RAM 3500 vs BMW X7
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The RAM 3500 starts from $177,950 before on-road costs, while the BMW X7 opens at $174,900. That makes the BMW X7 the more affordable entry point by $3,050.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $195,745 and $192,390 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BMW X7 by roughly $4,130 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The RAM 3500 features a 12-inch touchscreen, while the BMW X7 gets a 14.9-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The RAM 3500 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that you will not find on the BMW X7. The BMW X7 counters with Apple CarPlay, head-up display, wireless charging, panoramic roof, heated front seats, ventilated seats, Harman Kardon audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The RAM 3500 uses a Diesel Turbo producing 313kW and 1152Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.1 seconds.
The BMW X7 responds with a Diesel making 259kW and 720Nm, paired to a auto driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 5 seconds.
The RAM 3500 has the clear power advantage at 313kW vs 259kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW X7 is 4.1s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The RAM 3500 measures 6,066mm long on a 3,785mm wheelbase, 885mm longer than the BMW X7 at 5,181mm (3,105mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the RAM 3500 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 900L in the RAM 3500 and 750L in the BMW X7, giving the RAM 3500 a 150L advantage. The BMW X7 seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the RAM 3500 leads with a 8,000kg braked capacity vs 3,500kg. That 4,500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
13.1m to 14.4m
Based on 14.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 13.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $3,648/year for the RAM 3500 and $2,822/year for the BMW X7. That is a $826 annual difference in favour of the BMW X7.
Estimated annual total: $3,648 (RAM 3500) vs $2,822 (BMW X7). The BMW X7 saves you roughly $826 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 3 years / 100,000km (RAM 3500) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW X7). The BMW X7 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the RAM 3500 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer RAM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW X7 if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW X7 takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The BMW X7 will save you roughly $826 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the RAM 3500 has a clear edge. The BMW X7 adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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