Rumors of a possible new V8 engine have been circulating for years, but only today the official launch of the “S68”. Instead of premiering next week on the 7 Series G70, BMW has chosen the X7 Facelift to lead the way. It will not be installed in the full-fat M version of the luxury SUV, but will be replaced by a new X7 M60i instead of the M50i.
An evolution that adopts twin-turbo 4.4-liter light-hybrid technology. The V8 has more than electrification because it also upgrades turbocharging with a blow-off valve. BMW engineers have developed a new oil pump and a light oil sump to enhance the efficiency of the powertrain. It is noteworthy that the eight-cylinder mill uses bank-symmetrical turbos, a cross-bank exhaust manifold and external engine oil cooling – all for advanced thermodynamics.
The small electric motor is integrated into an eight-speed steptronic sport gearbox and brings the best of both worlds. It not only enhances efficiency, it also adds some performance. BMW noted that the start / stop function begins as well as the comfort of being lazy and on the coast is somewhat improved. Speaking of which, the X7 M60i will stay off the coast with the combustion engine off while in ECO PRO mode.
Despite the upgrade from the M50i to the M60i suffix, if we talk strictly about ICE, the M Performance version of the X7 soldiers facelifted with the same power. In fact, it has 5,500 rpm to 523 hp (390 kW) and 1,800 rpm to 553 lb-ft (750 Nm). The electric motor delivers an additional 12 hp (9 kW) and 147 lb-ft (200 Nm)
The 2023 BMW X7 M60i takes 4.7 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km / h) from stagnation. Alternatively, if you prefer a 0 to 60 mph (96 km / h) rating, it takes 4.5 seconds. The flat-out, full-size SUV will reach 155 mph (250 km / h) electronically. As you would expect from an M performance model, it gets a sports exhaust system from the factory.
The X7 M60i is more than just the new S68 engine
Outside of its redesigned V8, the M60i gets rear-wheel steering and active roll stability as standard equipment. Also, there are rigid top mounts on the front including basepack tuning for dampers and springs. BMW says it has sharpened the steering and will fit a 22-inch wheel or an optional 23-inch set. The latter comes with the largest wheels installed from the factory and 275/35 front and 315/30 rear tires.
Outside the box, the M60i illuminated the Kidney and the Arrow-optimized M Mirror. To sweeten the pot, BMW offers exclusively M Marina Blue Bay metallic paint for this version with over 40 distinct colors. The imposing front grille is decorated with matte black bars and has a high-gloss surface and a bold “M” logo.
Upon entering, you can immediately tell by the letter of the name on the illuminated door seals that it is M60i. Of course, BMW is installing lots of M-branded goodies wherever you look, even the ambient lighting and Alcantara headliner M-specific. As standard, the X7 family’s top dog gets extended merino leather upholstery. At extra cost, carbon fiber can be added to the retro BMW M 50 Years symbol.
Naturally, the whole Shebang comes at a steep price because the 2023 BMW X7 M60i starts at $ 103,100 plus $ 995 destination. That would make it 3,300 more expensive than a replacement M50i. The Spartanburg-built SUV will go on sale in the United States in the third quarter of the year and will be available in Germany from August.
Source: BMW