Earlier at present, Automotive Information confirmed what we’ve been hinting at since 2024: BMW is growing an all-new SUV, internally codenamed G74 and carrying the working title “Rugged.” Our BMW sources say the Rugged will mark the model’s entry into an all-new phase. Removed from being a dressed-up G65 X5, it’s a ground-up mannequin with a definite mission and engineering method.
From Competitor Checks to Actuality: How the Rugged Was Conceived
The Rugged might be constructed at BMW’s Spartanburg, South Carolina plant, however that wasn’t all the time the plan. Again in 2022 and 2023, BMW executives and engineers had been quietly evaluating competitor merchandise, together with the Rivian R1T, which earned excessive reward throughout the firm. These checks planted the seed for a extra adventurous, off-road-capable BMW — one positioned to compete straight with premium life-style SUVs and vehicles.
The unique idea for the BMW Rugged was a really completely different machine. It was conceived as a purely electrical mannequin constructed on the Neue Klasse NA5 iX3 platform, subsequently, it will needed to be constructed both in Debrecen, Hungary or San Luis Potosi, Mexico. In accordance with insiders, a full-scale design mannequin was allegedly created, though it’s unclear whether or not it graduated to a practical prototype. As market situations started to shift and EV demand cooled, BMW management determined to rethink the method. The NA5-based mission was shelved in favor of a brand new plan: maintain the Rugged identify, however transfer the car to the CLAR structure underneath the G74 codename. This modification opened the door to a number of drivetrains, together with plug-in hybrid and totally electrical variations.
CLAR Platform Brings Hybrid and EV Flexibility
The platform change additionally means the Rugged will share powertrain expertise with the upcoming G65 X5. That factors to the highest electrical model delivering efficiency much like the iX5 M70’s rumored 610+ horsepower, whereas the plug-in hybrid may provide between 500 and 550 horsepower. The EV variant will use BMW’s next-generation Gen6 battery and motor expertise, focusing on no less than 700 kilometers of vary on the WLTP cycle, although last figures are nonetheless to be confirmed.
Inside to Showcase Neue Klasse Design Language
Dimension and functionality might be central to the Rugged’s attraction. Sources say will probably be a big SUV with three-row seating, a wide-opening panoramic roof, and even tailgate seating aimed toward outside fans, taking cues from rivals within the phase. Inside, the design and expertise will comply with BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse method, which is able to first be seen within the G65 X5 due subsequent yr.
Launch Scheduled for 2029 With A number of Drivetrains
In accordance with each our reporting and Automotive Information, the BMW Rugged is scheduled to launch in 2029. That timeline offers BMW ample alternative to refine the product, adapt to shifting market situations, and incorporate the newest hybrid and EV developments into what might be its most off-road-oriented mainstream mannequin but. Removed from a harder X5, the G74 Rugged represents BMW’s first severe try to interrupt into the journey SUV house — a transfer that might redefine the model’s picture in one of the attention-grabbing premium segments, no less than in our opinion.
[Initial report by AutoNews]
