Range Rover vs BMW X7: Clash of Luxury SUV in Dubai
As I cruised down Sheikh Zayed Road, the sun glinting off the sleek curves of Dubai’s skyline, I couldn’t help but feel the pulse of this city—a place where luxury isn’t just a preference, it’s a way of life. The scent of oud lingering in the air, the hum of high-performance engines, and the sight of opulent SUVs weaving through traffic set the stage for an epic showdown: the Range Rover versus the BMW X7.
These two titans of the luxury SUV market dominate Dubai’s roads, each promising a blend of sophistication, power, and prestige. As an Emirati car enthusiast, I’ve taken both for a spin to uncover which one truly reigns supreme in our desert metropolis.
In this blog, I’ll delve into their technical specifications, performance metrics, and unique features, tailored for those who demand the best from their vehicles. Buckle up as we explore why you might want to buy a Range Rover in Dubai or opt for the BMW X7.
Dubai’s roads are a showcase of automotive excellence, where luxury SUVs like the Range Rover and BMW X7 aren’t just vehicles—they’re statements. The Range Rover, with its regal heritage, has long been a symbol of elegance and off-road prowess, while the BMW X7 brings German precision and sporty flair to the table.
Both cater to Emiratis who crave a vehicle that matches the city’s extravagant lifestyle, whether it’s navigating the urban jungle or venturing into the dunes. In this comparison, I’ll break down their design, performance, technology, and pricing, using exclusive insights and up-to-date data to help you decide which luxury SUV deserves a spot in your garage.
Design and Aesthetics
Range Rover
The moment I laid eyes on the 2025 Range Rover, its sleek silhouette felt like a mirage in the desert heat. Its flush deployable door handles and minimalist lines exude a timeless sophistication that resonates with Dubai’s elite.
The exterior, available in colours like Santorini Black and Eiger Grey, catches the sunlight in a way that demands attention without screaming for it.
Inside, the cabin is a sanctuary of luxury—think buttery-soft Windsor leather seats, the subtle scent of premium upholstery, and a 13.1-inch curved touchscreen that feels like a piece of modern art. The iconic fold-down tailgate, perfect for sipping coffee at a desert campsite, adds a unique touch that exudes Range Rover’s distinctive style.
BMW X7
Before buying a BMW in Dubai: The BMW X7, on the other hand, is a head-turner. Its massive kidney grille, illuminated for 2025, is impossible to ignore as it cuts through Dubai’s evening glow.
The split headlights and sleek LED taillights give it a futuristic edge, while the interior feels like stepping into a high-tech cockpit.
The 14.9-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital cluster create a seamless digital experience, though the glossy finishes can attract fingerprints—a minor annoyance in Dubai’s dusty climate. The X7’s sporty stance, especially in Frozen Pure Grey, appeals to those who want their luxury SUV to exude a youthful and dynamic feel.
Comparison Table
Feature | Range Rover 2025 | BMW X7 2025 |
|---|---|---|
Exterior Styling | Minimalist, flush door handles | Bold grille, split headlights |
Interior Materials | Windsor leather, wood accents | Merino leather, carbon fiber |
Screen Size | 13.1-inch touchscreen | 14.9-inch touchscreen |
Unique Feature | Fold-down tailgate | Illuminated kidney grille |
BMW X7 40i M Sport
- Dubai
BMW M5 Competition
- Dubai
BMW M5
- Dubai
BMW X3 xDrive 30i M Sport
- Dubai
Performance and Powertrains
Range Rover
Under the hood, the 2025 Range Rover offers a range of powertrains tailored for Dubai’s diverse driving conditions. The base P400 model, featuring a 3.0L turbocharged inline-six engine and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, produces 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. It’s smooth, with a 0-100 km/h sprint in 5.7 seconds—perfect for merging onto Dubai’s fast-paced highways.
For those craving more, the P530’s 4.4L twin-turbo V8 (sourced from BMW) pumps out 523 hp and 553 lb-ft, hitting 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds.
The plug-in hybrid P440e, with 434 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque, offers 51 miles of electric range, making it ideal for short city commutes. Off-road, the Range Rover’s Terrain Response 2 system and air suspension make it a dune-bashing legend, effortlessly tackling the UAE’s sandy terrain.
BMW X7
The BMW X7 counters with its impressive lineup. The xDrive40i’s 3.0L turbocharged inline-six, also with mild-hybrid tech, produces 375 hp and 520 Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds.
The M60i’s 4.4L twin-turbo V8 matches the Range Rover’s 523 hp but edges out slightly with a 4.4-second sprint, thanks to its sharper handling.
For the ultimate thrill, the Alpina XB7’s 4.4L V8 churns out 631 hp, hitting 100 km/h in a blistering 4.0 seconds. While the X7’s xDrive system ensures excellent grip on Dubai’s roads, its lower ground clearance and lack of off-road-specific tech make it less suited for desert adventures compared to the Range Rover.
