BMW Launches Long-Wheelbase iX3 for China with Upgraded Interior—But Unavailable in Most Markets

BMW has launched a long-wheelbase version of its all-electric SUV, the iX3, specifically for the Chinese market. Built on a platform designed exclusively for electric vehicles, the model features a wheelbase extended by 108 mm to 3,005 mm to enhance rear legroom. Compared with the global version, the long-wheelbase iX3 receives several interior upgrades, including thicker rear seats with greater recline angles, two-tone upholstery, enhanced ambient lighting, more refined speaker grilles, and a wireless charging pad integrated into the rear center armrest. The front passenger seat now includes physical buttons for seat adjustment and adds a leg rest for improved comfort. Notably, despite Chinese consumers’ general preference for large screens, this model actually incorporates more physical control buttons than the international version—such as dedicated rear seat heating controls. Externally, due to China’s latest regulations, the vehicle replaces the pop-out door handles found on the global model with conventional fixed handles—a change also applied to the long-wheelbase i3 sedan. Historically, BMW’s long-wheelbase models have been sold exclusively in China, but the new long-wheelbase iX3 will also be introduced in select other markets, excluding Europe and North America. Meanwhile, the standard-wheelbase iX3 has not yet launched in the U.S. and is expected to begin deliveries there this fall. In addition to the iX3, BMW already offers long-wheelbase versions of the X1/iX1 and X5 in China and plans to continue this lengthened strategy with the next-generation X5 and the brand’s first all-electric iX5, both scheduled for launch this summer. These China-specific models typically offer larger dimensions and higher specifications while carrying lower price tags than their international counterparts.