The first-ever ix7, the full-size SUV which made its spy-shot debut recently, is expected to feature the Gen6 batteries and electric motors that are set to debut later this year in the new iX3.

Other details that have leaked out, despite the vehicle cloaked in camouflage, are interesting to say the least! For example, we are quick to ascertain that the quad exhaust system means we have an M Performance model on our hands. The profile also suggests that the vehicle will be larger than the current model, as the prototype features what appears to be a slightly bigger quarter glass, which suggests a more spacious cabin boasting additional leg room. Also, door handles are not where one would expect, mainly because the new X7 adopts the small winglets on the beltline as already seen on the next-gen X5. This minimalist setup was first applied to the Vision Neue Klasse X and the M8-based Skytop.

Up front, daytime running lights, which also double as turn signals, are mounted low on the front fascia next to the main beams. The DRLs feature an unusual design, with two separate, almost perpendicular bars. And while these are clearly temporary headlights, it is worth noting that early prototypes of the 7 Series G70 also didn't show their separate DRLs either.

A kidney grille is large and proportioned nicely. At production, it is expected that rear lights will extend onto its tailgate, which will also likely retain the split-opening design. At rear, the prototype is cleverly disguised with extra panels held by black rivets, and the rear pillars are also hidden under thicker cladding, which may mean the glass area at back is larger than it appears. Blue brake calipers and 22-inch wheels wrapped in Continental winter tires speak to the likelihood of an M Sport Package.

On top of its all-out luxury and 800 horsepower, the iX7 will also come equipped with xDrive, which translates into a dual-motor setup as standard.

We do know the iDrive 8.5 system is clearly gone, as there is no dual-screen setup protruding from the dashboard. Instead, this SUV will switch to iDriveX, and feature a large central display, perhaps measuring 17.9 inches.

Poised to sit at the top of BMW’s lineup, the iX7 will even top the V8-powered X7 M60, although not be a flagship.

And here’s why! BMW’s ALPINA, which it acquired a few years back, is developing its own spin on the iX7, complete with codename “G69” and with the range-topping model featuring significant changes, more so than just differing badges and subtle design tweaks. It may be called the iX7 100 xDrive.

For the lover of the V8, ALPINA delivers, with the x7 60 xDrive likely using the twin-turbo 4.4-liter S68 engine, while an entry-level X7 40 xDrive with inline-six is also being offered.

But back to the iX7! For those ready to make that switch to the electric, they will realize a vehicle equipped with cylindrical battery cells, with BMW claiming a 20 percent boost in energy density compared to current prismatic cells and a 30 percent increase in both charging speed and driving range.

In addition, these newly developed motors are smaller, lighter and more rigid, with engineers tweaking and re-working oil and water-cooling systems and implementing 800V architecture for faster charging. As a result, energy losses will be reduced by 40 percent, and production costs by 20 percent.

What we also know is that the iX7 won’t be the first CLAR-based EV with Neue Klasse Tech. That is reserved for the iX5, planned to launch next year, with the iX7 on tap to arrive the second half of 2027. And while the X7 will retain all eight cylinders in the United States, that may not be the case in Europe due to stricter emissions regulations that may force the automaker to limit the model to six-cylinder engines.

While not much is revealed at this point, we do know that the next-gen X7 is about two years away, with the G67 expected to enter series production in Spartanburg, S.C. in August, 2027, making it a 2028MY in the United States.

With power, design tweaks and a spacious cabin, there is much to anticipate with the M70. Take a moment to explore what we know so far, and get the exclusive!