Blacked-Out BMW X7 Receives Extensive Carbon-Fiber Treatment Before Successor Arrives

Even if BMW is already preparing to launch a new-gen X7, the present luxury SUV remains the preferred amongst tuning programs that have already prepared some interesting aftermarket projects.

One recent project comes from Larte Design, a tuner known for regularly publishing custom builds across its social media channels. This time, the company turned its attention to an X7 xDrive 40d and gave the model a far more assertive appearance through a collection of carbon-fiber components.

The mechanical identity remains unchanged. A quick look at the tailgate confirms the donor vehicle still carries the xDrive 40d badge on the right side. This means that the company`s roundel remains centered, with the X7 logo occupying the left side. Unfortunately, the tuner has not dwelt with the SUV`s power underneath.

Larte Design concentrated heavily on exterior modifications. At the front, a large lower spoiler integrates into the factory bumper and changes the visual balance of the vehicle. Additional trim pieces appear beneath the primary lighting units. The tuner also lists a revised hood among the upgrades. At first glance, though, the shape does not stray far from the original panel.

Along the sides, new skirts continue the theme. The rear section receives equal attention. A redesigned diffuser creates a more purposeful look, and every added component is produced from dry carbon. According to Larte Design, the material undergoes autoclave curing before hand polishing.

The rear treatment alters the personality of the vehicle more than any other area. Gone is the unusual factory exhaust arrangement. In its place sit four circular exhaust outlets, two on each side of the new diffuser. Small side blades accompany the diffuser design. Combined with the dark exterior finish and aftermarket wheels, the overall result feels much closer to a performance-oriented build than a traditional diesel family hauler.

Still, the numbers tell a different story. Power comes from a 3.0-liter straight-six diesel engine equipped with forced induction. Output stands at 335 bhp (340 ps/250 kW). Torque reaches 516 pound-feet (700 Nm).

Peak power arrives at 4,400 rpm. Maximum pulling force is available between 1,750 and 2,250 rpm. BMW quotes a 0-62 mph (0-100 kph) acceleration time of 6.1 seconds, a respectable figure for a vehicle of this size.

Buyers in the United States do not receive the diesel-powered X7. In Germany, the xDrive 40d starts at 115,850 euros, equivalent to roughly $133,575 using the exchange rate cited in the source material.

Across the Atlantic, the X7 range includes the xDrive 40i, M60i, and Alpina XB7. Their respective starting prices are $87,500, $115,000, and $156,000. While BMW works on the next chapter of the X7 story, tuners such as Larte Design continue to reinterpret the outgoing generation in their own way.

BMW X7 by Larte Design – Photo Gallery