BMW to debut long-wheelbase Neue Klasse iX3 in China

BMW AG said on Wednesday it will unveil a long-wheelbase Neue Klasse iX3 in months in China, underscoring its push to localize electric and digital technologies for its largest market.

The model, tailored for the Chinese market, will make its global debut at the 2026 Beijing auto show in April, with its launch planned for the second half of the year. The vehicle is currently undergoing testing in China and other markets, BMW said.

Based on BMW's Neue Klasse architecture, the model will be the first long-wheelbase electric sports activity vehicle developed on the platform.

The wheelbase has been extended by 108 millimeters to increase rear-seat space, reflecting preferences among Chinese consumers. BMW said the chassis and suspension have been tuned locally to balance ride comfort and handling.

The vehicle will feature BMW's "Heart of Joy" central control unit, which integrates powertrain, braking, energy recuperation and steering functions through software, delivering smoother transitions and more refined braking performance.

Inside, the model will debut BMW's panoramic iDrive system running on a China-specific version of BMW Operating System X.

About 70 percent of the system's source code was developed or optimized in China, with navigation integrated with Alibaba-backed AutoNavi and connectivity features developed with Huawei.

BMW is also working with Chinese autonomous driving company Momenta on a locally tailored advanced driver-assistance system.

The iX3 long-wheelbase model will use an 800-volt architecture and next-generation cylindrical battery cells, delivering a CLTC driving range of more than 900 kilometers.

Following its China launch, the model is expected to be exported to Southeast Asia and India, said BMW.