BMW may be moving closer to expanding its SUV lineup with a larger flagship model after new trademark filings for the name “X9” surfaced in Germany. While the automaker has not confirmed plans for such a vehicle, the filings come as dealers continue to push for a full-size luxury SUV capable of competing with some of the largest models on the market.
Dealers Continue to Push for a Larger BMW SUV
Earlier this year, reports indicated that BMW dealers wanted a full-size crossover to compete with vehicles such as the Cadillac Escalade, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, and Lincoln Navigator.
Although BMW already offers the X7, the model measures more than 200 inches in length and rides on a wheelbase exceeding 120 inches. Even so, some dealers believe there is room for an even larger SUV in the lineup.
Trademark Filings Point to the X9 Name
BMW has not officially announced whether it will develop an Escalade rival, but recent trademark filings suggest the idea remains under consideration.
The company has submitted three pending trademark applications for the name “X9.” One application covers the entire European Union, while two additional filings were submitted in Germany. BMW has also filed an application for the name “BMW X9.”
The filings are intended to secure the X9 name for automotive use and prevent other companies from using it.
Alpina Version Could Also Be Planned
Before the X9 trademark applications appeared, BMW had already filed paperwork to secure the name “XB9.”
The naming convention suggests a possible Alpina version of the future SUV, similar to the outgoing XB7. Since Alpina now operates fully under BMW, the company has been filing trademarks for names that could be used on future models.
The report also notes the possibility that the X3 M could eventually become a full Alpina model under the XB3 name.
Potential Competition
If introduced, a BMW X9 would compete with large luxury SUVs including the Cadillac Escalade, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, and Lincoln Navigator. The report notes that the popularity of these models, particularly the Escalade, demonstrates continued demand for full-size luxury SUVs.
An Alpina variant could also compete with the Escalade V.
Among European luxury SUVs, the recently updated Mercedes-Maybach GLS is mentioned as a potential competitor, although it is described as being more comparable to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan. The report also notes that BMW owns Rolls-Royce, making the positioning of a possible X9 an important consideration. In addition, Audi could enter the segment with the recently spotted Q9 Horch.
BMW Has Not Confirmed Its Plans
The report notes that another possibility is for the X9 to become an off-road-focused model similar in concept to the Mercedes G-Class. However, no decision has been confirmed, and BMW has not announced official plans for the X9.
For now, the trademark filings provide the clearest indication that BMW is protecting the X9 name while leaving open multiple possibilities for how the model could fit into its future SUV lineup.
