It seems that BMW is envious of the success of the Mercedes G-Class and is preparing a rival for the iconic off-roader, which will have a ladder-frame structure and similar off-road capabilities.
Operation G74 is the codename for a BMW off-roader designed to compete with the Mercedes G-Class. To this end, BMW is considering modifying the X5 platform and installing a ladder-frame structure, lockable differentials, increasing ground clearance, and offering off-road driving modes. Production is expected to start at BMW’s Spartanburg plant in South Carolina in the second half of 2029, according to Automotive News.
At the moment, there is no official information, but we can imagine a few things. BMW already has inline six-cylinder diesel and petrol engines, which are used in the Ineos Grenadier off-roader, developed by specialists at Magna Steyr in Graz—the same place where the G-Class is produced.In addition, BMW is one of the few manufacturers still offering a high-performance V8 engine, meaning that a BMW off-roader with a V8 could successfully compete with the Mercedes-AMG G 63. We do not believe BMW plans to develop an electric version, considering that the Mercedes G 580 EQ has been a major commercial failure. However, it is possible that BMW will offer mild hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions, as it already has such powertrains in the BMW X5, X7, and XM.
It will be difficult for BMW to follow the business model of the Mercedes G-Class, which, in addition to civilian sales, has contracts with numerous armies around the world for the delivery of military vehicles. Recently, the German army ordered 5,800 military G-Class units to be delivered by 2032. Thus, an important part of G-Class sales goes to armies in various parts of the world.
On the other hand, in the engine supply contract with Ineos, BMW stipulated that these engines cannot be used in military vehicles. Ineos would have liked to enter the military vehicle market, but BMW did not agree. According to unofficial information, Ineos was seeking a reliable four-cylinder engine for the development of a military version.