Polarising 2029 BMW 4x4 SUV imagined

Earlier this week we ran a render of Audi’s upcoming ladder-frame G-Class rival, and now it’s BMW’s turn. Understood to be being developed under the ‘G74’ chassis code, the Bavarian brand’s first dedicated 4x4 could end up being one of its most polarising models to date if it looks anything like these unofficial renders out of Europe. 

Mocked up by popular automotive creator kelsonik, the boxy Beemer will certainly be an acquired taste if it looks anything like these renders, pairing a square body with a Neue Klasse-inspired nose. 

Unlike the G-Class and upcoming Audi 4x4, the ‘G74’ is understood to be underpinned by a monocoque platform – like a Range Rover – as opposed to an old-school ladder-frame, specifically a heavy-duty version of the existing Cluster Architecture (X5/X6, X7, XM). 

The renders showcase promising off-road angles and a relatively short wheelbase – for the segment – that bodes well for outright capability, though it’s more likely the finished product will have a similar wheelbase to an X7 or XM (meaning over three metres). 

Attaching the spare wheel to the tailgate is an obvious nod to, or perhaps even a dig at, the G-Class, while internal combustion and plug-in hybrid powertrains have both reportedly been earmarked. 

BMW hasn’t provided an official timeline for ‘Project Rugged’ but it’s thought executives are eyeing a release before the end of the decade, meaning we’ll likely see Audi’s new halo off-roader first. 

The more important question however is which one will be the better answer to the G-Class and Range Rover, though we wouldn’t be surprised if they prove quite different and ultimately target one of the current benchmarks each: ladder-frame vs ladder-frame, monocoque vs monocoque. 

Digital images: kelsonik renders

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