BMW rules out ute but is studying LandCruiser fighter

BMW could be secretly plotting to introduce a new rugged 4x4 off-road SUV to rival the likes of the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series and Land Rover Defender as demand expands from the US and Australia to other global markets.

Sadly, for those still waiting for a luxury dual-cab 4x4 ute based on the 2019 BMW X7 pick-up concept, it’s unlikely to ever happen, according to BMW’s senior vice-president for brand and product management, Bernd Koerber.

Speaking to BMWBlog, Koerber echoed earlier comments by the car-maker’s design boss Adrian van Hooydonk by ruling out any production version.

“I think a?pick-up truck?is beyond the brand,” he said.

“In principle, I would say for a brand like BMW to differentiate, to make cars that are dream cars that really bring out the essence of BMW, we need niche models.”

Instead of developing a ute, Korber hinted that BMW might push ahead and develop a rugged SUV that is more in line with its brand values.

Fuelling the drive to develop a more capable 4x4 is the growing popularity of SUVs like the LandCruiser and Defender in markets where BMW already operates.

Koerber: “Rugged is an interesting trend because it has moved from the US, South Africa and Australia phenomenon into a global phenomenon.”

It’s not known if BMW has plans to push ahead and build a new dedicated rugged off-roader or if the German brand will develop a more rugged take on existing vehicles like the BMW X3 or X5.

If it favours the latter, BMW could introduce an Audi Allroad-inspired sub-brand that introduces a high-lift suspension kit, extra plastic cladding, underbody protection and new hardware like a front or rear locking differential.

Related: Flagship BMW X7 ute makes debut

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