[Spy Photos] BMW 8 Series and X7 prototypes in Colorado Mountains

BMW engineers have brought prototypes of the BMW Concept 8 Series Coupe and the X7 SUV up the Colorado mountains for the annual high altitude testing. Both cars are positioned at the top of their range. The BMW 8 Series will be the new flagship of the non-SUV lineup and the BMW X7 will be the brand’s first true seven-seater.

The seven-seat X7 is expected to do well not only in the US but also in other markets like China. It is designed to offer enhanced luxury features and a series of autonomous driving functions so it is safe to say that it is the most advanced BMW SUV yet.

BMW is likely to offer the X7 with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, plus a choice of other conventional engines. Sources have previously speculated that it will feature a selection of six and eight-cylinder engines, such as the 3.0-liter diesel in 30d, 40d and 50d guises and the twin-turbo 4.4-liter petrol V8 from the X6 xDrive50i.

A plug-in hybrid variant could be similar to the drivetrain used in the 740e, which packs a 2.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline four-cylinder, 16-valve 255-hp engine, combined a twin-scroll turbocharger with variable valve control (Double-VANOS and Valvetronic), high-precision direct injection and eDrive 111-hp electric motor. Total power output of 322 hp.

The new 8 Series will also debut next year as a replacement for the 6 Series. It will also be more luxurious though powertrain is still unknown at this point. It is likely to borrow engines from the 7 Series, including a 3.0-liter turbo-six, a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8, and even a 6.6-liter twin-turbo V-12.

Both cars will be showcased at the upcoming Frankfurt Auto Show.