BMW’s Neue Klasse revolution is already spreading across the lineup, but the company’s next EV won’t be heading to Europe or North America. Instead, Munich is preparing a China-exclusive long-wheelbase iX3, a stretched electric crossover designed to satisfy the world’s biggest luxury-car market and its well-known appetite for rear-seat real estate.
The model—internally tagged NA6—was teased earlier this year and is now deep into late-stage development. Curiously, that testing is happening thousands of miles from where the vehicle will actually be sold. Prototypes are circulating the Nürburgring and several secret high-speed test sites across Europe, even though the finished product will be built solely in Shenyang and sold exclusively in China beginning next year.
Ringing Out Efficiency and Dynamics
BMW says the ’Ring work is all about validating the EV’s efficiency, chassis tuning, and high-speed composure—key traits for any Neue Klasse product, regardless of where it’s sold. But back in China, engineers are tuning the long-wheelbase variant with a very different mission: comfort.
The global iX3 rides on a 2,897-mm (114-in.) wheelbase. The Chinese-market X3 already stretches the distance between its axles by 111 mm over the international version, and expectations are that the long-wheelbase iX3 will follow a similar formula. That should translate into a meaningfully more spacious second row—an important metric in a market where rear passengers are often the true VIPs.
More Space, More Luxury, More China-Specific Goodies
China’s long-wheelbase X3 already offers a handful of upgrades over its export sibling: reclining rear seats (+4 degrees), extended thigh support, a clever wireless charging pad in the center armrest, crystal-finish controls, rear-door ambient lighting, and even illuminated threads woven into the panoramic glass roof.
Expect the iX3 L to mirror—and possibly expand on—those features. BMW insiders hint at unique two-tone upholstery, upgraded materials, and an overall push toward a more lounge-like rear cabin. While BMW hasn’t detailed much officially, the brand has confirmed localized driver-assistance and automated-driving tech co-developed with Momenta, aimed squarely at the Chinese digital ecosystem. CEO Oliver Zipse said the model will be “enriched by digital solutions made in China,” which is corporate-speak for software tuned to local habits, apps, and expectations.
Powertrain Rollout: Starting with the iX3 50L xDrive
BMW will reportedly begin production in May 2026, initially launching the iX3 50L xDrive—likely the sweet-spot dual-motor configuration. Lower-powered 30L and 40L xDrive variants should follow later in the year. Rumors also swirl about an M60L xDrive, which could arrive by mid-2027 with serious shove and upgraded chassis hardware.
One thing you won’t see: a long-wheelbase X3 M. BMW’s M division is apparently keeping its hardcore SUVs on the standard wheelbase.
The stretched iX3 is a fascinating example of BMW tailoring Neue Klasse hardware to specific global tastes. While European and American buyers get sportier crossovers and sedans, China receives a bespoke EV prioritizing space, comfort, and digital integration.
Testing it at the Nürburgring just ensures that—even with extra inches baked in—the iX3 L will still feel like a BMW.
Source: BMW