For those that were a cramped in the X5.
BMW has confirmed the launch of a new range-topping SUV model, called the X7.
The X7 will be the biggest SUV ever produced by BMW. It will go into production in 2016 in its Spartanburg plant in North America.
Underpinning the X7 is an extended version of the architecture that forms the basis of the X5 and X6 models that are also built in the Spartanburg plant.
The big new SUV is set to be a direct rival to the Mercedes-Benz GL, its relationship to the X5 the same as the GL’s is to the smaller ML on which it is based.
The X7 is set to be a seven-seater with a proper third row of seats, thanks to a longer wheelbase and extended rear overhang when compared to the X5.
Unlike the X5 that has rear-wheel drive and a four-cylinder engine in base form, the X7 IS set to be offered with four-wheel drive only and exclusively six- and eight-cylinder engines to reflect its premium positioning at the top of an extended range of BMW SUVs.
The announcement of the new X7 was made by BMW boss Norbert Reithofer at a celebration of 20 years of manufacturing at the Spartanburg plant. The ceremony coincided with the start of production of the new X4, the fourth SUV to be built at the plant after the X3, X5 and X6.
A new X6 is due to be revealed this summer ahead of sales later this year. X5 M and X6 M models are also built in Spartanburg.
To meet expected demand for the X4 and new X7 models, BMW is investing $1 billion (£600 million) in the Spartanburg plant between now and 2016. Capacity will increase from the current 300,000 units up to 450,000 units.
BMW has confirmed the X7 will be sold in all of its “world markets”, including Europe, but demand is expected to be strongest in the likes of North America and China.