Since seven crossovers clearly isn’t enough, BMW is expanding their lineup with the electric iX and the range-topping X8 / X8 M. The latter was recently spotted undergoing testing as it’s gearing up to battle luxury SUVs like Audi’s Q8 but also, the Bentley Bentayga. Unfortunately, it’s not much of a looker at this point but hopefully that will change once the camouflage comes off. While that remains to be seen, the model will apparently follow in the footsteps of the redesigned 7-Series as it features a massive grille which is flanked by mid-mounted headlights. We can also see a wide lower intake and what appears to be vertical air curtains at the outside edges.
Moving further back, the crossover has a long hood and a rakish windscreen that flows into a sloping roof. The model also features pronounced wheel arches, an upward sweeping beltline and a relatively compact greenhouse. Continuing out back, the crossover has an angular rear window and an upright liftgate. More interestingly, we can see a distinctive stacked four-tailpipe exhaust system. We’re not a huge fan of the layout, but it’s possible the stacked design was adopted due to packaging concerns with the electrified powertrain.
BMW has been tight-lipped about the model, but its expected to be offered with four- and five-person seating configurations. Spy photographers haven’t managed to get a good look inside, but the crossover could adopt the company’s new Curved Display which consists of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment system running Operating System 8.
Powertrains remain unconfirmed, but rumors have suggested there will be at least three different options including two plug-in hybrid variants. One of them could have a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, an electric motor and a roughly 24 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. In the X5 xDrive45e, this enables the model to produce a combined output of 389 hp and 600 Nm of torque. Of course, the hottest rumor is about an X8 M / XM with a plug-in hybrid powertrain that features a twin-turbo V8 engine. Some reports have suggested it could produce around 750 hp which, if true, would make the 591 hp Audi RS Q8 look modest by comparison.
