BMW X8 Prototype Makes Spy Debut And Our Only Question Is: What On Earth?

Well isn’t this just dandy? Just when we thought we knew what to expect from BMW, they go and pull a fast one like this X8 prototype looking completely unlike any other BMW crossover currently on sale.

Usually, that tends to be a good thing, being surprised by something in the car industry. However, BMW hasn’t exactly been hitting home runs in terms of design lately and the latest spy shots of the next 7-Series, X7, and now the X8 raise more questions on the subject.

We’re officially worried that the X8 might look kind of odd and if that turns out to be the case, then we’ll end up with yet another polarizing flagship model from a carmaker that managed to turn two of its most iconic nameplates into something controversial styling-wise: the 7-Series and the M3.

Anyway, we don’t want you to think we’re hating on BMW, we’re just worried about them, that’s all.

Now, let’s talk about what we can deduce from this X8 prototype, the first thing being the clear fact that it won’t just be a sloped-roof version of the X7. Granted, reports about the X8 featuring its own identity are nothing new, but a complete departure from pretty much all other BMW crossovers? Bold strategy.

The shoulder line is very different from what you’d see on an X4 or X6 (maybe a bit similar to the X2), while the flared fenders at the rear seem a little VW Atlas Cross Sport-ish. Then there’s the tailgate, where a pair of horizontal taillights meet a rather traditional-looking rear window, one that doesn’t appear to curve as much as it would on other BMW coupe crossovers, and it’s certainly not as sloped – it’s more like a 2-Series Active Tourer window.

As for the front fascia, we can tell from where the hood meets the lateral body panels that again, this is no ordinary BMW. Seeing the prototype parked next to an X7 is actually quite revealing. Split headlights are also a possibility by the way, but we obviously can’t say for sure.

What about powertrains?

Early rumors spoke of an X8 M45e plug-in hybrid variant, the same setup that pumps 388 HP (394 PS) and 443 lb-ft (600 Nm) of torque into the X5 xDrive45e. If that comes to pass, expect more power overall for the X8 M45e – which you’ll be getting anyway if BMW also builds an X8 M range-topper.

The latter could put down a rumored 750 HP, with the aid of a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system, similar to the one in the M5 and the new M3 Competition.

We believe BMW will unveil the X8 sometime next year, in time for a 2022 sales debut.