BMW’s Concept X7 iPerformance hints at the 2018 BMW X7 set to complete the Bavarian makers SUV line up.
BMW has been giving hints lately that the BMW X5 needs a big brother to rival the Mercedes GLS, Infiniti QX80, Lexus LX and Range Rover. The Concept also hints at future BMW X model design language. The front gets a large, vertical kidney grille with single piece bar. Slim laser lights link seamlessly to the grille whilst a prominent bar extends across the full width of the lower section front apron rising vertically to frame the outer air intakes at their upper edge. Customary X features like the trapezoidal bumpers and underguard, meanwhile, are merely hinted at, their understated design serving the cause of clear and exclusive surfacing. The X7 has bigger proportions compared to the X5 but hides its dimensions well. The wheel arches feature a circular cut thus emphasizing elegance of the flanks whilst 23-inch alloy wheels show masculinity.
The rear gets vertical aero lips and within the upright rear silhouette, the slim rear lights break up the body volumes and a classy chrome bar connects the two lighting elements. The boldly designed lights create a three-dimensional L shape and bring a technical, high-quality flavour to the rear. As at the front of the car, the surfaces frame the lights like jewels.
The X7 gets a 7-seat interior will lightness dominating the layout through a large panoramic glass roof. The six seats are arranged in 3 rows with all seats finished in a dark, olive-bronze leather trim for the seat bolsters whilst white leather covers the rest of the seats. The dark shoulder line running underneath the windows traces a continuous horizon throughout the cabin that brings fresh calmness to the bright interior.
The dash retains the driver-focused layout so familiar to BMW drivers. The 12.3-inch instrument cluster screen and central touchscreen information display are sited at close quarters to one another. A new operating concept allows interactive use of the two displays. Interactive LED choreography via the doors and instrument panel traces the communication flow between the rear screens and the display at the front of the cabin.
No information was given on the drivetrain for the Concept X7 but BMW surely uses an electric motor. Production models will retain traditional BMW TwinPower engines as seen on the BMW 7-Series.