BMW iX3 Long Wheelbase Concludes Real-World Testing in China with Flying Colors

BMW is currently in the final stages of testing the upcoming iX3 Long Wheelbase in China before its official launch. This electric SUV, tailored specifically for the Chinese market, will be manufactured by BMW Brilliance Automotive in Shenyang as the first Neue Klasse model designed for Chinese consumers.

The latest prototypes are undergoing testing in some of China’s most challenging environments, from high-altitude plateaus to congested city streets, long highways, adverse weather conditions, and drastic temperature changes. BMW’s objective is to ensure that the iX3 Long Wheelbase can handle the diverse climate and road conditions prevalent in China.

BMW engineers are focusing on various aspects such as thermal management, battery conditioning, energy recuperation, charging stability, ride comfort, and intelligent energy distribution during the testing phase. High-altitude testing is particularly crucial due to the unique challenges posed by thinner air, elevation changes, and steep gradients.

Distinct Door Handles for Chinese Market

The current test vehicle is a pre-production model, still featuring older retractable door handles. However, the production version of the China-specific iX3 Long Wheelbase is anticipated to have traditional BMW-style door handles, akin to the i4 and i5 models.

The iX3 Long Wheelbase holds significant importance for BMW in China, as it has been tailored to meet the preferences of Chinese consumers who prioritize rear-seat space and comfort for long journeys. The extended wheelbase enhances the electric SUV’s premium positioning in China, especially when compared to local electric vehicle competitors focusing on cabin space, digital features, and charging capabilities.

BMW aims to ensure that the iX3 Long Wheelbase delivers consistent electric performance in all conditions encountered by Chinese drivers. This includes city traffic, long-distance highway travel, abrupt weather changes, and mountainous routes where energy management is critical.

Enhanced Features and Specifications

The China-bound BMW iX3 Long Wheelbase, internally known as the NA6, offers more than just a longer wheelbase compared to the global iX3 NA5. With an extended wheelbase of 3,005 mm, the additional space is dedicated to enhancing rear-seat comfort. The rear seats feature longer and thicker cushions, reclining seatbacks, plush pillows, upgraded ambient lighting, premium speaker grilles, metallic coat hooks, and a wireless charging pad in the rear armrest. The front passenger area also receives attention with a leg rest and additional seat controls on the center armrest.

Furthermore, cargo capacity has been increased to 1,900 liters with the rear seats folded, providing an additional 150 liters compared to the global iX3. The front trunk remains unchanged at 58 liters. BMW promises a range of over 900 kilometers on China’s CLTC cycle and supports up to 400 kW DC fast charging with the 800-volt architecture. Rapid charging capabilities allow the long-wheelbase iX3 to add approximately 400 kilometers of range in just 10 minutes at a high-output charger. Initially, the stretched iX3 will launch as a 50 xDrive model.