The BMW X7 is the firm’s flagship large SUV – and although it doesn’t currently make our overall list of the best SUVs you can buy, this is still an outstanding choice if you need a high-tech, high-luxury seven-seater. It’s also one of the brand’s biggest and brashest designs, which is really saying something when you consider it also manufactures the BMW XM and BMW iX, though the latter has been improved following its midlife facelift.

Packed with technology and driver aids, the X7 is over five-metres long and directly targets popular luxury SUVs such as the Range Rover Sport, the Audi Q7 and the Mercedes-Benz GLS. The BMW aims to be the driver’s choice, but it’s also remarkably practical.

Sure enough, there’s lots to like about the X7. The styling is controversial, but the rest of the car exudes all the luxury and premium quality that you’d expect of a high-rise 7 Series. Three rows of seats make for a standard seven-seat configuration – with room for adults in the third row – while a six-seat variant is also on offer for those that want more space in the second row.

There are petrol and diesel engines on offer, but no matter which you choose, all variants get xDrive all-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic gearbox and 48-volt mild-hybrid technology.

As for trim levels, there’s a choice of three. The opening salvo is Excellence spec – entry-level isn’t the right word – with the ever popular M Sport above this and available with the same xDrive40 engines. At the top of the tree sits a full M Performance model, the latest version badged M60i xDrive (replacing the previous M50i xDrive variant). All versions are luxurious and get a panoramic glass sunroof, adaptive LED headlights, air suspension and much more as standard.

The X7 receives the same infotainment setup as the newest 7 Series and i7 models, meaning a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and 14.9-inch curved central screen that runs BMW’s latest iDrive operating system. It’s one of the best on the market even if it does take a little time to get used to the myriad features and functionality.

Click through the next few pages to read everything you need to know about the BMW X7, including its practicality, how much it costs to run, what it’s like to drive – and whether we recommend buying one. Want to know how we reached our verdict? You can also find out how we test cars.