BMW X7 Could Get V12 From M760Li
The BMW X7 was recently launched in South Africa as an SUV variant of the German manufacturers flagship 7-Series. In fact, the two models share a lot of similarities like the massive kidney grilles and various drivetrains. At launch the BMW X7 was only available in entry-level 30d and quad-turbocharged M50d derivatives, with BMW South Africa promising a more potent M50i model to follow soon. The X7 M50i will make use of a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre petrol V8 to produce 390kW of power and 750Nm of torque.
However, even after the M50i was announced BMW still promised that more powerful X7 models would be on their way, and it seems that one of the new models may have been uncovered after digging around in some coding. An interesting ‘M60i’ logo was found in the coding for the X7’s digital instrument cluster, leading us to believe that BMW has plans to introduce a V12 model of the X7. This wouldn’t be difficult considering that the X7 is the SUV equivalent of the 7-Series, which is available with a V12 in the M760Li model.
The most likely engine to find its way into the X7 M60i is a turbocharged 6.6-litre V12 capable of producing 430kW of power and 850Nm of torque, as seen on the 2020 BMW M760Li facelift. It also accelerates the sedan from 0-100km/h in 3.8-seconds which looks promising for the 7-seater SUV. BMW also has a good business case to produce a V12 X7, especially now with the Mercedes-Maybach GLS SUV that will be arriving in November this year which will also make use of a V12 engine.
Also worth a look: the BMW Glc and the BMW M3.
FAQ
Q: What engine will the BMW X7 M60i have?
The BMW X7 M60i is expected to pack a turbocharged 6.6-litre V12 engine producing 430kW of power and 850Nm of torque, borrowed from the M760Li sedan.
Q: How fast will the BMW X7 M60i be?
Based on the M760Li's performance with the same V12 engine, the X7 M60i should sprint from 0-100km/h in around 3.8 seconds, which is seriously quick for a 7-seater SUV.
Q: Is the BMW X7 M60i confirmed for South Africa?
BMW hasn't officially confirmed the X7 M60i yet, but the discovery of M60i coding in the digital instrument cluster suggests it's definitely in the pipeline for global markets including South Africa.
Q: What will compete with the BMW X7 M60i?
The X7 M60i's main rival will be the Mercedes-Maybach GLS SUV, which also features a V12 engine and targets the same luxury performance SUV segment.
Q: How much will the BMW X7 M60i cost in South Africa?
BMW hasn't announced pricing yet, but expect the X7 M60i to cost well over R2,500,000 considering the current X7 M50i starts around R1,800,000 and this V12 model will sit above it.
Should You Buy It?
Hold your horses, chief. The BMW X7 M60i isn't available yet, and when it does arrive, it'll likely cost north of R2,500,000, making it a toy for the seriously wealthy. If you need a mental luxury SUV right now and have that kind of cash burning a hole in your pocket, the current X7 M50i at around R1,800,000 is already bonkers quick with its twin-turbo V8. For most South Africans looking for premium German SUV thrills under R2,000,000, stick with the proven M50i or wait to see if this V12 beast actually materialises.
