BMW Reportedly Developing New Flagship SUV to Rival G-Class

BMW is reportedly developing a new flagship SUV that is set to rival the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

BMW is no stranger in the SUV game, as the Bavarian automaker currently holds one of the most comprehensive SUV lineups in the industry. That said, it seems that the automaker is now in the midst of developing a new flagship SUV that is rugged enough to go against the likes of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and the Range Rover.

Inside sources speaking to Autonews suggest that this new flagship BMW SUV is now in development, where it is set to go into production later in 2029. While the official BMW spokesperson refused to comment further on this report, this new model is said to be assembled at BMW’s Spartanburg plant in the US, which is already home to some BMW SUVs like the X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and even the XM.

This upcoming SUV, codenamed G74, will reportedly share the same platform as the next-gen X5.

Internally coded as the G74, this new flagship SUV is said to ride on the next-generation X5’s unibody platform rather than the larger X7’s, citing that the shorter X5 platform will help to improve its capabilities on rough and arduous terrains.

Given slow demands for the electric G-Class, it seems that BMW will stick with the ICE powertrain for this unnamed SUV, although there is no mention of whether it’ll get some partial electrification assist.

BMW X5 Silver Anniversary Edition

While BMW doesn’t have a proper, hardcore off-road SUV in its lineup, the Bavarian automaker did delve into the rugged SUV territory, as evidenced by several rugged, adventure-ready specials like the BMW X5 Silver Anniversary. This special model comes standard with the xOffroad package, which adds beefier suspension, a more rugged look, as well as specialised off-road software to transform the sporty X5 into a capable off-roader.

BMW XM Label Red

More importantly, it seems like this upcoming rugged SUV could take the place of the XM to become the flagship SUV model for the Bavarian automaker, albeit with a completely different mission. While the XM, which is the first standalone BMW M model since the M1 supercar, is focused on sporty performance and luxury, this new SUV will focus more on the adventurous side.

Mercedes-AMG G63

In fact, the decision to go rugged with its flagship SUV stems from BMW’s belief that a rugged, off-road-capable SUV will resonate more with high-end buyers than the road-focused XM. Using the Mercedes-Benz G-Class as a yardstick, there is also a possibility that this rugged SUV will even spawn a hotter M version, just like what Merc did with the Mercedes-AMG G63.

Source: Autonews