BMW is preparing a major reshuffle of its global lineup following the arrival of the new 3 Series. The automaker plans to reduce selected models and variants while adding a new U.S.-specific Sports Activity Vehicle positioned above the X7.

BMW has not announced the SUV’s name, price, dimensions, or launch timing. The company describes it as an additional offering tailored to American customers, rather than a replacement for an existing model. The unofficial X8 label is often associated with this vehicle, but BMW has not confirmed that name.

A bigger SUV for the U.S. market

BMW says strong demand for large SUVs is driving the decision to expand at the top of its range. Its Spartanburg, South Carolina, plant is currently operating at full capacity, underscoring the importance of the segment to BMW’s U.S. business.

The new model will sit above the X7, making it the highest-positioned SUV in BMW’s lineup. Beyond that placement, the automaker has not released technical details or confirmed whether the vehicle will offer gasoline, plug-in hybrid, or fully electric powertrains.

BMW will cut selected models and variants

Adding another large SUV will not mean unlimited expansion. BMW says it is reviewing its number of models and variants, with the goal of concentrating on vehicles that deliver the strongest long-term returns in individual markets.

The automaker specifically identified the 2 Series Active Tourer as a model facing removal. BMW did not announce a broader list of discontinued nameplates, so other potential changes remain unconfirmed.

BMW also plans to use artificial intelligence more extensively across vehicle development, manufacturing, sales, and aftersales operations. The move is part of a broader effort to create a more focused portfolio that can respond to regional demand.

China and Neue Klasse expansion

China will become a larger part of BMW’s product strategy. The company plans to increase local production of high-volume vehicles as it introduces Neue Klasse technology, targeting at least 95 percent of the vehicles it sells in China to be locally manufactured and developed for Chinese customers by 2030.

BMW says Neue Klasse technology will eventually reach every vehicle segment. In Europe, the automaker is also planning a new fully electric entry-level model for 2028. That vehicle could become a new 1 Series, although BMW has not confirmed its name.

A new BMW Alpina model is coming

BMW says the first model under the BMW Alpina brand will arrive next year. Inspired by the 7 Series, the vehicle will occupy a position between the standard BMW range and Rolls-Royce in the company’s luxury hierarchy.

Together, the changes point to a more region-specific strategy: a larger SUV for American buyers, more localized development in China, and smaller electric models for Europe. BMW has not yet provided further details on timing or specifications for the new SUV.