BMW promised to unveil something pretty big at the Frankfurt Motor Show and they weren’t kidding as the company will introduce the new X7 iPerformance concept.
Designed to preview the upcoming production model, the pictures provided by Wheelsage show the concept is a massive crossover with an enormous grille that is gaudy enough to make an Escalade blush. The bold styling is visible elsewhere as the concept has vertical styling elements in the front air intakes and an impressive amount of metallic trim.
Moving further back, we can see flush-mounted door handles and an electric charging port on the front fender. Designers also installed massive alloy wheels and a panoramic glass roof. Rounding out the styling features are a ventilated rear bumper and slender taillights.
The cabin takes a different approach as it appears much more luxurious and subtle than the exterior. Details will be announced on September 8th but we can see the concept has two-tone leather seats, wood trim, and bright accents. Technology will also pay a major role as drivers will be surrounded by a digital instrument cluster, an iDrive infotainment system, and a futuristic steering wheel.
While rumors initially suggested the concept would feature a fuel-cell powertrain, that doesn’t appear to be the case. Instead, the X7 iPerformance will likely use a plug-in hybrid powertrain like the 740e iPerformance which has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is backed up by an electric motor and a 9.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
The production model is slated to be offered with at least three different engines including a 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder with 335 hp (250 kW) and a 4.4-liter TwinTurbo Turbo V8 developing 445 hp (332 kW). There could also be a diesel-powered X7 xDrive 40d but a U.S. launch remains uncertain at this point.
Thanks to Niko for the tip!
* Update – we’ve added more photos to the gallery
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