BMW Concept X7 iPerformance previews next-gen infotainment system

With the unveiling of the BMW Concept X7 iPerformance at the Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW says it is not only pulling back the covers on a new model concept for the luxury segment, but also introducing a whole new take on luxury for the German premium brand.

The six-seat flagship SUV concept brings the next-generation infotainment system with a focus on connectivity, while under the sheet metal the concept stays true to its iPerformance badge with new BMW eDrive technology allied with a turbo petrol engine that promise exceptional plug-in hybrid efficiency

Inside, the almost production ready dashboard show us shows us what to expect in future BMWs. The 12.3-inch instrument cluster screen and central touchscreen information display are sited at close quarters to one another. The effect is of one unbroken display. A new operating concept allows interactive use of the two displays. Below them, in the centre stack and centre console, the grouping of functions within the clean and tautly chiselled surfaces underscores the minimalist approach.

Second-row passengers enjoy personalised infotainment comfort courtesy of the rear-seat entertainment system’s touchscreen monitors. Here, the Concept X7 iPerformance showcases the BMW Group’s vision of seamless integrating the customer’s digital world into the car via BMW Connected. For example, passengers here have access to highly personalised, digital services such as their choice of infotainment or office content. And content can be shared with others on board. For instance, they can send a track to the car’s music system by touch gesture, forward an interesting article to the next-door display for the person sitting alongside them to read or transfer an address from their email directly to the car’s navigation system. Interactive LED choreography via the doors and instrument panel traces the communication flow between the rear screens and the display at the front of the cabin.

Sporting one of the largest kidney grille yet we’ve seen on a BMW, the flagship SUV certainly looks bold. The grille is made to look even larger by the pair of slender headlights with Munich’s latest daytime running light signature.

At the other end, the equally slender LED taillights is paired with vertical L-shaped vents on the bumper, echoing those seen in recent concepts such as the Z4 and 8 Series Concept.

The BMW Concept X7 iPerformance previews the upcoming X7 flagship SUV which will enter production in 2019.