Production started back in late 2018, and some four years later, the facelifted iteration came out, featuring the usual updates at the front and rear, as well as some modifications on the inside, and beneath the skin. The model is based on the CLAR (Linie Grosse) platform, which is also shared with the old X5, the previous 7 Series, the discontinued 8 Series, and the XM, among others, and guess what? An updated version of the same construction is the foundation stone of its successor.
The all-new second-generation looks more like another mid-cycle refresh, and that is definitely a compliment for modern-day Bimmers. That’s because most of them have gone down the Neue Klasse route. But not the upcoming BMW X7, as you already know from the numerous encounters with all kinds of prototypes, joined by the occasional digital illustrations. And this time, it is another case of the latter, because the vehicle depicted in the gallery above is nothing more than a rendered model.
Signed by Kolesa’s Nikita Chuyko and shared online recently, it provides a very realistic look at the all-new BMW X7. The CGIs in question appear to have been inspired by the latest scooped prototype, which was in the M60 xDrive configuration. This model will replace the current X7 M60i, which has a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine with mild-hybrid assistance.
Photo: Kolesa
The lump is officially rated at 523 horsepower (530 ps/390 kW) and 553 pound-feet (750 Nm) of torque. The peak output is available at 5,500-6,000 rpm, and the maximum thrust between 1,800 and 4,600 rpm. An eight-speed automatic transmission channels everything to the xDrive all-wheel drive system. From 0 to 60 mph (0-97 kph), this model needs 4.5 seconds, and the top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 kph).
Reports indicate that the upcoming BMW X7 M60 xDrive will likely retain its twin-turbocharged V8 engine, though it should likely have more power. And it is possible that the mill will continue to feature mild-hybrid assistance, rather than going hybrid or plug-in hybrid. Details surrounding the output and thrust are unknown, as you can imagine, but more power is likely, as mentioned above, though don’t expect anything major due to the new emission regulations (Euro 7) on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean.
By the way, you shouldn’t hold your breath for a full-blown M version of the second-generation X7, because it obviously will not happen. Instead, the above-mentioned X7 M60 xDrive will sit at the top of the family until the Alpina version (or is that versions?) arrives.
In terms of design, the all-new BMW X7 will look like an evolution of its predecessor, as we already told you, and these renderings reveal what lies beneath the camouflage. The split lighting units at the front will still be a thing, albeit with vertical instead of horizontal main clusters, and wider and slimmer daytime running lights. The kidney grille will be a bit taller, and will feature horizontal instead of vertical slats.
Photo: Kolesa
The lower air intake in the bumper is wider and shorter than before, and the hood hasn’t gone down the clamshell-like path. Just like the smaller X5, the upcoming X7 will feature winglets instead of traditional door handles, and chances are it won’t sport a split-opening tailgate anymore. The taillights are shorter and much wider than before, and the tailgate now blends in with the rear bumper.
The quad tailpipes shown here are an indicator that we are looking at the M60 xDrive version of the flagship crossover, and the wheels have been virtually sourced directly from the scooped tester. Rumor has it that this model might be available with yellow daytime running lights, and it is up to you to decide whether these fit the large and family-friendly nature of this vehicle.
While the exterior will be evolutionary, the cabin will be revolutionary. Well, revolutionary in comparison with the outgoing BMW X7, because there are several other new Bimmers that feature the same layout, including the i3, 3 Series, iX3, X5, and so on. Thus, whether you like it or not, expect the same Panoramic iDrive display, infotainment system, and probably the same quirky steering wheel, among others.
BMW has yet to announce when it will unveil the all-new X7, but the model could come out of hiding a few months from now. Word on the street is that it could arrive at dealers in the United States of America for the 2028 model year, which makes a lot of sense given that the outgoing one is a 2027 model. Do you fancy the upcoming X7 more than the outgoing one based on these realistic CGIs?
