BMW’s updated X7 will soon reach showrooms, sporting a fresh front end that mirrors that of the next-generation 7 Series
Our spy photographers have snapped the facelifted BMW X7 again, ahead of its expected launch later this year. The update arrives at a good time, too, as the German brand’s flagship seven-seat SUV now has to compete with the all-new fifth-generation Range Rover.
BMW’s biggest changes will be cosmetic, as the company tries to keep the X7 looking fresh alongside its new competition. Up front, BMW has dropped the SUV’s headlamps lower down the SUV’s bumper, to mirror the design of the upcoming BMW X8 and 7 Series.
We’re not expecting many changes to the cabin, other than some new trim and updated upholstery. The new X7 will also feature the same dual 12.3-inch displays as the current car, although they’ll be powered by the latest version of BMW’s iDrive infotainment software.
However, there might be some big changes under the bonnet. The revised X7 could borrow the 3.0-litre plug-in hybrid powertrain from the X5 xDrive45e, as BMW marches relentlessly along its electrification strategy. The two cars are based on similar versions of BMW’s CLAR platform, and the larger X7 should have more than enough room around its chassis to store the battery pack and motor.
The system blends a straight-six petrol engine with an 83kW electric motor and a 24kWh battery, for a combined output of 290kW and 600Nm. In the X5, the powertrain delivers a real-world electric range of between 65 and 70km, although that figure will decrease once the system has been bolted to the heavier X7.
When the revised model makes its debut, we’re expecting an incremental increase in prices across the board to offset the cost of the new look. As such, it’s likely that the range will kick off from around $135-140,000.
Luke Wilkinson