A spy prototype of the 2028 BMW X7 M60 xDrive has been seen testing at the Nürburgring, displaying distinctive yellow daytime running lights and four exhaust tips. These features hint at the use of the powerful 4.4-liter S68 V8 engine under the hood, marking a clear nod to motorsport heritage and performance.
Yellow Daytime Running Lights Signal Motorsport Roots
The yellow DRLs spotted on this X7 M60 are more than just a style choice. BMW has applied these yellow lights to certain performance versions, such as the M4 CS and recently on some M-badged variants like the M350 xDrive and X5 M60. Unlike more common white DRLs on lesser models, the yellow lights draw inspiration from BMW’s endurance racing programs.
Yellow light has longer wavelengths, reducing glare in fog, rain, or dust. This improves visibility and depth perception at night, which is crucial during long endurance races. The use of yellow lighting also echoes the historic practice of French cars using yellow headlights for better performance in poor weather for decades up to the 1990s.
Performance and Design Cues of the New X7 M60
The prototype shows design details that fit the M60 designation, including four exhaust pipes that indicate the S68 V8 engine is present, similar to the outgoing model. While currently registered at 523 horsepower, modest performance gains may be limited by upcoming Euro 7 emission rules affecting the engine’s power output in Europe.
At the rear, slim, horizontal taillights are visible, stacked in a thin arrangement. Although camouflage covers parts of the car, the light signature resembles that of the iX7 prototype recently tested, suggesting a shared design language across BMW’s large SUV lineup.
This new X7 keeps a traditional SUV shape, avoiding the coupe-like sloping roof of the X6. The prototype wears bigger wheels and brake calipers than the iX7 mule, and unlike some versions, it features fixed door handles rather than pull-up types. However, a switch to pull-up handles is expected for China due to local regulations.
Future Models and Production Plans
BMW is not planning a dedicated full M variant for this generation X7. Instead, a range of Alpina models, codenamed G69, is in development. These will likely include the X7 40 xDrive, X7 60 xDrive, and an electric iX7 100 xDrive. Alpina versions are expected to offer six-seat configurations by default.
Production of the new X7 is slated to begin around September 2027 at BMW’s Spartanburg plant in the United States, continuing its role as the main manufacturing site for this flagship SUV.
Source: autoevolution.com