Few vehicles in BMW’s modern history represent such a bold leap as the X7. Before it came to market, BMW’s largest SUV – the X5 – could only claim to offer three-row functionality. But as American buyers demanded more space, more comfort and more luxury, the automaker realized there was a real need for something above the BMW X5. The result was the BMW X7, a full-size flagship SUV that redefined what a BMW could be. However, its creation was not easy.
Technically speaking, there was already demand for the BMW X7 before 2006. That year, the BMW X5 E70 introduced a third row of seats, but even then product planners knew that this would not be enough for those looking for a true SUV with three rows of seats. “Albert Biermann [project leader] did a phenomenal job, but it became clear that a third row wouldn’t work very well in the E70,” said Rich Brekus, then head of product planning and strategy at BMW NA. The third row, while newer and measurably larger – 7.4 inches longer, in fact – was hardly suitable for adults. Brekus: “It was clear there was a market for a larger X5, and we started asking for an X5L, like one $3,000 model upgrade.”
US based for US demand
The X5L didn’t materialize, but Munich was apparently the first manufacturer to bring the X7 to market. Headquarters liked the idea of a “flagship” over the X5. In addition, the segment was growing in popularity and BMW had no real new entrants. “A consumer who prefers European cars would never consider an American car if he or she wanted a BMW, a Porsche or a Mercedes. But that doesn’t apply when it comes to SUVs,” says Ludwig Willisch, then CEO of BMW NA. Willisch and the BMW board began seriously considering the model around 2011, but it wasn’t until 2014 that they saw a real opportunity for the X7. An ongoing $1 billion expansion at Spartanburg — the only BMW plant that assembles large SUVs — made it a logical testing ground for something like the X7.
Then the BMW X7 project took shape. Kate Alini may be marketing, product and strategy manager at MINI USA now, but back then she was tasked with navigating BMW’s high-end US roadmap – the 7 and 8 Series and now the new X7. She had a real reason to make the X7 as good as possible. As an X5 driver, she shared videos with supervisors in Munich that showed how difficult it could be to get her children out the door on the way back.
The BMW X7 becomes reality
The cluster architecture (CLAR) has changed the game for BMW. The existing X5 chassis was simply too small to provide any significant benefits. CLAR gave BMW the flexibility it needed to build a true BMW X7: something significantly and larger than the X5. A big sticking point for BMW was ensuring that the X7, the largest BMW to date, still drove like a BMW. “It was important that the Design played a big role in keeping the BMW X7, well, “BMWy.” Massive 22-inch wheels – the first to appear on a BMW – kept the X7 looking sporty and paid dividends in handling. Precise body lines, slim headlights and larger grilles gave the SUV a proportional look.
BMW X7: The one and only 7 Series SUV you think it is
The X7 finally debuted in 2017. It shares many similarities with the 7 Series, but there is one key feature that sets the two vehicles apart. While the people of Munich wanted a solid bench, Alini suggested captain’s chairs. “I had to convince Munich to make it optional,” says Alini. She showed them how children typically climb into the third row – over a bench seat, not around it. “They climb over the seats and their sneakers scratch the headliner.”
But even then there were creative differences. Apparently Munich wanted a center console between the two captain’s chairs. Which certainly makes sense if you think of the X7 as an “SUV sedan” and not a “kid hauler.” Alini also had to convince Munich to place the cup holders “correctly” – enough for each passenger. Finally, Alini insisted that the X7 get a split tailgate. Since the X7’s cargo space was still slightly smaller than many competitors, especially American ones, Alini had to make it “simpler and more accessible.”
Pre-orders for the BMW X7 began in 2018, with order banks opening shortly afterwards. Amazingly, the G07 is still in first generation, although a significant mid-life refresh in 2022 makes that easy to forget. It is one of BMW’s most lauded vehicles and sales remain strong despite its age. We saw the new BMW X7 testing. Will this SUV be able to match the elegance of the original? Only time will tell.
Source: BMW USA
