At almost 5.2 meters (almost 204 inches) long, the X7 is by no means a small vehicle. The second-generation model, which hits the market next year, is set to be even bigger, but BMW dealers want even more. Ideally, they would like something along the lines of an X8 that offers additional space for third row passengers.
Kirk Cordill, chairman of the BMW National Dealer Forum, said Automotive News that a flagship SUV is a necessity. He argued that a model positioned above the X7 would better attract customers who might otherwise gravitate toward American luxury ships like the Cadillac Escalade or Lincoln Navigator. An X8 would also be a stronger competitor to the Infiniti QX80, he added.
Interestingly, Cordill hinted that ALPINA could fill the gap at the top of BMW’s SUV hierarchy:
“We’ve had the opportunity to see some of the upcoming new ALPINA products and I think people will be really impressed with it. It’s a little further away, but it’s beautiful. I think we would do very well with the X9.”
The fact that it skipped a number in the naming order suggests that the XM could be considered “X8” internally. That would make sense considering the controversial model was often referred to as the X8 before its official debut.
If you read between the lines, a true BMW SUV jumbo seems increasingly likely. BMW ALPINA is now working on a more luxurious second generation X7 (G67). When it launches later this decade, it will have a separate internal codename: G69. However, an extended wheelbase seems unlikely. Especially now that U.S. dealers are pointing to a standalone, top-of-the-line SUV that stands above everything else.
That’s not all. We have already reported on the possibility of a “rugged” SUV codenamed G74. It’s expected to launch in 2029 and will feature a third row, an off-road center of gravity and a mix of hybrid and electric powertrains. An ALPINA variant seems unlikely as it would not suit the target group of this model.
BMW has announced that it plans to build at least six electric SUVs at its Spartanburg plant by 2030. Only the iX5 has been confirmed so far, but these rumored models could also be produced there alongside the very likely iX6 and iX7 models.
Source: Automotive News
