This article first appeared in The Edge Financial Daily on July 12, 2019

KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Malaysia yesterday unveiled its first-ever BMW X7, a luxury-class sports activity vehicle (SAV) that is the latest and largest in the BMW X range, which the group said is a new icon that exemplifies the brand’s new definition of progressive luxury.

In a statement, the group said the new luxury SAV marks the first time the exclusive ambience of the BMW 7 Series sedan is emulated in a BMW X model, and represents the next stage in the premium automaker’s ongoing model offensive in the luxury segment.

The BMW X7’s increased presence in the class and systematic expansion of the BMW X model portfolio are among the key areas BMW Group has identified to ensure sustained growth in the world’s car markets in the future, it said.

“The BMW X models are some of the most recognised models of the BMW portfolio with over five million units delivered worldwide since its introduction. In Malaysia, BMW X vehicles accounted for more than 5,000 units of BMW vehicles delivered nationwide in 2018. Designed for game-changing innovations, benchmarking comfort and contemporary design with modern dynamics, the first-ever BMW X7 displays progressive flair in the current family of luxury BMW vehicles,” said BMW Malaysia head of corporate communications Sashi Ambi.

The new SAV comes in the BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence variant, with seven colour choices — Mineral White, Black Sapphire, Artic Grey, Sophisto Grey, Phytonic Blue, Terra Brown and Vermont Bronze.

Meanwhile, the group has also introduced its brand new BMW 7 Series, an addition to the premium automaker’s portfolio of luxury sedans in Malaysia, in the form of BMW 740Le xDrive in the Pure Excellence variant.

Sashi said the luxury sedan will be locally assembled, in line with BMW Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to growing its investments in Malaysia, which underlines the country’s role as the hub for the BMW Group in Southeast Asia.

Available at all authorised BMW dealerships nationwide from September, the new SAV retails at RM888,800, on-the-road, without insurance, while the new BMW 7 Series will be priced at RM594,800. Both models come with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, with free scheduled services, and a two-year tyre warranty.