BMW Explores Possibility of a Flagship SUV Beyond the X7

Responding to requests from BMW dealers in the United States for a larger SUV option to attract customers who may be considering American brands like Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade, BMW is considering the development of a new flagship SUV.

During a recent interview at the unveiling of the i3 sedan, Bernd Körber, BMW’s product chief, highlighted the growing interest in super-sized SUVs. With the success of models like the X5 and X7, particularly in the United States and the Middle East, BMW is exploring the potential for a larger SUV option:

“BMW sees an opportunity to cater to the demand in the U.S. market for a larger SUV model. While the decision is not final, the company is open to the idea of expanding its SUV lineup globally.”

Körber emphasized the potential for a larger SUV model that aligns with the BMW brand and meets the requirements of the segment. However, the development of such a model is still under consideration, and there are no concrete plans at this stage.

If approved, the new flagship SUV could be one of the six electric SUVs planned for production at BMW’s Spartanburg facility by 2030. It is expected to offer plug-in hybrid options with powerful gas engines, distinguishing itself from the existing X5 and X7 models with enhanced off-road capabilities to compete with models like the G-Class and Defender.

While speculation about a potential “X9” model has been circulating, BMW has not confirmed any official plans. The company’s focus remains on the exploration of new models within the X lineup, with no definitive commitments yet.

Even without a flagship X9 model, BMW’s SUV range continues to expand. Upcoming releases include the iX5 and iX7 in the next few years, with a possible iX6 model by 2028. Additionally, BMW plans to introduce an iX4 and offer M Performance and full M variants for selected electric SUV models.

Despite ongoing developments in the SUV segment, BMW is also expected to discontinue certain models like the iX and XM, following the discontinuation of the X4 in recent years.