BMW X7 to see Australian debut early 2019

The incredible hulk will take over the top end of the SUV action at BMW next year with the seven-seater X7 primed for flagship action and family travel in Australia.

Pictures from Europe point to a big-and-brash addition to the BMW line-up, sitting above the existing five-seater X5 family wagon but with some overlap on pricing thanks to a likely starting spot around $150,000.

BMW Australia is still finalising details after the X7’s unveiling in Europe, but is working for an early arrival and a nice price. “It will be here in the first half of next year. We’re still working on the pricing but it will be very sharp,” says BMW Australia’s spokesperson, Lenore Fletcher.

The focus on the X7 is clearly on combining size and luxury, although it will also have similar technology to the 7 Series limousine.

It’s in the same class as the Toyota LandCruiser with seven adult seats, with BMW also planning a more-luxurious six-seater that’s not yet confirmed for Australia. “If you wanted to get a picture of where it sits, BMW says the X5 is The Boss and the X7 is The President,” Fletcher says.

“It’s very different to the X5. It’s still a family vehicle with the extra seats, but it’s also about refinement.”

Diesel engines will be the priority in the X7 range, which will all have permanent all-wheel drive with significant off-road ability and – crucial for Australia’s cashed-up grey nomads – plenty of towing power.

Paul Gover

As Motoring Editor for Executive Traveller, Paul Gover spends less time at his Gold Coast home than he does on the road (literally) test-driving the best of the four-wheel world.