design, the all-new BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence retains its iconic bold and immaculate styling. With the same elements at the same places, the new SUV gets chrome highlights on the front air intakes, window trimming, and side “hockey stick” graphic. Also new are the front and rear silver skid plates, and satin aluminium roof rails. The continuing exterior highlights are a massive kidney front grille, Laserlight headlamps, aluminium running boards, powered split tailgate, soft-close doors, and 21-inch Y-spoke two-tone alloy wheels.

BMW X7 CKD Interior

The interior of the new BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence boasts the opulent “Crafted Clarity” handmade diamond-cut trimmings alongside a range of standard equipment. The latter includes

• Live Cockpit Professional with BMW Operating System 7.0
• 12.3-inch instrument cluster
• Large central Control Display with touchscreen functionality
• BMW Head-Up Display
• Voice-controlled BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
• BMW Gesture Control
• Welcome Light Carpet
• Five-zone air conditioning
• Harman Kardon Surround Sound System with 16 loudspeakers
• Electric roller blinds for side windows
• Rear Entertainment Professional system
• Large Panorama Roof Sky Lounge
• Sport leather steering wheel
• Electrically adjustable front seats with active seat ventilation

BMW offers the X7 CKD model in five colour options teamed up with selected interior colour combinations, including

• Sapphire Black with Cognac leather upholstery
• Sophisto Grey with Cognac leather upholstery
• Phytonic Blue with Black leather Vernasca
• Manhattan Metallic with Black leather Vernasca
• Mineral White with Coffee Leather Vernasca and Black design 

BMW X7 CKD Engine Specifications

Under the hood, the new BMW X7 is fitted with the same 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder engine which is a good thing. The engine churns out a maximum power of 340 PS and a peak torque of 450 Nm. Power is channelled to all four wheels through an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. On the performance front, the SUV takes 6.1 seconds to complete the century sprint. The top speed is rated at 245 kmph. 

According to the automaker, the SUV’s xDrive intelligent AWD system linked with the Dynamic Stability Control maximizes its traction, agility, and handling stability. Included in the new chassis design is a two-axle air suspension. 

BMW X7 CKD Safety

Just like the imported version, the locally-assembled BMW X7 continues to offer advanced driving assistance features like Reversing Assistant and Driving Assistant. The former helps the driver in easy manoeuvring at tight parking spaces, while the latter is a bundle of many features like Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Warning, and Front Collision Warning with brake intervention. As a welcome addition, the CKD model gets an Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function and Integral Active Steering.

The new BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence is now available at all authorised BMW dealerships in the country. Customers will be able to book it for RM 5,000 via the BMW Shop Online platform from tomorrow onwards.

Also read: Meet Hans de Visser, BMW Malaysia's newly appointed MD, CEO