BMW is preparing to refresh its luxury three-row SUV lineup with a second-generation X7, which has been spotted in both fully electric iX7 and V8-powered M60 variants during testing at the Nürburgring. Despite being an early entrant in luxury crossovers with the first-generation X5 in 1999 and X3 in 2003, BMW took until 2019 to introduce a large three-row SUV, and the new model signals the brand is not abandoning the segment.
Design and Features
The new X7 maintains a blocky body shape similar to its predecessor but incorporates design elements from newer BMW electric vehicles. The iX7 and M60 share a split-headlight motif design, featuring sharper-resolved lights that resemble the design of the 7 Series facelift model. The M60’s running lights appear yellow, matching the color scheme of the M350 and iX4 M60 models. Two tall kidney grills feature horizontal vanes on the iX7, while the M60’s front bumper includes a larger intake.
At the rear, both models feature wide taillights with thicker horizontal lines, though the pattern differs slightly between variants. The M60 sports prominent round exhaust tips on each corner of the rear bumper, whereas the iX7’s bumper is smooth. The split tailgate design from the current X7 may return, though it was removed from the redesigned X5 due to limited buyer interest.
The greenhouse and overall proportions closely mirror the first-generation X7, but the fenders are more prominent, echoing the design elements of the iX3 and X5 styles. Wing-tip door handles, similar to the X5, are visible on prototypes, though U.S. market preferences might lead BMW to replace them with conventional handles in later production models.
Powertrain Options
The brand plans to align the X7’s lineup with the X5 and 7 Series. The base X7 will likely feature a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-6 engine, which provides a balance of performance and efficiency. The M60 variant is expected to use a twin-turbocharged V8, though it reportedly will not include a plug-in-hybrid system—a departure from its X5 and 7 Series counterparts that some analysts view as a missed opportunity.
The iX7 will probably offer multiple variants, all with all-wheel drive via dual electric motors and an EPA range exceeding 400 miles. An M Performance version of the iX7 is anticipated, though full X7 M or iX7 M models may still be in development. The brand is also expected to introduce an Alpina XB7 alongside the standard models.
Market Competition and Launch
The brand’s timing appears strategic as Mercedes-Benz recently launched a second facelift of its aging GLS model, and Audi is set to debut the new Q9, its first serious attempt at a large SUV model. Neither competitor offers an electric vehicle variant, giving BMW a competitive edge in the luxury three-row segment.
