BMW X3 (2024) Debuts with Extended Wheelbase: Tailoring Luxury for the Chinese Market

The 2024 BMW X3 debuts with an extended wheelbase

Adding 11 centimeters in length and extra flair for the Chinese market

German car manufacturers are responding to the recent cooling of affection from the Chinese market by showing extra attention to it. Volkswagen has already announced plans to overwhelm the Land of the Dragon with a vast new array of offerings. BMW isn't quite as aggressive in its approach but is nonetheless catering to Chinese preferences by introducing a Munich favorite in a version tailored specifically for them.

For the first time, BMW has introduced a version of the X3 with an extended wheelbase, catering to the Chinese market's preference for additional rear seat space and comfort. The latest X3 (G45) model boasts an 11-centimeter increase in both wheelbase and overall length, stretching the mid-size SUV to a length of 4,865 millimeters, with a wheelbase now at 2,975 millimeters. Despite these changes, the width remains at 1,920 millimeters and the height at 1,660 millimeters. BMW claims these dimensions are the largest among its competitors in the segment.

Typically, the Chinese customer base prefers vehicles with an abundance of features but not necessarily the most powerful engines. For this reason, the extended version of the China X3 is available with two four-cylinder gasoline engines: the 25L xDrive, which delivers 190 horsepower and 310 Nm of torque, and the 30L xDrive, which offers 258 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. Both of these models are produced locally in China. Additionally, there's a third model, the X3 M50 xDrive, which features a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine producing 398 horsepower and has a shorter wheelbase. This version, like all other X3s intended for the global market, is manufactured in the Spartanburg plant in the United States. All models come equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Photo Gallery: Extended BMW X3 (2024) Exclusive to China

The extended version of the X3 isn't just lengthier; it also features equipment details tailored specifically for the Chinese market. The M Sport package comes standard, including additional body parts painted in the same color as the vehicle and accents in Titanium Bronze. The illuminated grille is also a standard feature.

The interior features dual-tone sports seats made from a material that has a leather-like quality. There's also the option to add glass inserts on certain controls. However, features that might not be readily available in our market include the generous legroom, standard plush comfort pillows, and a center armrest that comes with a built-in compartment for wireless charging of compatible smartphones. Another standout feature, as highlighted by BMW, is the panoramic glass roof which comes with an optional 'Skylounge' ambient lighting system that offers a variety of colors and contemporary graphic designs.

The latest BMW iDrive, built on the BMW Operating System 9, offers access to a variety of digital services exclusive to the Chinese market. Furthermore, the features included in the BMW Digital Premium package are tailored to meet the specific needs and demands of customers in China.

The extended wheelbase X3 was conceived through a close collaboration between the development teams based at BMW Group's headquarters in Munich and in Shenyang. Both of these models are manufactured in Shenyang at the Lydia plant, which is the newest production facility within the BMW Brilliance Automotive (BBA) joint venture.

The X3 holds the title of being BMW's top performer in the Chinese market. Its predecessor achieved the status of the brand's highest-selling vehicle globally in 2023. In China alone, approximately 156,000 units of the X3 were delivered to customers. This represents about 40 percent of all sales of X-series models in the region, showcasing its dominance over competitors like the Mercedes GLC. Joining the X1 and X5, it becomes the third sports utility vehicle in BMW's lineup to be offered in a version specifically tailored for the Chinese market.

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