BMW X7 was a sure thing

BMW recently expanded production capacity at Spartanburg in the US where BMW makes most of its SUVs. More than that actually, they increased capacity by 50 per cent – so something big is afoot and that is an X7 which will compete with the likes of Audi’s Q7, VW Touareg, Benz GL class and other big, luxury SUVs.

BMW X3, X5, X5 M, X6 and X6 M models have been manufactured so far in Spartanburg, BMW’s centre of competence for X vehicles. They recently added the X4 fast back to the production schedule.

BMW is open about the X7 saying "With the BMW X7, we are developing another, larger X model, which we will produce at our US plant for our world markets - once again underscoring our commitment to the US."

The range topping SUV will feature plenty of flow on features from the 7 Series passenger cars including luxury kit, technology and powertrains. Think 3.0-litre turbo diesel six cylinder as a starting point - with eight speed automatic transmission. Also factor in the latest in digital connectivity and think reasonably good off road ability on some models.

It will probably weigh well over two tonnes and approach the size of a Toyota Landcruiser, perhaps bigger an style-wise, the X7 will share the family look - much like a scaled up X5 which isn’t a bad thing gauged off the new model X5.

Prices? Toss a coin, but rest assured there will be an extensive list of options and availability is likely here sometime next year.