Three electric motors, more power, and electric torque vectoring improve the e-tron S Sportback's handling and agility.
PROS More power, responsive torque vectoring, it'll drift like a sports car.
CONS The regular e-tron weighs nearly 6000 pounds, this may be heavier; plans for the States are still to be determined.
Audi has unveiled the next evolution in its coming electric vehicle offensive, in the form of the 2021 Audi e-tron S. Building on its standard 95kWh e-tron, the S will receive a third electric motor and subsequent performance boost. With that enhancement, the e-tron S offers 320kW and 808Nm in normal driving mode and 370kW and 973Nm when in ‘Boost Mode’. By comparison, the current model e-tron produces 300kW and 664Nm.
For 2021, BMW reshuffles the X7 lineup by dropping the 456-hp, V-8-powered xDrive50i—the 523-hp M50i continues—and adding the 612-hp Alpina XB7. The latter is the first SUV that the BMW tuning specialist has offered in the U.S. The xDrive40i's powertrain gets a 48-volt starter-generator which, surprisingly, worsens its EPA fuel-economy figures; both its city and highway ratings drop by 1 mpg.
PROS Powertrains' deliciously smooth power, interior as quiet as a library but much comfier, Alpina XB7 is hilariously quick and athletic.
CONS Excessive body roll around corners, cabin and cargo spaces are smaller than expected, power rear seats are S-L-O-W.
The 2021 BMW X7 doesn’t compromise roominess, comfort, performance, or price.
PROS Standard heated armrests, seats, steering wheel Balance of comfort and power Excellent standard features Large touchscreen Larger than competition
CONS Expensive Small cargo with all seats up Two trims, essentially
The 2021 BMW X7 comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.High-performance, ultra-plush Alpina XB7 is new to the lineup.The X7 xDrive50i trim and optional off-road package are no longer available.Limited-edition Dark Shadow model debuts with unique paint and trim.
PROS Strong engine performance Smooth ride Impeccable interior
CONS Expensive for the class Climate controls can be confusing to use Some systems don't behave as you'd expect