We knew this was coming, it was just a matter of getting a confirmation. Following its X range of successful SUVs, BMW has decided to move a step ahead by developing a new flagship model – the X7, which will be the biggest of the range, surpassing the X5.
BMW has also announced a future $1 billion investment for its Spartanburg plant in South Carolina where the new X7 and the X4 will be built. The additional investment will be used to increase production capacity to meet global demand for BMW’s X range of models.
Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management, BMW Group, says, "Plant Spartanburg was built to enhance and expand the BMW line-up, underscoring the BMW Group commitment to the United States. In addition to the X3, X5, X6, and the new X4, we are today announcing another all-new, larger X model to be manufactured exclusively at this plant for our world markets: the X7."
Since the start of production back in 1994, the Spartanburg plant has produced over 2.6 million vehicles. BMW currently makes the X3, X5, X5 M, X6 and X6 M at the facility. Besides the upcoming X7, BMW has revealed that it will also produce the X4 and a plug-in hybrid version of the X5.
BMW currently has the X5 as a flagship of its X range of vehicles. Now although it is as luxurious and competent as the cars from rival brands, the X5 is not quite the ideal match for the likes of the Range Rover or the Mercedes GL-Class. The upcoming X7, then, will not only spearhead BMW’s X range but will also help the brand compete more effectively against the heavyweights in the premium luxury SUV space.
Source: Autoguide