Earlier this week, BMW formally introduced {that a} second-generation X7 is within the pipeline. Shortly after, our automotive paparazzi noticed the three-row luxurious SUV present process testing. The prototype caught on digicam was a V8-powered M Efficiency mannequin with quad exhausts, however one other “M Lite” taste is within the works. We’ve realized that the purely electrical iX7 may even get a not-quite-M model with over 800 horsepower.
Codenamed G67, the next-generation luxobarge will proceed driving on the CLAR platform, which BMW additionally makes use of for the electrical variant. Regardless of sharing acquainted underpinnings, the first-ever iX7 will characteristic the Gen6 batteries and electrical motors set to debut later this yr within the new iX3. The bigger SUV shall be a considerably extra subtle product positioned two segments above.
Along with further luxurious, BMW’s M division is making ready an iX7 M70 boasting greater than 800 horsepower. Naturally, it can include xDrive, that means a dual-motor setup as commonplace. This all-electric M Efficiency mannequin will sit on the prime of BMW’s lineup, above the V8-powered X7 M60 seen within the spy pictures. Nevertheless, it received’t be absolutely the flagship. Allow us to clarify.
ALPINA, which BMW acquired a number of years in the past, is growing its personal tackle the iX7. We’ve beforehand reported that it might produce almost 900 horsepower. Count on extra important modifications than simply totally different badges and refined design tweaks. ALPINA’s model is believed to hold its personal inner codename: “G69.” The range-topping mannequin from Buchloe is likely to be known as the iX7 100 xDrive.
For these nonetheless loyal to V8s, ALPINA has you coated. The X7 60 xDrive will doubtless use the twin-turbo 4.4-liter S68 engine, and an entry-level X7 40 xDrive with an inline-six may be supplied. Whether or not these V8 fashions shall be offered in Europe stays unsure. Stricter emissions laws might push BMW Group to supply future V8-powered vehicles solely outdoors the EU. It’s already taking place with the 760i, though the armored 7 Collection Safety nonetheless retains the massive engine in Europe.
For these prepared to modify to electrical, the iX7 will characteristic cylindrical battery cells. BMW claims a 20% enhance in power density in comparison with present prismatic cells and a 30% enhance in each charging velocity and driving vary. The newly developed motors are smaller, lighter, and extra inflexible. Engineers have reworked oil and water-cooling methods and applied 800V structure for quicker charging. Power losses shall be lowered by 40%, and manufacturing prices by 20%.
The iX7 received’t be the primary CLAR-based EV to undertake Neue Klasse tech, as that distinction goes to the IX5which can launch subsequent yr. Its bigger sibling, the iX7, is scheduled to reach within the second half of 2027.
