2021 BMW X7 vs 2021 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban's design was a topic of debate, with its front-end styling drawing mixed reactions. The vehicle's exterior borrowed elements from the Camaro, resulting in a combination of small headlights and large grilles that some found unappealing. Despite this, the interior maintained a familiar layout, with controls conveniently placed and a touchscreen framed by a chrome strip. The Suburban offered various trim levels, with the High Country being the top-tier option, featuring a range of luxury and driver assistance features. However, the interior materials, while upscale, lacked the softness expected in a luxury SUV, making it more akin to an upscale pickup.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X7 was noted for its superior interior quality and technological sophistication. It boasted a prestigious presence on the road, with a design that incorporated traditional BMW cues and a massive grille that suited its large frame. The X7's interior was luxurious, with high-quality materials and advanced technology. The vehicle offered three versions, with the xDrive40i being the entry-level model. The X7's styling and interior comfort made it a standout in its class, appealing to those seeking a blend of luxury and performance.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban offered a range of engine options, including a standard 5.3-liter V8 producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, and an available 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. The Suburban's towing capacity reached up to 8,300 pounds with the Max Trailering package. Our test vehicle featured the Duramax turbodiesel engine, delivering 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The diesel engine provided excellent pickup and torque, making it suitable for both city and highway driving. The Suburban's handling was truck-like, with notable body roll and susceptibility to crosswinds, but it offered a smooth ride over most surfaces.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, generating 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. It featured an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive AWD system. The X7 incorporated eBoost mild-hybrid technology, enhancing fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Despite a slight drop in fuel economy compared to the previous year, the X7 delivered impressive acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The vehicle's handling was smooth and stable, with advanced suspension systems providing a comfortable ride. However, the X7's weight and size were noticeable on winding roads, affecting its agility.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering 144.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, 93.8 cubic feet with the second row in use, and 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row. Passengers enjoyed ample head- and legroom, with second-row captain's chairs providing exceptional comfort. The control layout was similar to GM's pickup trucks, though the button shifter design was less intuitive. The power-sliding center console was a unique feature, though its functionality was questioned. Overall, the Suburban's spacious interior was a major selling point.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was luxurious, featuring heated and ventilated seats, premium leather upholstery, and advanced climate control systems. Front-seat comfort was outstanding, and the second-row captain's chairs offered exceptional comfort. The third-row seats were surprisingly accommodating for adults, though accessing them required some maneuvering. The X7's cargo space was smaller than some competitors, with 48.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.4 cubic feet with the second row folded. Despite this, the X7's interior comfort and quality were impressive.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running GM's intuitive infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's layout was user-friendly, with a helpful home button for navigation. Optional features included a navigation system, rear entertainment system, and head-up display. The Suburban's technology offerings were convenient and easy to use.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured BMW's Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, both with 12.3-inch displays. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro. Wireless smartphone charging, voice recognition, and gesture control were also available. The iDrive system was user-friendly, though it required some acclimation. The X7's technology offerings were comprehensive and advanced.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban was equipped with automatic emergency braking, forward-collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, and rear parking sensors. The Teen Driver system allowed for speed and volume limitations. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. Some competitors offered these features as standard.

The 2021 BMW X7 included standard safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The Driving Assistance Professional Package added features like evasive-steering assist and traffic-jam assist, while the Parking Assistance Package included semi-automated parking assist and a surround-view camera. The X7's safety technology was advanced and effective, though some features required additional packages.