Flagship BMW X7 not expected in India in 2019

IAB learns that the BMW X7 "is not a priority" for BMW India at this time, and SUVs such as the all-new X5 & X4, along with the BS6-ready versions of other SUVs, are the areas of focus in 2018 and 2019.

The BMW X7 was previewed by the Concept X7 iPerformance at last year's Frankfurt Motor Show. Recently, its exterior was leaked in a handful of patent images that surfaced on the web world. The flagship SAV is likely to make its world debut at the 2018 LA Auto Show in November.

As revealed by the patent images, the production model mirrors the concept to a great extent. It features larger headlamps, a relatively smaller kidney grille, and an updated bumper design. In the side profile, it sports conventional mirrors and door handles. At the rear-end, the changes will include a slightly softer design for the tailgate, updated tail lamps, and a new bumper. The glass roof of the concept has been replaced with a dual-pane panoramic sunroof.

Underpinning the BMW X7 will be the CLAR rear-wheel-drive platform. As per some leaked data, the new model will be sold in 6 engine variants - xDrive30i, xDrive30d, xDrive40i, xDrive40d, xDrive50i and xDrive50d. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and automatic transmission will be standard across all the powertrain options. Engine choices will include 3.0-, 4.4-litre, and 2.0-litre units. The company could launch a 610 PS 6.6-litre V12 engine and a plug-in hybrid variant with a 2.0-litre petrol engine and an electric motor at a later stage.

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The global rollout of the BMW X7 is likely to take place towards the end of this year. In India, the Bavarian carmaker is currently focussed on upgrading its current lineup to achieve BSVI-compliance. Earlier this month, the manufacturer launched a BSVI-compliant petrol version of the BMW X1. Next year the company will rollout the new X4 & X5, perhaps reserving the X7 for a showcase at the Auto Expo 2020.