BMW's big nosed bruiser – X7 Concept

BMW's grilles are growing at an exponential rate. Over the past decade, the BMW kidney grille has stood for each specific model's place in the lineup – the 1-series got the smallest, while the flagship 7 got the largest in the model range. Now, with the X7 SUV concept, the grille is at its largest, signifying a new flagship SUV slotting in above the X5 as a uber-luxury model for those who want more elevation than the 7-series sedan.

There aren't any hints it'll be produced, although the design elements and complete interior suggest it's closer to production than you might think. Along with the sleek new Z4 concept, the X7 represents a bold new direction of BMW design – gone are the flame surfacing, replaced with slab sides and elegant proportions that neatly incorporate the traditional BMW wheels-at-the-corners layout.

The concept is packed with luxury tech – panoramic roof, dynamic lighting, leather and new-age materials - and the production version is expected to retain most of it.

Even if the X7 doesn't get built, which is unlikely, it's still an exciting prospect. Rolls Royce is rumoured to be building up to a uber-luxury SUV as well and if that is indeed the case, then the X7 and the Rolls SUV will surely share components and chassis.