BMW’s largest model updates look, engines and interior.

EXTRA technology including two new mild-hybrid engines are among elements of the impending local market update for the largest vehicle in BMW-dom, the X7.

As with the previous version, two variants of the model are on offer, but they’re fresh.

The cheaper of the two, the xDrive40d, replaces the xDrive30d and brings power and torque increases as well as a significantly expanded specification.

It’s in M Sport and Design Pure Excellence, both for $177,700. Top of the tree is M60i xDrive, featuring a 4.4-litre petrol V8 with M TwinPower Turbo technology, for $224,900. Each has additional options, spanning not just equipment but also colours and wheel types, that bump those prices further.

The models offer with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, capable of providing a 9kW/200Nm boost under heavy loads while also reducing emissions, though not enough to avoid a Clean Car penalty, and improving fuel economy.

The update delivers first local market view of the marque’s split headlight design language, with daytime-running lights above and main LED beams below, along with lighting for the vehicle’s signature ‘kidney’ grilles for the flagship variant.

The xDrive40d is powered by a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine producing 259kW and 720Nm – an increase over the outgoing xDrive30d of 64kW and 100Nm. Zero t0 100kmh in in just under six seconds.

The M60i’s outputs of 390kW and 750Nm match those of the previous X7 M50i, but this is a newer ‘S68’ V8 developed by BMW M. Zero to 100kmh in 4.7s is claimed.

Combined fuel consumption is claimed at 8.0 litres per 100 kilometres for the xDrive40d, and 12.2L/100km for the M60i.

Both engines couple with an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle-shifters, powering all four wheels, and the addition of an M Sport differential for the M60i.

Inside, the facelifted X7 adopts BMW's latest iDrive 8 infotainment technology, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 14.9-inch central touchscreen into one curved glass panel.

It offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus augmented-reality navigation, a personal assistant, 5G connectivity, and support for a digital key through owners' iPhones.

The lower dashboard has been redesigned with slimmer air vents and an ambient light bar in front of the passenger – with 'X7' or 'M' lettering, depending on variant – along with a restyled shift lever.

BMW NZ has cited availability from the last quarter of this year.