Comparison Table
Specification | Range Rover P400 | Range Rover P530 | BMW X7 xDrive40i | BMW X7 M60i |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Engine | 3.0L I6 Hybrid | 4.4L V8 | 3.0L I6 Hybrid | 4.4L V8 |
Horsepower | 395 hp | 523 hp | 375 hp | 523 hp |
Torque | 406 lb-ft | 553 lb-ft | 520 Nm | 553 lb-ft |
0-100 km/h | 5.7 s | 4.5 s | 5.8 s | 4.4 s |
Top Speed | 242 km/h | 250 km/h | 250 km/h | 250 km/h |
Towing Capacity | 7,716 lbs | 7,716 lbs | 7,500 lbs | 7,500 lbs |
Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography
- Dubai
Land Rover Range Rover Vogue SE
- Dubai
Land Rover Range Rover Supercharged
- Dubai
Technology and Connectivity
Range Rover
Sliding into the Range Rover feels like entering a high-tech lounge. The Pivi Pro infotainment system, displayed on a 13.1-inch haptic-feedback touchscreen, is intuitive and responsive, syncing seamlessly with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The 13.7-inch interactive driver display offers customizable layouts, ensuring critical info is always in view. Safety features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot assist, and a 3D surround camera make navigating Dubai’s busy streets a breeze. The Meridian Signature Sound System, with 35 speakers and 1,600W, fills the cabin with crystal-clear audio, turning every drive into a concert.
BMW X7
The X7’s iDrive eight system is a tech lover’s dream, with a 14.9-inch touchscreen and gesture controls that feel like something out of a sci-fi movie. The augmented reality navigation projects directions onto the windshield, a game-changer for Dubai’s complex road networks. However, the lack of standard active lane-keeping assist in base models is a drawback compared to the Range Rover’s comprehensive safety suite.
The 16-speaker Harman Kardon system, while impressive, doesn’t quite match the Range Rover’s audio immersion. Still, the X7’s digital cluster and ambient lighting create a cockpit-like atmosphere that tech-savvy Emiratis will love.
Pricing in Dubai
In Dubai, where luxury comes with a premium, pricing plays a big role in choosing your SUV. Based on the latest data from local dealerships, the 2025 Range Rover starts at AED 510,000 for the SE trim, climbing to AED 780,000 for the Autobiography LWB. The plug-in hybrid P440e starts at AED 620,000, offering eco-conscious luxury.
If you’re looking to buy Range Rover in Dubai, dealers like Al Tayer Motors offer customisation options that can push prices higher, but the prestige and off-road capability justify the cost for many.
The BMW X7 is slightly more accessible, with the xDrive40i starting at AED 460,000 and the M60i at AED 620,000.
The Alpina XB7, a rare gem, commands AED 750,000. While the X7 undercuts the Range Rover in base price, its options can quickly escalate costs. Both brands require mandatory insurance in Dubai, with premiums for luxury SUVs ranging from AED 10,000 to AED 15,000 annually, depending on the driver’s profile.
Comparison Table: Pricing in Dubai (AED)
Model | Starting Price | Top Trim Price |
|---|---|---|
Range Rover | 510,000 | 780,000 |
BMW X7 | 460,000 | 750,000 |
The BMW X7 is slightly more accessible, with the xDrive40i starting at AED 460,000 and the M60i at AED 620,000. The Alpina XB7, a rare gem, commands AED 750,000. While the X7 undercuts the Range Rover in base price, its options can quickly escalate costs. Both brands require mandatory insurance in Dubai, with premiums for luxury SUVs ranging from AED 10,000 to AED 15,000 annually, depending on the driver’s profile.
Off-Road Capability
For Emiratis, a luxury SUV must handle more than just city streets—it needs to conquer the desert. The Range Rover’s Terrain Response 2 system, adjustable air suspension, and 295 mm ground clearance make it a dune-bashing champion.
I felt the adrenaline rush as it glided over soft sand, the suspension absorbing every bump like a magic carpet. The X7, while capable on light off-road trails, lacks the dedicated systems to match the Range Rover’s prowess, making it better suited for urban adventures.
The BMW X7 is slightly more accessible, with the xDrive40i starting at AED 460,000 and the M60i at AED 620,000. The Alpina XB7, a rare gem, commands AED 750,000.
While the X7 undercuts the Range Rover in base price, its options can quickly escalate costs. Both brands require mandatory insurance in Dubai, with premiums for luxury SUVs ranging from AED 10,000 to AED 15,000 annually, depending on the driver’s profile.
Conclusion
After test-driving both, I’m torn. The Range Rover’s opulent cabin, unmatched off-road ability, and iconic status make it feel like royalty on wheels—a perfect fit for Dubai’s elite. The BMW X7, with its bold design, razor-sharp handling, and tech-forward interior, is a thrilling choice for those who love to stand out.
For Emiratis, the decision hinges on lifestyle: choose the Range Rover for desert adventures and prestige, or the X7 for urban flair and performance. Visit dealers like Al Tayer Motors or BMW Dubai to test-drive and find your perfect luxury SUV. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed a ride that matches Dubai’s grandeur.
The BMW X7 is slightly more accessible, with the xDrive40i starting at AED 460,000 and the M60i at AED 620,000.
The Alpina XB7, a rare gem, commands AED 750,000. While the X7 undercuts the Range Rover in base price, its options can quickly escalate costs. Both brands require mandatory insurance in Dubai, with premiums for luxury SUVs ranging from AED 10,000 to AED 15,000 annually, depending on the driver’s profile.
