Spy shots of the 2023 BMW X7: a major design update for the big crossover

The BMW X7 may seem like it's just arrived, but the flagship crossover is already due for a major facelift, as evidenced by the recent sighting of a camouflaged prototype.

The facelift will be done as a mid-cycle refresh and should be introduced in 2022 as a 2023 model, following BMW tradition.

This is also when BMW will unveil the next-generation 7 Series, and the X7 facelift will help align the crossover's styling with the more radical look of the upcoming 7 Series. Yes, BMW is finally going to revamp its styling under the guidance of Domagoi Duke, who took the helm of design in 2017. The first BMW to be fully influenced by the Bugatti Veyron designer is the latest 4 Series.

The face of the X7 will be completely revised thanks to what appears to be split headlights and a new grille. The main headlight units will be positioned lower and should look more sinister and brooding.

The rear changes do not appear to be as dramatic. The lower fascia and exhaust tips will have new designs, and the taillights will be slightly redesigned.

The interior could also be updated with technology designed for the upcoming 7 Series.

It is not clear what BMW's plans are for the powertrains; the X7 currently has inline-6 and V-8 options, with the Alpina model getting a high-performance V-8. A plug-in hybrid option is likely, but it remains to be seen if a battery-electric X7 is planned; we do know that the X7's CLAR platform is capable of accommodating an electric powertrain and will be used in the next 7 Series. In fact, prototypes of an electric 7 Series have already been tested.

The X7 is produced exclusively at BMW's plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and this will also be the case for the improved version; a new X8 (or XM) crossover, closely related to the X7, will also be introduced and will be produced at the same plant.