BMW reveals the mighty flagship X7 SUV
BMW recently unveiled their new flagship SUV, the X7. The X7 intends to combine the comfort and opulence of a 7-series with the versatility and off-road capability of the new fourth-generation X5, with which is shares many mechanical and electric components.
The new SUV’s key design elements include a large kidney grille, angular LED headlights with optional laser projectors, a contoured bonnet, a tall glasshouse and a two-piece electric tailgate.
A standard variant and the M Sport trim is expected at the time of production.
The cabin of the X7 has the same design theme as the latest X5, with a multi-layered dashboard that houses a digital instrument panel and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment screen.
All three rows of seats can be adjusted electrically, and customers can spec a six-seat option in a 2+2+2 configuration as well, which includes individual second-row seats.
Boot capacity stands at 326 litres with all seven seats in place, but can be expanded to 740 litres with the two rearmost seats folded into the boot floor. With the second row seats stowed via a standard electric mechanism, the maximum capacity rises to 2,120 litres.
The model will be available with four engine options. The X7 xDrive40i uses a 340hp, 3.0-litre straight-six turbo-petrol engine that has a claimed a 0-100kph time of 6.1secs. The xDrive30d is powered by a 265hp, 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder diesel engine that is claimed to hit 100kph from standstill in 7.0secs.
The performance leader of the initial line-up is the X7 M50d. It uses a quad- turbocharged version of BMW’s 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder diesel engine that produces 400hp and 760Nm. This is sufficient to propel BMW’s largest SUV from 0-100kph in a claimed 5.4secs and on to a limited top speed of 250kph.
All engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox and come with BMW’s xDrive four-wheel-drive system, with the X7 M50d featuring an electronically controlled M Sport differential as part of its standard equipment.
