BMW is defending its controversial decision to use considerably larger versions of its classic double-kidney grille.
Product boss Peter Henrich told Autocar the new design language has received “very positive” feedback and that he was “convinced” the new direction was wise.
Under design director Adrian van Hooydonk, BMW grilles have increased in size, starting with the refreshed 7 Series and all-new X7.
The 2021 BMW iNext has been snapped on a trailer alongside the current X5, although the company has worked hard to conceal details about its upcoming technology flagship.
Where the upcoming iX3 and i4 will be based on the internal-combustion X3 and 4 Series respectively, the iNext will be something a bit different. It's not expected to share cues with an existing model.
The interior and exterior of the BMW iNext have been spied during testing in Germany, revealing the futuristic car's production form.
While the upcoming electric iX3 and i4 models are closely based on the conventionally powered X3 and 4 Series Gran Coupe, the iNext looks as though it will no such relationship.
Styling is inspired by the 2018 concept car, and both cars feature a five-door crossover body with clamshell bonnet and tailgate.
The BMW iNext Concept has been teased ahead of its debut later this year, probably at the 2018 Paris motor show in September.
A sketch previewing the upcoming concept car was presented overnight to shareholders at the BMW's annual general meeting. Harald Krüger, BMW CEO, called the iNext project the "building kit for [the company's] future".
At the company's annual general meeting, Harold Krueger, BMW's CEO, revealed elements of the product roadmap for its i sub-brand, including an self-driving car to be known as the BMW iNext.
After launching the updated i3 hatch this year, which sports a new battery capable of a range of around 200 kilometres, the company will unveil the roadster version of the i8 in 2018.
