The new headlights will cause as much controversy as the grille.
People are starting to get used to it (or is that just me?). BMW may be making another major cosmetic change to the front grille. Previously seen on X8 prototypes, it looks the smaller-but-still-huge X7 is in for a new headlight layout. Although the camouflage used to conceal the Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) changes was extensive, we can get an idea of what is going on.
The main headlights will likely be lower than the current X7, where they are situated directly below the hood. The X8 test cars showed a thin LED strip for daytime running lights. BMW may be considering stacking headlights on its two largest SUVs.
Already, we can see the controversy this layout could cause. Some will complain that the X7 looks just like a Hyundai Santa F or any other vehicle with lights above each other. This is the case if BMW will actually be following this route for the SUV’s midcycle update. We aren’t sure. These placeholders are the only alternative I can think of, which they do seem to be.
Moreover, BMW would not place the temporary lights in a lower spot than usual if the final X7 will keep the headlights in the same position as before. To make a front bumper that fits those lights would be a waste of money, even if it was just to prototype the car. The LCI may indeed include stacked headlights, or another unusual setup.
The updated X7 will retain its large grille, but it won’t adopt the new design of the M3, M4, or iX. We don’t expect the rear end to get the same camouflage treatment as the M50i prototype.
The X7 has been around for approximately two years. We won’t see the revised model until 2021, as it is unlikely that it will be released anytime soon.