Will the 2023 BMW X7 (facelift) get a plug-in hybrid option? [Update]

Update: ‘Exterior’ section updated with the latest leaked image.

The X7, BMW’s largest SUV turned three years old in October 2021, and BMW is preparing the LCI or ‘facelift’ in common language. Besides the optical changes, the 2023 BMW X7 could come with a greater level of eco-friendliness with plug-in hybrid technology, in line with the company’s new intensified electrification strategy for achieving the goal of a carbon-neutral product line-up.

European media expects a BMW X7 Plug In Hybrid

Since summer last year, the BMW X7 is available with 48-volt mild-hybrid tech in the xDrive40i gasoline and xDrive40d diesel variants. BimmerPost forum member ynguldyn, who has a good track record of getting accurate insider scoops about future BMW models, has said that the X7 line-up will remain unchanged with the facelift. However, the 48-volt mild-hybrid system will become a standard fitment across the X7 range with the mid-cycle refresh.

To the contrary, Autocar and Auto Express expect the X7 to step up and gain a new variant with plug-in hybrid tech from the X5 xDrive45e. The X7 PHEV could be a SULEV (super ultra-low emissions vehicle) rated model with the same 389 hp system that comprises a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six gasoline engine and an electric motor. The engine and motor would deliver power to a standard 8-speed automatic transmission.

BMW Group Investor presentation from November 2020 confirms 5 new PHEVs arriving by 2023, but is one of them the X7? Image: BMW Group

In the X5 xDrive45e, the plug-in hybrid powertrain develops 389 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. A 20.9 kWh (net)/24.0 kWh (gross) lithium-ion battery pack is located under the floor of the SUV powers the motor, and it provides a pure electric range of 30 miles (EPA). With a Level 2 charger, it takes 4-5.3 hours to juice up the battery pack.

Bigger battery

According Autocar, BMW had said that an X7 hybrid would have to offer an EV mode range of at least 80 km (50 miles), which would necessitate a much bigger battery to compensate for the added weight over the X5. The company would ensure that the X7 PHEV is eligible for the subsidy the Chinese government offers on new energy vehicles that deliver a pure electric range of 80 km (50 miles) or more.

Exterior

The 2022 BMW X7 adopts the new split-type design for the headlamps, but the grille size appears unchanged. Image: Wilco Blok/Instagram

Instagram user Wilco Blok has shared an image of (what looks like) the upcoming X7 sans camouflage on March 23, 2022. The front end appears rather complex with the split headlamp design; the LED DRL signature looks incredibly sleek, and the headlamp beams are positioned in a rectangular housing below. There are three air inlets; two vertical curtains on the sides of the front bumper and a lower air dam under the reasonably large kidney grille.

The SUV also seems to run on massive 22-inch rims. BMW enthusiasts may prefer the uncluttered pre-facelift nose over this new, seemingly complex design. However, design being a subjective matter, we’re curious to see how the audience reacts to the new X7 when it gets officially revealed.

BMW doesn’t normally have major design changes during mid-cycle updates, but spy media prove that it will make an exception in the X7’s case, to align it with the incoming XM and 7 Series. Image Source: Instagram/carspots.vw

For a new look on the sides, expect the 2023 X7’s equipment list to include new alloy wheel designs in 20-, 21-, and 22-inch sizes. Earlier spy shots don’t reveal any major changes at the rear but we expect the final design to include modifications to the tail lamps and bumper. Other spy pictures have indicated that the tail lamps will not repeat the current model’s L-shape light guide, drawn from the second-gen 7 Series’ tail lamps. The new model’s tail lamps will carry a C-shape signature instead, laying more emphasis on the full-size SUV’s wide stance.

Video Source: YouTube/CarSpyMedia

Interior

The interior design and layout would also see at least one significant change in the X7 with the mid-life update. Spy pictures reveal that BMW designers have worked on a new cockpit design.

The 2023 BMW X7 will likely borrow the iX’s one-piece layout for its cockpit screens (pictured) with the mid-cycle update. Image Source: BMW Group

Two rectangular screens – a fully digital instrument cluster and a control display – would sit side-by-side on a single panel as if they were one ultra-wide screen. They should measure at least 12.3 inches diagonally, and the central screen could be bigger – 14.9 inches. The new look for the cockpit would come from the BMW iX, and there’s a strong chance that the new instrument cluster and control display would run on the new BMW Operating System 8 that has completely new graphics and provides a whole new experience.

Release Date

According to BimmerPost forum member ynguldyn’s intel, the new BMW X7 will debut in August 2022. This means that its U.S. launch could take place this fall. The current X7 costs USD 74,900 onwards, and so, the prices of the 2023 X7 could start at around USD 76,000.

The rumored X7 PHEV, if launched, may cost over USD 80,000 and compete with the Range Rover P440e or Range Rover P510e. It could bring positive changes to the volume and bottomline of the BMW Group’s electrified vehicle sales in the U.S. and China. Globally, the company’s xEV sales have grown remarkably, from 32,732 units in FY2014 to 192,646 units by FY2020. In 2021, BMW Group’s electrified vehicle sales grew 70.4% year-over-year to 328,316 units (2020: 96,741 units).

2023 BMW X7 FAQs

What is the 2023 BMW X7 release date?

BMW should launch the restyled X7 later this year, with a fresh new look and revamped dashboard.

What will be the BMW X7 PHEV price?

The BMW X7 PHEV could cost around USD 80,000 when it comes available. Note that BMW has not confirmed this variant.

Which models will the BMW X7 PHEV compete with?

The BMW X7 PHEV will primarily rival the Range Rover P440e or Range Rover P510e.

Featured Image Source: Instagram/Wilco Blok

Keyword: Will the 2023 BMW X7 (facelift) get a plug-in hybrid option? [Update]