A few weeks after BMW officially confirmed the development of the second-generation X7, the first photos of a heavily camouflaged prototype have emerged, captured during early road testing. The upcoming iteration of the luxury SUV hints at a significant update to the current model, rather than a complete overhaul, while also aligning itself with BMW’s bold new design and technology philosophy.
Spotted in public for the first time, the prototype reveals subtle yet telling details. Most notably, the vehicle is equipped with functional exhaust pipes, confirming that internal combustion engines will continue to play a role in the next-gen X7 — though an all-electric version also seems to be in consideration.
The SUV appears to retain familiar design elements, such as its signature split-headlight layout and the structural C-pillar shape from the current X7, introduced in 2019. This has led experts to suggest that the new model is likely based on an evolved version of BMW’s Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform, already underpinning the current X7, 7 Series, and electric i7 saloons.
Interestingly, while keeping the traditional layout, the prototype adopts styling cues from BMW’s future-forward Neue Klasse design language, particularly the gloss-black front fascia — a feature expected to become a hallmark across upcoming models including the 3 Series, X3, and 5 Series.
Although BMW has not yet confirmed a launch date, leaked dealer documents in the U.S. suggest the second-generation X7 may debut in 2027, following the release of the new X5 expected in 2026.
BMW’s R&D chief Frank Weber emphasized a shift in engineering philosophy, stating:
“We have to detach ourselves from how we have perceived platforms up to now… It’s not so much the platform structure itself but the individual components and how you use them.”
This approach highlights BMW’s growing emphasis on modularity, with increased focus on how engines, motors, battery cells, and software systems can be shared and networked across the product lineup.
The next-generation X7 will be just one piece of a much broader transformation. Starting with the launch of the new iX3 at this year’s IAA Mobility Show in Munich, BMW plans to either replace or significantly update every vehicle in its range, embracing a unified Neue Klasse identity.
BMW Group design head Adrian van Hooydonk confirmed this strategy, noting:
“We’re going to change the look and feel of the BMW brand… It would not be good for us or our customers if there were a new type of BMW and a ‘classic’ type.”
While the brand’s future seems well-charted for most models, one question remains: what lies ahead for the 4 Series and 8 Series? For now, their fate within the Neue Klasse vision is still unclear — a detail sure to keep enthusiasts and industry observers watching closely.
Source: Autocar
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