The BMW iX3 Long Wheelbase represents a bold step forward in the brand’s commitment to the Chinese electric vehicle market. Currently appearing in professional media drives as a camouflaged prototype, this model is the first long-wheelbase SAV built on the Neue Klasse architecture. It embodies the guiding principle of being developed in China, specifically for the needs of Chinese drivers. While the standard version targets global roads, this extended variant prioritizes rear-seat comfort and digital localization. Its upcoming world premiere at the Beijing Auto Show 2026 will reveal the final production design to the public. This vehicle serves as a high-tech bridge between traditional BMW driving pleasure and future autonomous capabilities. It is a critical milestone for the company’s electrification strategy in Asia.
Stretched Wheelbase and Personalized Chassis Calibration
The core appeal of the BMW iX3 Long Wheelbase lies in its significantly increased interior dimensions. Engineers have extended the distance between the axles by 108 millimeters to create a superior rear-seat experience. This extra space allows for more legroom and a more relaxed seating position for premium passengers. To maintain the brand’s dynamic character, a China-specific chassis and suspension setup has been carefully developed. This calibration ensures a refined balance between high-speed stability and the comfort required for urban traffic. The long-wheelbase configuration has been integrated without sacrificing the agility that defines the Sports Activity Vehicle segment. It effectively provides a limousine-like feel within a versatile SUV body style. The result is a vehicle that feels both spacious and remarkably planted.
The Heart of Joy and Revolutionary Soft Stop Tech
A new central control unit known as the Heart of Joy manages the soul of the BMW iX3 Long Wheelbase. This advanced hardware coordinates the powertrain, braking, and steering functions in real-time to deliver a seamless drive. It works in tandem with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software to provide consistent and natural feedback. One standout feature is the unique Soft Stop function, which eliminates the jerkiness often associated with heavy electric vehicles. This technology ensures the smoothest stopping process ever achieved by a BMW vehicle in its long history. By optimizing energy recuperation, the system also maximizes efficiency without unsettling the cabin occupants. This focus on smooth transitions makes the long-wheelbase model a standout in the luxury EV market. It is a masterclass in modern software-defined vehicle dynamics.
Localized Intelligence and the Panoramic iDrive Interface
Digital intelligence is a primary focus for the BMW iX3 Long Wheelbase, which debuts the new BMW Panoramic iDrive. This next-generation interface features a display that spans the entire base of the windshield for better visibility. The system runs on BMW Operating System X, with approximately 70 percent of its software developed locally in China. This allows for deep integration with popular platforms like Amap for precise navigation and Alibaba for voice assistance. Furthermore, the inclusion of DeepSeek large language models enables more natural and conversational interaction with the car. Connectivity with Huawei’s HarmonyOS NEXT ensures that personal devices sync perfectly with the vehicle’s ecosystem. This localization strategy ensures the car feels like a natural extension of the user’s digital life. It is a highly tailored experience for the modern tech-savvy driver.
Power Engine Specs and Rapid 800 Volt Charging Performance
The BMW iX3 Long Wheelbase is built on an advanced 800-volt electrical architecture that supports sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology. It features high-density cylindrical battery cells that enable a CLTC combined range exceeding 900 kilometers. With a massive maximum charging capacity of 400 kW, owners can add 400 kilometers of range in roughly ten minutes. A 10 to 80 percent charge is completed in approximately 21 minutes at compatible high-power charging stations. The vehicle also supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality for powering external electronics during outdoor activities. These technical specs place the iX3 at the forefront of the premium electric SAV segment for performance. It offers a level of convenience that matches its high-output dual-motor powertrain. This architecture ensures the vehicle remains competitive for years to come.
Summary of the Upcoming China Market SAV
The BMW iX3 Long Wheelbase is set to redefine what Chinese customers expect from a premium electric SUV. While it remains under camouflage for now, the technical details suggest a vehicle that is perfectly tuned for its target market. The combination of an extended wheelbase and 800-volt rapid charging addresses the two biggest needs of luxury EV buyers. Its deep integration with local software providers like Huawei and DeepSeek further differentiates it from global competitors. Following its April 2026 debut, the model will launch in China before expanding to other Asian markets. This SAV represents a significant leap in digitalization and localized engineering for the BMW Group. It is a testament to the brand’s ability to adapt its core DNA to a rapidly changing global landscape. The future of Neue Klasse starts here.
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Source: BMW
