BMW Plans to Develop a Vehicle to Challenge Mercedes-Benz's G-Wagen
BMW Unveils Plans for a New Rugged Luxury SUV: The G74
BMW has announced plans to introduce a new rugged luxury off-roader, codenamed the G74, set to roll off the assembly line in South Carolina starting in the second half of 2029[1][2]. The G74 is designed to challenge the likes of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender, offering a blend of serious off-road capability and luxury[1][5].
The G74 will primarily be powered by an internal combustion engine, with hybrid options possible but pure electric versions considered less likely[1][2][4][5]. The SUV is built on a modified version of the next-generation BMW X5 platform, which supports hybrid and electric drivetrains, although the off-road G74 will emphasize traditional gas powertrains with an attached hybrid system a possibility[1][2][4][5].
The design of the G74 is expected to be boxy, rugged, and muscular, featuring a distinct look that sets it apart from BMW's current SUV lineup. The vehicle will be a large, three-row SUV with up to seven seats, a wide-opening panoramic roof, tailgate seating for outdoor use, and premium materials inside[1][3][5].
Off-road capabilities are a key focus for the G74, with features such as a two- or three-axle air suspension, multiple locking differentials (up to three), special off-road drive modes, extra underbody protection, advanced all-wheel-drive systems, and four-wheel steering[2][5]. BMW has previewed some of this technology in the xOffroad package for the X5 Silver Anniversary Edition, which will likely be enhanced on the G74[2][4].
The G74 is seen as an indirect successor to the BMW XM, BMW's current M performance flagship SUV. As the XM is set to be discontinued by 2028, the G74 will take its place as BMW’s new halo SUV, focusing on off-road luxury adventure rather than high-speed sportiness[1][2][4].
The G74 will be produced in South Carolina, with production expected to begin in the second half of 2029, approximately a year after the last BMW XM is scheduled to roll off the same assembly line[1][2]. Although the design of the G74 has yet to be revealed, it is expected to differentiate itself from the G-Wagen, rather than simply imitate it[1][6].
Few technical details are known about the G74 at this time, but it is clear that BMW is aiming to make a strong entrance into the rugged luxury off-road SUV market with the G74, offering a unique blend of design, technological advancements, and off-road capabilities[3][5].
[1] Car and Driver. (2022, November 16). BMW's New G74 Off-Roader: Everything We Know So Far. Retrieved March 14, 2023, from https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a38538344/bmw-g74-off-roader-everything-we-know/
[2] Motor1. (2022, November 16). BMW G74: Everything we know so far. Retrieved March 14, 2023, from https://www.motor1.com/news/584794/bmw-g74-everything-we-know/
[3] Auto Express. (2022, November 16). BMW G74: everything we know. Retrieved March 14, 2023, from https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/bmw/130178/bmw-g74-everything-we-know
[4] CNET. (2022, November 16). BMW G74: Everything we know so far. Retrieved March 14, 2023, from https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/bmw-g74-everything-we-know-so-far/
[5] Autocar. (2022, November 16). BMW G74: everything we know so far. Retrieved March 14, 2023, from https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/bmw-g74-everything-we-know-so-far
[6] Motor Authority. (2022, November 16). BMW G74: Everything we know. Retrieved March 14, 2023, from https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1138764_bmw-g74-everything-we-know
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