Prior to the start of the global financial crisis back in 2008 BMW was working on a new full-size SUV positioned above the X5 and X6 to take on rivals like the Range Rover and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. However, plans for the new model, which was to be called the X7, were quickly dropped as BMW focused on the compact X1 crossover and second-generation X3, as well as the introduction of more efficient diesel models in North America.

The decision to the ditch the X7 was made as a direct response to declining profits, falling demand (especially in the U.S.) and tough new emissions and fuel-economy standards being rolled out on both sides of the Atlantic. But with China’s unquenchable thirst for big luxurious rides, there are now claims that BMW is reconsidering its plans to launch the X7 SUV.

According to an article in The Wall Street Journal, BMW already isn’t producing enough vehicles to meet its Chinese orders and things are only set to get worse as the U.S. market may rebound quicker than many of the naysayers think. The situation has become so severe that BMW is reportedly looking once again at launching a new large SUV. 

Originally targeted at customers in the U.S., the X7 has the potential to be a top seller in the Chinese market. In fact, a proper seven-seat SUV with all the luxury trimmings of the BMW 7-Series sedan may just be what the doctor ordered.

If built, expect the vehicle to be offered with six-cylinder and V-8 powerplants, as well as an ActiveHybrid option.

[The Wall Street Journal via BMW Blog]