BMW aims off-road challenge at Land Rover Defender with robust seven-seat sports utility vehicle
BMW's New Off-Roader, the G74, Aims to Take on the Mercedes G-Class and Land Rover Defender
The automotive world is abuzz with anticipation for BMW's upcoming off-roader, codenamed G74. This full-size SUV, scheduled for production at BMW's Spartanburg plant in the US from 2029, is set to rival the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender [2][3][4].
Key Features and Specifications
The G74 will boast a bold, aggressive, and rugged design. With a raised body and longer suspension travel, it will optimize approach, departure, and breakover angles for off-road driving. The SUV will incorporate BMW’s Neue Klasse design language with traditional tough aesthetics [3][4].
Mechanically, the G74 will boast advanced off-road hardware such as a locking rear differential (possibly three locking diffs), off-road-specific drive modes, enhanced underbody protection, all-terrain tires, air suspension with a wide travel range, and four-wheel steering for better agility and control on rough terrains [2][3][5].
Under the hood, the G74 is expected to prioritize internal combustion engines, likely petrol-based with the possibility of mild hybrid assistance. A fully electric version is not planned, with BMW focusing instead on petrol and potential hybrid powertrains [2][4][5].
Inside, the G74 will accommodate up to seven passengers across three rows, offering a spacious and luxurious cabin with premium materials and the latest infotainment and comfort technologies [3].
A Return to Off-Roading Roots
The G74 marks BMW's return to the off-road market, a departure from their usual focus on luxury and performance. This move is part of a push by BMW to tap into the luxury off-road market currently dominated by the Defender and G-Class [6].
A New Era for BMW's Off-Road Lineup
The G74 is expected to be BMW's first model conceived for serious off-roading since 1937. While the X8 moniker might be used for a coupe-style variant of the G74, the new BMW G74 is expected to offer seating for up to seven in three rows [1].
The luxurious cabin of the G74 is said to feature a higher level of material quality and equipment than today's range-topping SUVs. The chassis is expected to borrow elements from the X5 and X7, including long-travel air suspension, up to three locking differentials, advanced four-wheel drive, and four-wheel steering [2].
While an electric version of the G74 might also be in the works, this isn't yet confirmed [3]. The G74 will be produced alongside the X5, X6, and X7 at BMW's Spartanburg plant in the US from 2029, with a market launch expected around the same time.
In summary, the BMW G74 promises to be BMW’s first true hardcore off-roader in decades, designed to blend serious off-road capability with luxury and technology and intended to challenge established models like the Mercedes G-Class and Land Rover Defender. A fully electric variant is reportedly not planned, with BMW focusing instead on petrol and potential hybrid powertrains [2][4][5].
[1] Car and Driver [2] Autocar [3] Motor Authority [4] Top Gear [5] CNET [6] BMW Blog
The forthcoming BMW G74, designed for off-road dominance, is anticipated to significantly impact the automotive industry by taking on the Mercedes G-Class and Land Rover Defender in the finance sector. With its focus on internal combustion engines and potential hybrid powertrains, the G74 aims to redefine the luxury off-road market in transportation, marking BMW's return to its off-roading roots and challenging established models.
