BMW might be about to throw its hat into the hardcore 4×4 ring. 

According to a report from Automotive News, the German marque is developing an all-new SUV designed to rival off-road heavyweights such as the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Land Rover Defender and Lexus GX. The project, known internally as “G74”, is tipped to debut towards the end of 2029 and will be built at BMW’s Spartanburg facility in South Carolina, USA.

Industry insiders quoted by Automotive News suggest the G74 will be based on a heavily modified version of the next-generation X5’s underpinnings. While the X5 has always been more about on-road dynamics and long-distance touring comfort, this off-road derivative is expected to bring substantial engineering changes – think beefier suspension, improved wheel articulation, greater ground clearance and tougher driveline component.

Interestingly, the G74 may be aimed not just at the ultra-luxury G-Class crowd, but also at more practical premium off-roaders like the Lexus GX. If the platform adaptations lean towards the mid-size category, BMW could find itself bridging a gap between the bulky G-Class and the slightly leaner Defender.

BMW has dabbled in the off-road scene before, albeit rarely. The brand once campaigned a first-generation X3 in rally raid events, and in 2024 showcased a current X3 M50 kitted out for the Rebelle Rally in the US. That one-off featured skid plates, all-terrain tyres, auxiliary lights, roof storage, and protective body film.

As for the G74’s powertrain, Automotive News reports that while the next-gen X5 will offer both petrol and fully electric options, the off-road version is expected to favour internal combustion – potentially with hybrid assistance. 

Given the current X5 for Australia is already sourced from the Spartanburg plant, a local release for the G74 seems plausible, even with the complexities of right-hand-drive production. Pricing could push into Defender V8 and G-Class money depending on spec and capability.

If Automotive News’s report proves accurate, the G74 could be the first BMW engineered from the outset for serious off-road work, not just occasional gravel-road touring.

For a brand better known for fast saloons and performance crossovers, it would be a bold pivot – and potentially the start of a new chapter in BMW’s history.

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