[Video] 2023 BMW X7 M60i Exhibits Rear-Wheel Steering

We don’t often talk about rear-wheel steering, or Integral Active Steering, as BMW puts it. Numerous pre-X7 Munich automobiles also have this feature, so it’s not exactly new. This system has been around since 1985 when Nissan introduced it on the Skyline R31. It wasn’t until the Honda Prelude made it mainstream, though.

Rear-wheel steering improves the M60i and xDrive40i’s manoeuvrability. It accomplishes this by reversing the direction of the rear wheels concerning the front wheels, making the vehicle more manageable in confined areas. The turning circle is decreased by around 3.28 feet and is effective between 5 and 37 mph.

At speeds above 60 kilometres per hour (37 miles per hour), the vehicle’s Integral Active Steering system locks the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels, enhancing the vehicle’s stability when making lane changes or navigating curves. The technology isn’t as complicated as Mercedes’ latest S-Class and EQS, where the rear wheels may turn 10 degrees.

The 2023 BMW X7 M60i’s Integral Active Steering is highlighted in a new video demonstrating the system in action. While it’s true that some of the features in today’s high-end automobiles are merely showpieces, rear-wheel steering is an extremely practical feature, especially for larger vehicles like SUVs with a longer wheelbase.

Integral Active Steering can be disengaged automatically by choosing Tire Chains in the infotainment system. You can try turning it on and off to see the difference it makes.