BMW X7 Concept images leak ahead of Frankfurt debut
Leaked photographs reveal the BMW X7 Concept’s design and key features before its official unveiling at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Photographs of the BMW X7 Concept surfaced online just days before its scheduled premiere at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, revealing the brand’s upcoming flagship SUV in full detail. The images, which appear to be official press shots, show a large, upright SUV with a prominent kidney grille and sharp-edged styling that marks a departure from BMW’s current SUV design language.
The X7 Concept is intended as a preview of BMW’s forthcoming production X7, which will sit above the X5 as the brand’s largest SUV. The leaked photos confirm several features previously hinted at by BMW, including a full-length glass roof with Y-shaped crossbars and a bold, upright stance. The grille is noticeably larger than on any current BMW, flanked by slim headlights and a sculpted front bumper. The overall look is more imposing and angular than the softer lines of the X5 or X6.
Seven-seat layout and interior highlights
Inside, the X7 Concept offers seating for up to seven passengers across three rows, a first for a BMW SUV. The cabin appears focused on luxury, with individual seats in the second row and a minimalist dashboard design. Large digital displays dominate the instrument panel and centre console, while the use of glass and metallic accents suggests a push upmarket to compete with the Mercedes-Benz GLS and Range Rover. The third row is present, though the leaked images suggest space may be limited for adults.
Design direction and production plans
BMW’s new styling direction for the X7 Concept is aimed squarely at the US and Chinese markets, where demand for large, luxury SUVs is strong. The concept’s proportions and details suggest BMW is targeting rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz GLS and Cadillac Escalade. The X7 is expected to use BMW’s modular CLAR platform, which underpins the 7 Series saloon, allowing for a range of petrol, diesel and hybrid powertrains in the production version.
- Oversized kidney grille signals new BMW SUV styling.
- Full-length glass roof with Y-shaped crossbars.
- Individual second-row seats and digital dashboard.
- Preview of production X7 expected in 2018.
BMW has not yet confirmed technical specifications or production details, but the production X7 is expected to launch in 2018. The concept’s bold styling and seven-seat layout mark a clear move to expand BMW’s SUV range at the top end, targeting buyers seeking more space and presence than the current X5 offers. The official unveiling at Frankfurt will provide further details on powertrains and market plans.
For more on concept debuts at Frankfurt, see Frankfurt 2015: The Concept Cars That Stole the Show.
