BMW is gearing up to unveil a new flagship off-road SUV aimed at competing with heavyweights like the Land Rover Defender and the Mercedes G-Wagon. Codenamed G74, this upcoming seven-seater model will be positioned alongside the existing X7, but with a distinct emphasis on off-road capabilities. Production is set to take place at BMW’s Spartanburg facility in the USA, with a launch anticipated in 2029.
While specific details remain limited, the G74 is expected to showcase BMW’s Neue Klasse design aesthetic while incorporating rugged styling elements. Look forward to enhanced ground clearance, longer suspension travel, and approach, departure, and breakover angles that will surpass those of any current BMW SUV.
Inside, the G74 will feature a luxurious three-row cabin accommodating up to seven passengers, boasting a higher standard of materials and equipment than what’s typically seen in this segment. Though not officially confirmed, there’s speculation that it might resurrect the X8 name, which was once considered for a coupe-style version of the X7 that ultimately didn’t come to fruition.
The G74 will likely be built on a heavily modified version of BMW’s CLAR platform. This architecture supports both combustion and electric powertrains, and while it will initially feature an internal combustion engine, an electric variant is certainly a possibility. There’s also talk of a new range-extender powertrain being developed not just for the G74, but potentially for models like the X5 and X7 as well.
The chassis design will likely incorporate elements from the X5 and X7, featuring long-travel air suspension, up to three locking differentials, and advanced all-wheel drive with four-wheel steering to enhance agility on challenging terrain and stability at higher speeds.
It’s been nearly a century since BMW last produced a dedicated off-roader—the 325, which saw service in the German army from 1937 to 1940. The G74 marks a significant return for the brand to this segment.