While BMW hasn’t confirmed any plans for an X7M yet,
Alpina is already working on a hotter version for Bavaria’s biggest SUV. It’s
likely called Alpina XD7 and Carscoops photographers spotted it on the Nordschleife
during a lively test session earlier this week. Well, the camouflaged X7 carried “OAL” license plates.
Those are from the Ostallgäu district of Bavaria where Alpina has its
headquarters.
That also explains why the SUV features a full body
wrap despite the fact that BMW has already unveiled the X7. However, there
aren’t many visual differences compared to the standard model. The air intakes
in the front bumper seem to be the only new parts for now. Alpina uses them to
feed the intercoolers with fresh air, since the XD7 will definitely feature a
powerful engine.
While BMW’s X7 M50d produces 400 PS and 760
Nm of torque, Alpina will add at least 50 more horses. That’s a
must if it wants the big SUV to be quicker than the standard M50d. The latter
covers the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 5.4 seconds.
Expect Alpina to make some suspension tweaks as well
to go along with the souped-up engine. The photos show the XD7 prototype leans
in corners less than you would expect from a 2.3-tonne SUV.
As usual, Alpina will put its mark on the X7 with
its typical multi-spoke wheels, sharper bumpers, and quad exhaust pipes.
Chances are the interior will get a more luxurious treatment as well. All these
elements will arrive later in the development process.
Alpina should finish tweaking the X7 M50d sometime
next year, just in time for a Frankfurt Motor Show world debut in September
2019.
