BMW is already preparing the next chapter of the X7 story, yet companies from the aftermarket world are still finding new ways to keep the current model in the spotlight. Larte Design is one of them.
Its latest project starts with an X7 xDrive40d, though you would not immediately guess that from the way the SUV now looks.
Moving to the rear, the xDrive40d badge stays on the right side, while the BMW emblem remains in the middle. Also, the X7 occupies the left side of the tailgate.
This build focuses on appearance rather than extra output.
Most of the work revolves around carbon-fiber components. Larte Design fitted a new lower front spoiler integrated into the factory bumper and added extra pieces beneath the main lighting units. The company also lists a replacement hood among the upgrades. Truth be told, the panel does not look dramatically different from the standard one, at least from the angles shown.
The side profile gains fresh skirts, while the rear receives a completely revised diffuser. According to the tuner, every added exterior component uses dry carbon-fiber. The material goes through an autoclave process before-hand finishing.
Then there is the exhaust setup.
The stock arrangement is gone. In its place sits a four-tip layout, with two circular outlets on each side of the rear diffuser. Small blades flank the assembly. Combined with the black paintwork and dark wheels, the entire package changes the mood of the vehicle. You stop seeing a large diesel SUV and start seeing something closer to a performance build.
Yet the numbers tell the real story.
Power still comes from BMW’s turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six diesel. Output stands at 335 bhp (340 ps/250 kW), while torque reaches 516 pound-feet (700 Nm). Peak power arrives at 4,400 rpm. Maximum torque is available from 1,750 to 2,250 rpm.
BMW states a 0-62 mph (0-100 kph) time of 6.1 seconds. Not extraordinary, not slow either, especially considering the size of the vehicle.
The diesel-powered X7 never reached American showrooms. In Germany, the xDrive40d starts at 115,850 euros, or about $133,575 using the exchange rate cited in the source material.
Meanwhile, buyers in the United States choose between the xDrive40i, M60i, and Alpina XB7. Their starting prices sit at $87,500, $115,000, and $156,000 respectively.
A new X7 is on the horizon. Larte Design clearly sees no reason to wait for it.
BMW X7 by Larte Design – Photo Gallery
