G claSome cars aren’t just vehicles — they’re legends. Over the past century, a few models have carved their names into automotive history forever. Think Ford Model T, Volkswagen Beetle… and in the world of luxury off-roaders, the unmistakable Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Having an icon like that in your lineup is a massive bragging right. So it’s not hard to understand why BMW has decided it’s time to build a rival worthy of the crown.
According to fresh leaks, BMW is working on something big — really big. It’s an all-new SUV, codenamed G74, designed specifically to go toe-to-toe with the G-Class. And if all goes according to plan, we’ll see it in 2029.
The Plan
This won’t just be an X5 with a tougher look. The G74 is expected to ride on a seriously upgraded version of the X5’s platform, re-engineered for real off-road muscle. It’s BMW saying, “We can do rugged too — and make it luxurious.” Production will happen in Spartanburg, South Carolina — the same plant that builds the X5 and X7 — so BMW’s already got the know-how for big, high-end SUVs. Fun fact: it’s scheduled to launch just a year after the XM bows out in 2028.
Luxury vs. Legend
The G-Class isn’t cheap — the G550 starts around $149,400 (SAR 560,250) — and BMW’s XM isn’t far off at $160,775 (SAR 602,906). So expect this battle to be about more than just power. It’ll be a clash of style, comfort, and pure road presence. BMW’s goal? Build something that can crawl up a rocky trail at dawn and roll into a five-star hotel driveway at night without missing a beat.
BMW’s Leap into the Wild
Right now, BMW’s “xOffroad” package on the X5 is a nice extra, but it’s not G-Class territory. That’s why the G74 will be built from scratch to tackle rough terrain, not just muddy parking lots.
Why Now?
The G-Class just hit a major milestone — over 600,000 sold since it first rolled out. Clearly, people love a boxy, powerful, luxury machine that can go anywhere. BMW sees a wide-open lane and is ready to step on the gas.
What We’re Expecting
While BMW’s keeping the juicy details quiet, here’s what’s being whispered:
A bold, square design with a “move over” attitude.
A cabin that blends luxury with BMW’s latest tech — including advanced driver assistance.
All-wheel-drive magic and the choice of hybrid or electric power under the hood.
If BMW nails it, the G74 could be the start of a new rivalry — one that might finally give the G-Class some real competition.
