The 2019 BMW X7 has been revealed internationally ahead of a second quarter 2019 Australian release. Launched as the biggest BMW product in history, the X7 will fly the BMW flag in the upper large SUV segment against rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz GLS, Infiniti QX80, Range Rover and Lexus LX.
Using the same CLAR platform as the smaller X5, the X7 will be launched in Australia just after the all-new version of the X5 SUV. The X7 continues the company’s recent product onslaught and is the first new segment entrant for BMW in the last few years.
According to the brand, the 2019 BMW X7 “blends lavish presence, exclusivity and spaciousness with the versatile and agile driving properties customers would expect from a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). The latest and largest model in the BMW X line-up uses its outstanding powertrain and chassis technology, plus generous levels of space in each of its three rows of seats, a luxurious ambience and advanced equipment features, to deliver an unparalleled driving and interior experience.”
“The new BMW X7 represents the next stage in the premium carmaker’s ongoing model offensive in the luxury segment. Its increased presence in the class and the systematic expansion of the BMW X model portfolio are among the key areas the BMW Group has identified – as part of its NUMBER ONE > NEXT strategy – to ensure sustained growth in the world’s car markets in the future.”
While identifiable as a BMW from the styling, the X7 ushers the brand’s styling into new territory. Boxier than the X5, the X7 is styled for maximum interior space. As previewed by the X7 iPerformance concept car from the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, the X7’s front grille is massive, while the sleek headlights next to it give a sleek look. The rear uses similar tailights to the 7 Series, with an upright tailgate offering a large boot.
As is visible from the pictures, the X7 is a large brute. Measuring 5,151mm long, 2,000mm wide, 1,805mm tall and with a 3,105mm wheelbase, the X7 is 230mm longer, 30mm wider, 68mm taller and with a 130mm longer wheelbase. Bootspace is listed as 326-litres with all seats upright, with up to 2,150-litres available with the second and third rows of seating folded. Like the X5, the X7 offers seating for up to seven occupants, with an electrically-sliding middle row available to ease access into the third row. Captain’s chairs that reduce the seating capacity to six will be available optionally.
The X7 uses the same engines – two petrol and two diesel – as the new X5, with four drivetrains offered worldwide for now. The xDrive40i uses a 250kW/450Nm turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine, with the xDrive50i using a 340kW/650Nm turbocharged V8. Diesel power is covered by the 195kW/620Nm xDrive30d and the quad-turbo xDriveM50d, which offers a huge 294kW of power and 760Nm of torque. All engines are matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
Available features with the 2019 BMW X7 extended to BMW’s laser light adaptive high beam that can reach 600m ahead, the company’s latest OS7.0 operating system with intelligent voice control from the new 3 Series, a three-panel panoramic glass roof, five-zone climate control, a 20-speaker sound system, heated and cooled cupholders, a dual-panel rear entertainment system and wheels up to 22-inches in diameter. Like other BMW models, the company’s lines are available – in this case, buyers can choose from M Sport or Design Pure Excellence, and colours and trims depend on the line chosen.
The 2019 BMW X7 will be launched in Australia in the second quarter of 2019, with local pricing and specifications to be announced before then. Australian models are yet to be announced, though both diesel variants are confirmed to be part of the X7 range when it launches.
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