BMW is set to introduce a new off-road SUV designed to rival the iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen. According to Automotive News, the model, codenamed G74, is slated for production in 2029 and will be manufactured at the company’s facility in Spartanburg, South Carolina. While BMW has not officially confirmed the vehicle’s details, it is expected to serve as a flagship model rather than a volume seller, similar to the current XM SUV.
The G74 will enter a competitive market, taking on established models such as the Land Rover Defender, which has transitioned to a unibody construction, and the body-on-frame Ineos Grenadier. The Mercedes G-Wagen has long been a benchmark in this segment since its introduction in 1979. BMW’s move into this market highlights the potential for lucrative sales, especially given the high transaction prices associated with the G-Wagen.
The G74 is anticipated to replace the plug-in hybrid XM, with production of that model expected to conclude in November 2028. The specifics of the powertrain for the new SUV remain undisclosed. BMW has successfully transitioned to electric vehicles (EVs), achieving a record sales performance in Australia during 2024, where one-third of its vehicles sold were EVs.
Despite this success, BMW may have concerns following remarks from an anonymous Mercedes-Benz executive who criticized the electric G-Wagen, stating, “The car is sitting like lead at dealers; it’s a complete flop,” as reported by Handelsblatt. This may influence BMW’s strategy regarding the G74, potentially steering the company towards hybrid technology similar to that found in the XM.
BMW has established itself in the high-performance SUV market but lacks the off-road heritage that Mercedes-Benz brings to the table. The new G74 will utilize the chassis of the BMW X5, which provides a promising foundation for off-road capabilities. The dimensions of the G74 are expected to be comparable to the G-Wagen, which measures 4,873 mm in length, 1,984 mm in width, and 1,979 mm in height, with a ground clearance of 282 mm. This size could enhance its off-road performance compared to the larger BMW X7.
Over the years, BMW has offered the X5 with an xOffroad package, featuring air suspension and a locking differential. However, the G74 aims to be more rugged and capable than its predecessors. As the automotive landscape evolves, this new model could redefine BMW’s presence in the off-road segment while challenging established players like Mercedes-Benz.
As the launch date approaches, more information regarding the G74’s features and capabilities is likely to emerge, providing insights into how BMW plans to position itself in this competitive market.
