BMW confirmed the all-new X7 full-size SUV last week. It went as far as to set a 2016 production date, which will commence in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
Based upon an extended version of the X5 platform, the range-topping crossover will compete against cars like the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, the Cadillac Escalade, and the Range Rover.
Frankly, I am surprised it took this long to bring the X7 to market. BMW’s chief competitors had been doing quite well with their full-size luxury family haulers. I wonder why it took Bimmer so long to jump on the bandwagon.
We speculated last week that the X7 would be aimed at the up-and-coming markets, like China, India, and Russia. With production slated for South Carolina, though, I wonder if most X7 sales will initially take place Stateside, much like the Alabama-built Mercedes GL.
Another theory we threw around is that the rumored Rolls-Royce SUV would ride on the X7’s platform. While that is still a possibility, I expected the Roller to feature a bit more bespoke chassis than that of a lengthened X5. Likely, few Rolls buyers will know the difference between a distinctive platform and that of a Bimmer-sourced unit. So, why not?
If the X7 looks anything like the Autocar-created rendering above, which is far more masculine and menacing than the GL, it should sell well indeed.
As soon as we learn more of the big-time Bimmer, we’ll be sure to bring it to you, so be sure to check back soon.
