2026 BMW X5 vs 2026 BMW X7

Serving Fairfax, VA

If you're shopping for a luxury SUV in Fairfax or the greater Northern Virginia area, both the 2026 BMW X5 and 2026 BMW X7 offer upscale design, intelligent features, and powerful performance. The X5 is a midsize luxury SUV ideal for drivers seeking sporty handling and efficiency, while the X7 is a full-size luxury SUV built for families, long-distance travel, and extra space. For 2026, both models carry forward with the same impressive specs and styling introduced in their recent refreshes.

Performance

Whether you're commuting through Tysons Corner, heading out to the Blue Ridge Mountains, or navigating I-66, both the X5 and X7 offer powertrains that can meet your needs. Here's what you can expect under the hood. The BMW X5 offers a turbocharged 3.0L inline-6 engine with 375 horsepower, available in rear-wheel (sDrive40i) or all-wheel drive (xDrive40i). The X5 also offers a plug-in hybrid xDrive50e, generating 483 horsepower and delivering up to 39 miles of all-electric range for eco-conscious drivers in Fairfax.

The BMW X7 also features a 375-hp turbocharged inline-6 engine but comes standard with xDrive all-wheel drive for added traction and confidence in all weather conditions. There's an optional V8 available for both models. For more spirited performance, both the X5 M60i and X7 M60i come with a 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8, producing a robust 523 horsepower with xDrive and M-tuned handling.

Both SUVs offer refined road manners, but the X5 leans sportier and more agile, while the X7 emphasizes comfort, smoothness, and three-row versatility.

Appearance

While both SUVs share signature BMW styling, there are key design distinctions that set them apart for different types of drivers in Fairfax and Northern Virginia. The BMW X5 features a sleek, athletic profile with a curved roofline, swooping hood, bold LED headlights, a prominent chrome-accented kidney grille, and a squared-off bumper. Its sculpted sides include a chrome air vent and accent bar, adding a sporty edge.

The BMW X7 offers a more commanding road presence with a taller, flatter roof and stronger proportions. Its larger grille and geometric front bumper deliver a bold visual impact, while deeply contoured sides provide an upscale, full-size SUV aesthetic. Choose the X5 for urban elegance and dynamic flair, or go with the X7 for maximum presence, practicality, and third-row capacity.

Features

Both the X5 and X7 are equipped with a wide array of luxury amenities designed to elevate every drive through Fairfax, Reston, Vienna, and beyond. Here's how they compare. 2026 BMW X5 highlights include a 14.9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument display, adaptive cruise control, automated parking assist, heated seats and armrests, soft-close doors, panoramic sunroof with LED lighting, wireless charging, Wi-Fi hotspot, and more.

2026 BMW X7 highlights build upon the X5's features with added refinement, including a Bowers & Wilkins 20-speaker sound system, second-row captain's chairs, massaging front seats, power rear window shades, and five-zone automatic climate control—perfect for families or executive-level luxury. If you prioritize a tech-savvy, driver-focused cabin, the X5 delivers. If you want first-class comfort for all three rows, the X7 is the premium pick.

Which BMW SUV Is Right for You in Fairfax, VA?

At BMW of Fairfax, our team is here to help you decide between the 2026 BMW X5 and BMW X7 based on your needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Whether you value sporty handling or three-row space, you'll find the perfect match here in Northern Virginia. Visit us at BMW of Fairfax to explore both models in person.