The new 2028 BMW X7 prototype has been spotted testing, showing off some key design changes. While the exterior lights might still be unfinished, the body panels look like those for a production model. The wheelbase is slightly longer than before, and the shoulder line now highlights the vehicle’s width rather than height. The front features split headlights, and the rear boasts four tailpipes arranged as two pairs of dual tips.
This quad-exhaust setup suggests the model could be a sportier M Performance version or an Alpina variant based on the M Performance range. However, BMW has not confirmed the exact engine options for the second-generation X7. According to unverified reports, the U.S. market will see 40 and M60 models with standard xDrive all-wheel drive. There may also be a powerful Alpina version based on the M60.
Built on an updated version of BMW’s CLAR platform, the 2028 X7 will showcase a kidney grille inspired by the X3. Like the upcoming Neue Klasse iX3, the new X7 should feature a high-tech interior. It will run BMW Operating System X and come with the BMW Panoramic iDrive system.
These systems will also appear in the next generations of the X5 and X6. New steering wheels with touch-sensitive controls are expected too. The cabin will likely offer advanced features like a 3D head-up display, an option BMW has already previewed on its Neue Klasse concept cars.
Unlike the current model, the second-generation X7 will also be offered as an all-electric version. Rumored to carry the codename G69, this zero-emission X7 will be built at BMW’s Spartanburg plant in South Carolina. This facility produces many BMW SUVs, including the X3 and the XM. Spartanburg employs around 11,000 workers and produces about 1,500 vehicles daily. Nearly 60% of these are shipped worldwide to over 120 markets.
The electric iX7 lineup is expected to include 50, 60, M70, and Alpina 100 versions. In Europe, the traditional gasoline and diesel X7 models will continue, including a 3.0-liter single-turbo diesel 40d xDrive.
Both the new X7 and iX7 are planned to be sold until late 2034. So far, no rumors hint at a dedicated high-performance M model beyond the M70 and electric M70 trims.
Following the example of the 2026 X7 M60 in the U.S., the next X7 will likely feature a V8 engine. The prime candidate is BMW’s S68 twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8. This engine produces 631 horsepower and 590 pound-feet (800 Newton-meters) of torque in the Alpina XB7.
The S68 engine replaced the previous S63 and debuted in the X7 M60i. It also powers the X6 M60i, BMW 760i xDrive, plug-in hybrid M5 and XM, as well as some Range Rover models and the limited Land Rover Defender OCTA performance SUV.
