BMW’s Mercedes G-Class Rival Is Starting To Look Real

BMW recently filed a patent for a ladder frame chassis, prompting widespread speculation that the Bavarians are preparing to challenge Mercedes-Benz’s hold on the luxury off-road segment with a direct rival to the G-Wagon. Fresh leaks and reports from within BMW have now revealed new information about this proposed flagship SUV project, codenamed G74. It's starting to look like BMW is serious about shaking up the ultra-premium adventure vehicle space by targeting wealthy buyers seeking the perfect marriage of luxury and off-road capability. 

A New Strategy

BMW’s G74 project signals a major shift in the carmaker’s premium SUV strategy. The new vehicle, expected to be badged the X9, is being developed as a spiritual successor to the XM performance SUV. This time around, however, BMW seems to be focusing more on luxury and off-road ability, rather than outright speed and sportscar-inspired dynamics, in response to a growing demand for adventure-ready luxury platforms. 

BMW’s recent ladder frame patent had most of us believing that this new SUV would feature BMW’s first body-on-frame design in over half a century, in an effort to create a rugged vehicle with serious off-road credentials. However, industry sources claim that BMW has decided to go with a reinforced version of its CLAR (Cluster Architecture) unibody construction. Going this route could enable the SUV to deliver excellent on-road handling and comfort, while still retaining serious off-road capability. We expect the production-ready car to sport a bespoke adaptive air suspension and electronically-controlled locking differentials, which, in conjunction with generous ground clearance, should make short work of challenging terrain. Four-wheel steering could also be integrated to help with manoeuvrability in tight spaces, whether in the urban jungle or out on the trails. 

Under the Hood

While no official confirmation about powertrains has been received, speculation points towards a PHEV-supplemented version of BMW’s 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that could put out over 700 thoroughbred German horses. BMW is also reportedly investigating Range-Extender Electric Vehicle (REEF) platforms in conjunction with ZF. This system would pair an onboard combustion generator with electric drive motors, resulting in precise control of individual wheels and instant torque delivery. 

To Be Built in South Carolina 

Unlike other speculative future BMW models, the G74 is reportedly already on the brand’s long-term production schedule, with manufacturing due to start during the second half of 2029. Production is expected to take place at BMW’s Spartanburg facility in South Carolina, where several of the brand’s high-volume SUVs are built. 

A New Challenger

For years now, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has ruled the luxury off-road space, with no real challengers coming forth. BMW is looking to change this with the G74, which, if done right, could become one of the most significant additions to BMW’s SUV lineup in recent times. While we are still years away from production, the prospect of a rugged, boxy, and luxurious BMW off-roader with a V8 under the hood is definitely enticing. 

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