BMW G74 Rendered: Neue Klasse Rugged SUV Compared Against G-Wagen, XM, and Defender
By Hugo Mattson August 26, 2025
The BMW G74 will be launched in 2029 as BMW's first true rugged luxury SUV as the Mercedes G-Class.
Our sketches illustrate what the Neue Klasse design could look like on a rugged SUV, alongside the G-Class, XM, and Defender.
As a high-end, more-than-$150,000 flagship, the G74 constitutes BMW's entry into the off-road luxury space dominated by iconic models.
BMW's Next Big Move Into Rugged Luxury
BMW has been in the performance and luxury SUV segment but has not directly competed with the Mercedes G-Class. That may change with the G74, in 2029. Unlike the performance-focused XM, which did not catch on with buyers, the G74 is becoming BMW's first serious effort at a real-world, off-road-capable SUV.
To get a first glimpse of the G74, we imagined it based on the Neue Klasse design and placed it next to its closest rivals: the Mercedes G-Class, BMW XM, and Land Rover Defender.
Design: Neue Klasse Meets Tough Proportions
At DailyRevs, we see BMW's unequivocal indication that its subsequent models will adopt the Neue Klasse design language. The G74 render captures that transformation, applying hard surfaces, narrow lighting, and contemporary proportions to a square off-road shape. But history has taught us that with halo products, BMW tends to surprise. From aggressive grilles to non-standard proportions, the company has a tendency to provide particulars no render will ever anticipate. That uncertainty is all part of the fascination with the G74 — though the Neue Klasse philosophy will ensure it, the ultimate realization might have hidden aspects to make it stand out from the G-Class as well as the Defender.
In the Engine: Powertrain Expectations
Final details are yet to be known, but the G74 will probably be fitted with hybrid and possibly all-electric powertrains. It should be based on a modified version of the X5 platform, with essentials for an actual off-roader like locking differentials, ground-degree-specific modes, and higher ground clearance.
With BMW's M division in the mix, the power could be over 600 horsepower in top trims but will be put towards capability, not just speed.
Inside the G74: Luxury and Practicality
The interior will take heavily from the Neue Klasse design, prioritizing minimalism and digital technology. It will likely feature expansive curved screens, an innovative head-up display, and green materials.
Unlike the XM, the G74 will be trying to blend luxury and ruggedness for off-road use. The focus will be on comfort and technology, without compromising on the ruggedness needed for this segment.
BMW G74 vs. Competitors: Renders in Context
G74 vs. Mercedes G-Class
The G-Class is not just an SUV, though—it's also a cultural icon. Its design hasn't altered much in decades, and that's why it's so popular with owners. Our own G74 render, meanwhile, appears sleeker and more modern, foregoing heritage for a glimpse at the future. Whether or not customers will accept this change is BMW's biggest test.
G74 vs. BMW XM
The XM is BMW's newest flagship SUV, but its design divided opinion and did not justify its premium price. Compared to the XM, the G74 render seems more utilitarian and genuine. While the XM focuses on excess and performance, the G74 is raw elegance and off-road presence.
G74 vs. Land Rover Defender
The Defender has reinvented itself well, combining modern comfort with off-road toughness. Next to it, the G74 appears neater and more futuristic, less reliant on old nostalgia and more on BMW's idea of a battery-powered, computerized off-road future.
Market Position and Strategy
The G74 will most probably be made in Spartanburg, USA, and will most probably boast a probable starting price well in excess of $150,000. This would place it on a direct head-to-head with the Mercedes G-Class, the Land Rover Defender, and the Ineos Grenadier.
While the Defender pulls on its history and the Grenadier digs in on mechanical solidity, the G74 will rely on modern design and cutting-edge technology to sparkle. It's a brave step that could finally provide BMW with the rugged flagship it has been lacking.
Looking Ahead
The BMW G74 is not just a new SUV; its a shift of course away from niche attempts like the XM towards a car that captures clear demand. By blending Neue Klasse appearance with real off-road capability, BMW is seeking to entice shoppers who appreciate luxury as well as hard-won respect.
If the production model delivers on what these renders show, the G74 could become one of BMW’s most significant halo models of the decade.
