2019 BMW X7 vs X5: G07 vs G05 differences compared side by side

The 2019 BMW X7 (G07) was launched just four months after the (G05) 2019 X5. We compare the two SUVs to see just how similar (or not) they are.

The two cars were developed alongside one another, ride on the CLAR platform, and are built side by side at BMW's Spartanburg, SC, factory. Stylistically, BMW has tried to give each crossover its own personality.

The new X5 and first-ever X7 only seem to share the same front doors, every other panel is different.

BMW has given the X5 a more athletic look, especially with the stepped shoulder line. The X7 has a formal appearance with a squarer and more upright appearance. Note how the X5 has slightly squared off wheel arches, while the X7's are round.

The 4,922mm (193.8 inch) X5 is big, but the 5,151mm (202.8 inch) X7 is 229mm (9 inches) longer. The wheelbase has grown from 2,975mm (117.1 inch) in the X5 to 3,105mm (122.2 inch) in the X7 — an increase of 130mm (5.1 inches). Just check out how much bigger the X7's rear doors are compared to its front set.

When the X5 was first released, we didn't think it looked particularly sporty, but next to the X7 it's practically the M1. This X5's M body kit certainly helps in that regard. The X7, again, is being pitched as more formal and stately.

Both crossovers have a big chrome double-kidney grille with conjoined halves.

The X7's thin headlight units make the its larger-than-large grille seem gigantic.

Their tail-light shapes are similar, but the graphics are different. The X5 misses out on a chrome garnish joining the left and right units, but is more sculpted and three dimensional.

That chrome bar on the X7 is desperately trying to link the biggest BMW crossover yet with the 7-Series sedan.

While BMW has gone to some length to make the exteriors different. It hasn't expended the same effort in the cabin.

The two cars share the same dashboard, and most interior fittings. The biggest differences will likely come down to trim and options.

The infotainment and climate control systems are the same, but the X7 does have satin chrome spears heading out of the central vent pod.

The X7's longer wheelbase will benefit those sitting in the second row, which is available with either two or three seats.

The biggest benefit, obviously, will be for the boot/trunk, and the third row, which goes from unpleasant for everyone in the old X5 7-seater to habitable for some in the new 3-row X7.

Both the X5 and X7 have split tailgates. The X5's boot/trunk is rated at between 645 and 1,860 litres (22.8 to 65.7 cu-ft), and the X7's at between 326 and 2,210L (11.5 to 78.1 cu-ft). The new X5, it should be noted, is only available with two rows of seats for now.