The 2028 BMW X7 is shaping up to be a major redesign for the German automaker’s flagship SUV, with reports pointing to new styling, a revised interior, additional rear-seat screens and the possible return of a more conventional tailgate. The next-generation X7 and its all-electric iX7 counterpart are expected to make their world premieres in 2027, with both models slated for the 2028 model year.
BMW Prepares for a Busy 2027
BMW has had a busy 2026, introducing a wave of new and updated vehicles, including the i3, redesigned X5 and first-ever iX5, heavily updated 7 Series and i7, all-new 3 Series, and most recently, the iX4. Several of these launches are part of a broader product rollout that will continue into 2027.
Next year could bring a facelifted 5 Series, a new electric hatchback and the M3 in both combustion-engine and electric versions. BMW is also preparing the second-generation X7, which will expand the company’s lineup of large luxury SUVs.
Next-Generation BMW X7 Could Get a New Design
The X7 has been spotted testing several times, including versions powered by combustion engines and the fully electric iX7. Reports also suggest that some early production batches may already be underway as BMW prepares for the SUV’s launch.
Details about the flagship SUV remain limited, but a recent online post claims to reveal several design changes. According to the post, the redesigned X7 could look more like the 7 Series than simply a larger version of the X5.
New Grille, Split Headlights and a Larger Body
The post claims the next-generation X7 will feature a conventional grille and a split-headlight arrangement similar to the 7 Series. Its taillights are reportedly expected to resemble those of the X5, while the SUV’s overall dimensions will be slightly larger than those of the outgoing model.
One of the most notable reported changes is the removal of BMW’s split tailgate. The design has been a feature of BMW SUVs for nearly 30 years, and its possible discontinuation would mark a significant change for the X7.
Test vehicles have reportedly continued to feature a split tailgate, however, leaving uncertainty over whether the production model will adopt a single-piece design.
BMW X7 Interior Could Gain More Screens
The redesigned X7 is also expected to receive an interior similar to the latest X5, particularly around the dashboard. BMW has been expanding the use of its Panoramic Vision layout across its vehicle lineup, and the new flagship SUV is reportedly set to follow the same direction.
The rear cabin could receive more substantial changes. The post claims that both the X7 and electric iX7 will adopt door-mounted screens for controlling various functions. A ceiling-mounted screen for onboard entertainment is also reportedly being considered as an optional feature.
These potential additions would give the rear cabin a more technology-focused layout, further positioning the X7 as the SUV counterpart to the 7 Series.
Alpina XB7 Could Join Production in Spartanburg
Another major claim is that pre-production versions of the redesigned X7 may already be under construction. The post also alleges that a small number of Alpina-badged models are moving along the production line at BMW’s Spartanburg plant.
If accurate, the activity would indicate that the facility is preparing to build the next-generation X7 and iX7. Both models are expected to be assembled in Spartanburg.
The name of the new Alpina version has not been finalized, although it is likely to retain the XB7 name. The report does not specify whether Alpina will make exterior or interior changes to distinguish its version from the regular X7.
Alpina now operates as a marque under the BMW Group, with a promise of greater distinction from standard BMW models.
2028 BMW X7 Expected to Debut in 2027
The second-generation BMW X7 is scheduled for its world premiere in 2027 and is expected to arrive as a 2028 model. The same timeline could apply to the Alpina version, with both vehicles expected to be built in Spartanburg.
BMW has not yet confirmed the reported details, and the full specifications and design of the next-generation X7 will become clear when the SUV is officially unveiled.
