The BMW X7 Concept iPerformance shows a very interesting future for BMW. The high level of user technology and the well-done interior is a welcomed improvement over current vehicles. The fit and finish within the cabin appear to be top-notch and the large screens give the driver plenty of information in a modern yet simplistic manner. Add to that the fuel-sipping eDrive powertrain, and the X7 iPerformance shows huge promises. It’s been a long time coming for BMW to finally bring a three-row SUV to market, especially considering how many different versions of the 3, 4, and 5 Series sedans it has.
The one thing is that BMW lacks is a three-row SUV. That will change when the X7 Sport Activity Vehicle begins production for the 2018 model year. In the mean time, BMW has teased the X7 with this concept version. It’s a heavily stylized and futuristic interpretation of what the X7 will be, and comes packed with high-tech features and overstated design elements.
The BMW X7 Concept IPerformance will ride on BMW’s CLAR platform, which is currently used in the 7 Series sedan. Powertrain specifications haven’t been detailed, but BMW says the X7 will offer electric propulsion, which BMW calls eDrive, paired with a TwinPower Turbo engine. This is where the iPerformance designation comes in. The gasoline-electric hybrid system will be of the plug-in variety and can run in full EV mode with zero local emissions. We expect BMW’s inline-six and V-8 engines will be available, too, with rear-wheel driving coming as standard and all-wheel drive being optional, perhaps depending on the powertrain. So, until BMW debuts the production version of the X7, this concept remains the best guess at what we can expect. Let’s just hope the overstyled exterior gets heavily toned down before the X7 hits showrooms in late 2018.
The interior of this BMW X7 is rather appropriate, though highly futuristic. But futuristic isn’t a bad trait, especially when backed by actual technology. The X7 features twin, 12.3-inch displays for the driver – one for the gauge cluster and the other for the infotainment system. More screens reside in the second row, allowing those passengers to keep up with navigation, adjust seat settings, check the weather, and even listen to their own music. Adding to the techno-flare, the software allows for interworking between applications. For example, a user can send an address to the navigation system from their email accessed on the screens.
The BMW’s iDrive system is reworked here, too. It features a large, low-rise knob surrounded by several shortcut menu buttons that are actually touch-sensitive panels. The same type buttons are used for the drive modes, traction control, and Park Sense features. The drive modes include Sport, Comfort, Adaptive, and Eco Pro. The gearshift looks as if it’s cut from a diamond. Aside from the indented Park button, it shines brightly like it’s under a jeweler’s cabinet.
