BMW makes way for a $100,000+ X7 version, the X2 crossover, and an all-new flagship

By Miles Branman March 29, 2016

BMW X5 — BMW X5 Image used with permission by copyright holder

Premium SUVs are hot with a capital H right now, as Mercedes-Benz, Land Rover, Bentley, Lamborghini, and Rolls Royce are all hard at work at their individual interpretations (or are creating new versions) of the segment.

We’ve known for some time now that BMW was working on a flagship SUV to be named the X7, and now Automotive News is reporting that it will debut in two versions: a standard seven-seater, and a super luxury four-seater iteration costing $100,000 or more.

BMW brand executive Ian Robertson also mentioned that the automaker will launch another small crossover that will come to the U.S., and our money is on the rumored X2.

The four-seater X7 is part of an internal movement at BMW to expand its GKL models (Grand Klasse in German), which include the redesigned 7 Series. The X7 will also have a unique look as compared to the X5, and our bets are on styling cues from the new 7 Series. The X7 is due in 2018 and will be built in BMW’s factory in Spartanburg, S.C.

y

When asked if the more premium X7 is an answer to the rumored Mercedes-Maybach SUV, Robertson responded that, “the quintessential luxury is still the [BMW-owned] Rolls-Royce — we do not need a Maybach.” However, the Rolls Royce SUV will undoubtedly be priced in line with Bentley’s near-$300,000 Bentayga, so that leaves plenty of room for a luxurious BMW to slot within the $100,000 — $200,000 range.

Speaking of the Rolls Royce SUV, the X7 won’t share any components with the vehicle that’s also due in 2018. The Rolls will use an aluminum space-frame chassis while the X7 will use a monocoque structure, according to Robertson.

Beyond the X7, Robertson didn’t confirm that an 8 or 9 Series is on the way, but he did say more GKL vehicles were coming, one of which is well into development. “This is not something we dreamt up last week,” Robertson said. Sounds like a new flagship to me.

As for the upcoming X2, BMW is keen to get it to market, as 40 percent of BMW’s total U.S. sales come from that segment. Meanwhile, the brand’s sedan sales are slowing.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Miles Branman doesn't need sustenance; he needs cars. While the gearhead gene wasn't strong in his own family, Miles…

Cars

Mercedes-Benz EQG: range, price, release date, and more

Concept image of the larger electric G-Wagon

The G-Class is going electric. We already knew that Mercedes-Benz was working on an electric, small-size G-Wagon, but it looks like the company is also working on a larger G-Class SUV, in the form of the EQG. In fact, Mercedes has gone as far as to show off a concept version of the off-roader.

While there's much we don't know about what will become the production model of the EQG, Mercedes has also shared a lot about it. Curious about whether the Mercedes-Benz EQG could be the EV for you? Here's everything we know so far.
Design
Fear not -- the EQG will retain many of the design aspects of the G-Class that you already know and love but with a modern face-lift. The EQG will keep the boxy design that gives the G-Class a classic look but with some additional modern styling, at least if the concept version is anything to go by.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs

Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs R1S: How will Rivian’s cheaper SUV compare?

The front three-quarter view of a 2022 Rivian against a rocky backdrop.

Rivian has finally unveiled the R2, its long-awaited attempt at a more affordable electric SUV. The new vehicle may not be available just yet, but fans of Rivian's design aesthetics and feature set are already looking forward to being able to order the new car. The R2 is targeted at being a more affordable take on the electric SUV and will sit alongside the flagship-tier R1S.

Let's get this out of the way right now: The R1S is most likely going to be a better vehicle than the R2. Rivian isn't replacing the R1S with the R2 — it's releasing the R2 as a more affordable alternative, and there will be some compromises when buying the R2 over the R1S.