BMW introduced the BMW X3 Long Wheelbase, a new variant of its compact SUV designed to offer more interior space. Based on the standard X3, BMW developed it with a 111 mm (4.4 inches) longer wheelbase, which improves passenger space. This increase represents a meaningful upgrade for rear-seat occupants rather than a simple enlargement.
BMW developed the BMW X3 Long Wheelbase as a strategic model to compete in the Chinese premium SUV segment. In response to intensifying competition, BMW launched a model that reflects local consumer preferences for larger interior spaces. The X3 Long Wheelbase demonstrates the brand’s efforts to tailor vehicles to the Chinese market.
BMW paid attention to rear-seat accommodations, a crucial factor in the Chinese market. It designed the model with rear-seat space as a top priority because this feature is especially important in the Chinese market. It preserved its signature 50:50 weight distribution even though the vehicle’s overall length has increased. The rear knee room has increased by 96 mm (3.8 inches), and the car is now 25 mm (1 inch) wider than the standard X3. This expansion gives the vehicle a more commanding presence.
The X3 Long Wheelbase has two powertrain options using a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine. The X3 xDrive 25 Long Wheelbase produces 190 horsepower and 310 Nm (229 lb-ft / 31.6 kg·m) of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.7 seconds. The X3 xDrive 30 Long Wheelbase delivers 258 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft / 40.8 kg·m) of torque. This model reaches 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.5 seconds.
The X3 Long Wheelbase is larger and features visual enhancements. During a facelift, BMW added LED lighting and darkened the tail lamps, improving the vehicle’s nighttime presence. BMW’s front grille, which uses the iconic kidney shape, now includes LED illumination, reinforcing the vehicle’s premium image.
The model is equipped with BMW’s latest digital infotainment system, which is tailored for the Chinese market. This system features a responsive touchscreen, smart voice recognition, real-time navigation, and over-the-air (OTA) update capabilities. It also includes digital services specific to the Chinese market and reflecting local lifestyles.
BMW manufactures the BMW X3 Long Wheelbase at Plant Lydia, a joint venture factory in China operated by BMW and Brilliance Automotive. The official price has yet to be announced, but analysts expect it to be slightly higher than the current X3’s approximately $50,000. The Long Wheelbase version is expected to exceed $52,500.
BMW expects that the X3 Long Wheelbase, with its larger interior, stronger engines, and updated technology, will have a strong presence in China’s premium SUV market. Industry observers closely watch how closely watches in one of the world’s largest automotive markets.
