Spied: All-new BMW X7 spotted testing
Two years ago, BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer made an official announcement of bringing a new-generation flagship SUV, the X7, in 2016. And now spied images have revealed that near-production form of the X7. However, BMW has already stated that the X7 will hit showrooms by end 2018. The BMW X7 will be manufactured at the brand's Spartanburg facility in South Carolina and will compete with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLS and Land Rover Range Rover.
The new-generation BMW X7 will be based on the extended platform of the X5 and the X6 SUVs. This might be the same flexible lightweight CLAR design with carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic that presently underpins the 7 Series sedan as well as the upcoming 5 Series sedan that arrives next year.
The camouflaged test mules of the new BMW X7 do feature the familiar kidney grille and the sweep back headlights, but we believe it will come equipped with a similar set-up as on the new 7 Series sedan. Though it does look like a stretched X5, the X7 gets a host of muscular contours on the front and the side. The rear profile of the test mules are completely covered, revealing merely the exhaust openings. The cabin layout and the feature list like the gesture contols might also be shared with the 7 Series sedan.
BMW might offer a choice between the V8 petrol and diesel engines for the X7. Also seeing the present focus on cleaner and more efficient powertrain options, BMW might also strap in a plug-in hybrid on the X7. Additionally, there might be a more performance-oriented M760i with a V12-powered petrol motor. The actual details of these options will only be available close to the official launch.
We expect BMW to bring the production version of the X7 at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show and showcase the near-ready version in Geneva. The prices of the BMW X7 will be close to that of the new 7 Series sedan.
Image source:Â motorauthority