BMW edged closer to the world premiere of the iX3 Long Wheelbase (LWB), an all-electric Sports Activity Vehicle built on the brand’s Neue Klasse platform and developed specifically with China in mind.
BMW said the iX3 Long Wheelbase is planned not only for China, but also for selected international markets that include Malaysia, alongside Thailand, Indonesia and India, after its debut at the Beijing Auto Show 2026 (April 24-May 3).
The carmaker expects the model to enter the market in the second half of 2026.
BMW added that the iX3 Long Wheelbase is still running through development and validation programmes in China and internationally, suggesting timing and final specifications for markets such as Malaysia would be confirmed later.
The model is BMW’s first long-wheelbase, all-electric SAV on Neue Klasse, and as a key piece of its China localisation push.
The long-wheelbase format extends the wheelbase by 108mm, with BMW promising a clear lift in rear-seat comfort while keeping typical BMW proportions and handling balance.
A China-specific chassis and suspension tune aims to blend comfort and stability across day-to-day city use and longer trips.
Under the skin, BMW highlighted its new “Heart of Joy” control unit and BMW Dynamic Performance Control software. The system coordinates the powertrain, braking, energy recuperation and steering in real time, and BMW claimed it delivers especially smooth deceleration via a “Soft Stop” function.
On the cabin tech front, the iX3 Long Wheelbase introduces BMW Panoramic iDrive running BMW Operating System X. The layout combines BMW Panoramic Vision, a 3D head-up display, a driver-focused central display and a multifunction steering wheel with illuminated controls and haptic feedback.
BMW said around 70% of the China version’s software engineering is developed locally.
Navigation is developed with Amap, voice functions tap large language models from Alibaba and DeepSeek, and integration with Huawei tech includes Digital Key, HiCar and a HarmonyOS NEXT-based My BMW App. BMW also said it is developing a China-specific ADAS stack with Momenta.
Power comes from an 800-volt architecture with sixth-generation BMW eDrive, including cylindrical cells and the BMW Energy Master. BMW claimed a CLTC range above 900km, DC charging up to 400kW, and V2L capability.
