As SUVs continue to boom in popularity, so too does interest in rugged, off-road–focused models. Many automakers have turned their everyday crossovers into more capable adventure vehicles—or launched entirely new models designed with off-road capability in mind. Now BMW is finally ready to join the trend, as the German automaker is reportedly developing a rival to the iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
Official details remain scarce, and the SUV isn’t expected to arrive until the end of the decade. Still, reports suggest BMW is already hard at work on the idea, with other luxury brands—like Audi and Genesis—also considering rugged SUVs of their own.
And it’s easy to see why. The G-Class remains hugely popular. Mercedes-Benz produced its 500,000th G-Class in April 2023 and its 600,000th example in 2024. Last year alone, sales hit 49,700 units, a new record for the venerable Geländewagen. The model has been on sale for nearly half a century and has faced little direct competition in the luxury off-road segment. That could soon change.
BMW has not officially confirmed its G-Class competitor, but a growing number of reports offer clues about what the company might be planning. Here’s everything we know so far.
What Will BMW Call It?
BMW X5 With Off-Road Package
Photo by: DW Burnett
BMW hasn’t revealed a name for its rumored off-roader. Internally, the project is reportedly known as G74, though that codename likely won’t appear on the final production vehicle.
If the SUV makes it to market, it will probably follow BMW’s existing naming strategy with an “X” prefix, like the BMW X5, BMW X6, and BMW X7. However, BMW could also adopt a different naming approach similar to the BMW XM.
The model is expected to serve as a halo SUV for the brand, potentially replacing the XM at the top of BMW’s lineup. Reports suggest the XM could end production around 2028.
What Platform Will It Use?
BMW X5 With Off-Road Package
Photo by: DW Burnett
The new SUV will reportedly ride on a modified version of the platform used by the next-generation BMW X5.
Current BMW X5 models use the CLAR (Cluster Architecture) platform, which also underpins several of BMW’s larger vehicles and SUVs—including the XM. The rumored G74 would likely use an adapted version of this architecture, heavily reinforced and upgraded to support serious off-road capability.
Because CLAR debuted more than a decade ago, BMW will likely continue evolving the platform before the new SUV launches. The current-generation X5 (G05) entered production in 2018, and its G65 successor—coming this year—should bring further updates that the off-road model could build upon.
What Will It Look Like?
BMW G-Class Rival Rendering By Motor1
Photo by: Theophilus Chin | Motor1
No prototypes or test vehicles have been spotted yet, so the SUV’s design is still a mystery. However, our renderings preview a boxier, more upright design than BMW’s current crossovers—something closer to the proportions of traditional off-roaders. It should have chunky all-terrain tires, better ground clearance, and protective cladding around the wheel arches.
The design would also incorporate elements from BMW’s Neue Klasse styling language, which emphasizes cleaner lines and modernized lighting signatures.
Inside, the SUV would adopt the minimalist interior layout of upcoming Neue Klasse models, such as the iX3 and i3 sedan. That likely means a large central infotainment display paired with a thinner panoramic display stretching along the base of the windshield. In the back, there’s likely going to be a third row. Some reports claim it may also get tailgate seating to echo the Rolls-Royce Cullinan.
What Will Power It?
Photo by: BMW
Powertrain details remain unknown, but the rugged SUV will likely have multiple options.
The current BMW XM uses a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 plug-in hybrid producing up to 738 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque in its most powerful form. A non-electrified version of that engine powers the BMW X5 M, where it produces 617 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque.
BMW has also said its current generation of combustion engines—even those used by Rolls-Royce—has been engineered to meet future emissions regulations. That means the company has several potential powertrains available.
One thing seems likely: some level of electrification, whether through mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid technology. A fully electric variant is also a distinct possibility.
Will There Be An M Variant?
A performance version seems very likely. In a recent interview, Frank van Meel, CEO of BMW M, suggested the company is open to the idea of an M-badged off-road vehicle. If the G74 moves forward, a high-performance M variant would be a natural addition.
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Source: Theophilus Chin | Motor1
How Much Will It Cost?
If BMW really wants to take on the G-Class, it won’t come cheap. The entry-level Mercedes-Benz G550 currently starts at around $155,000 in the United States, while the high-performance Mercedes-AMG G63 starts at around $199,000.
Given its expected positioning as a halo SUV—and as a potential successor to the XM—BMW’s off-roader will likely start north of $150,000, with a high-performance version potentially approaching $200,000.
When Will It Debut?
Reports suggest production could begin in the second half of 2029. That timeline would likely place the official debut sometime in late 2028 or early 2029, possibly preceded by a series of teasers and concept previews.
Production is expected to take place at BMW’s plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where the company already builds several of its SUVs, including the X5, X6, X7, and XM.
