BMW beefs up its X5 to compete with the G-Wagon

The Bavarian automaker is working on a new SUV internally called the G74 that’s meant to challenge the iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Automotive News reports quoting its own sources. It seems to be based on a heavily modified X5 platform.

Even so, the report sounds unusual. The G-class is a serious body-on-frame off-roader with a solid beam axle at the rear end and three differential locks (interaxle + one per axle). The BMW X5 is a unibody crossover utility vehicle with independent suspension.

The report fails to mention any technicalities, but describes the vehicle as “boxy” and “off-road-prepped”, whatever that means. Looking at the company’s recent offerings, it could be a hybrid.

It’s worth noting that the latest X5 utilizes a highly flexible architecture that allows for the use of part-electric, full-electric and even hydrogen powertrains. The latter is made possible thanks to the company’s ongoing cooperation with Toyota, which has been researching the fuel cell technology for decades.

As to when this alleged G-Class rival may reach the market, the sources say 2028 is likely.