The BMW X7 isn't going to make a great track car, but engineers are still testing it at the famous Nurburgring circuit in West Germany. The reason? This could be an M Performance model.
Despite the deafening sound of tires being tortured by the 2.3-ton SUV, we can still make out the 4.4-liter V8 engine. While there won't be an X7 M (we hope!), it's still possible to get an X7 M50i.
Since even the M550i sedan is due for a power bump, we can only presume that the most powerful X7 version will have the same 530 HP and 750 Nm of torque as the 8 Series Coupe. Now that's a lot of damage!
It's in BMW's best interest for its customers to specify as many options as possible. That's why the M50i should be available with a rear diff, air suspension, and clever anti-roll bars. Of course, the M50i will also sit a little lower on big wheels, but we don't expect it to become uncomfortable.
Other engines will be available as well, and two of them have already been confirmed. There's the X7 M50d, presumably fitted with the familiar 3-liter quad-turbo making 400 HP and most likely aimed squarely at the European market. The least powerful version is said to be the xDrive40i, equipped with the same engine as the new X5.
With a wheelbase measuring 3.01 meters (118.5 inches) and a length of 5.01 meters (197.2 inches), the X7 is one of the largest BMWs ever to take to the Nurburgring. It's also one of the heaviest at 2.3 tons, though the 7 Series is no slouch in either case.
Handling isn't its top priority, but the SUV takes corners with ease and seems quite fast while barreling down the straights. Will Mercedes retaliate with GLS Nurburgring tests? Stay tuned to our spyshots section to find out.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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