BMW has unveiled long-wheelbase versions of the X5 and the first-ever all-electric iX5 as standalone models built exclusively for the Chinese market. The pair stretch the wheelbase by 130 mm for extra rear-seat space and pair it with Neue Klasse technology, including a claimed electric range of up to 1,000 km (CLTC) for the iX5. Both are due to launch in China in early 2027.
BMW has introduced the new X5 and the first BMW iX5 as standalone model variants developed specifically for China. The company positions them as a blend of the X5’s established design and engineering with the future-oriented technology of its Neue Klasse platform, tailored to the expectations of Chinese buyers.
A longer wheelbase for the rear seat
The headline change is a wheelbase extended by 130 mm compared with X5 variants sold elsewhere, which BMW quotes at 3,165 mm. According to the manufacturer, the longer wheelbase improves ride comfort and stability while opening up noticeably more rear legroom — a priority in the Chinese luxury segment, where many owners are driven rather than driving.
Design tweaks unique to China
The cars wear China-specific styling, including diagonal light icons that customers can optionally swap for a double-X design. Additional light strips and an illuminated BMW kidney grille (Iconic Glow) feature in the welcome and goodbye animations, and the X5 gets a front end redesigned for the market.
Inside, BMW fits a new interior concept with a monochromatic colour scheme, specially developed front and rear seats, and materials such as slate and glass. The cabin is built around the BMW Panoramic iDrive display running Operating System X, with Panoramic Vision, a floating central display and — a first for the X5 — a Passenger Screen. A new BMW Theatre Screen brings 8K streaming, gaming and video calls to the rear compartment.
Combustion and electric side by side
For the first time in China, a combustion-engined X5 will be offered alongside the fully electric iX5. The iX5 uses BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology and, the company says, delivers a range of up to 1,000 km on the CLTC cycle. Both models get adaptive two-axle air suspension as standard.
BMW has also developed a new driver-assistance system for China in partnership with local firm Momenta, using end-to-end AI to enable navigation-guided “Address-to-Address” assistance. The system works with BMW’s “Heart of Joy” central driving computer.
What it means
The long-wheelbase treatment mirrors what rivals such as Mercedes-Benz and Audi have long done for China, and the China-only iX5 signals how central the market has become to BMW’s electric strategy. Detailed pricing, power outputs and full specifications have not yet been announced.
Market launch is scheduled for early 2027.
Facts: BMW X5 / iX5 Long Wheelbase (China)
- Wheelbase: extended by 130 mm (BMW quotes 3,165 mm)
- Powertrains: petrol (X5) and all-electric (iX5)
- Electric range: up to 1,000 km (CLTC) for iX5
- eDrive: sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology
- Chassis: adaptive two-axle air suspension (standard)
- Driver assistance: “Address-to-Address” system co-developed with Momenta
- Availability: China only, from early 2027
Source: www.press.bmwgroup.com