BMW X3 gets LWB version for the first time in China – stretched G45 comes with 110mm longer wheelbase

China loves long-wheelbase cars, so it’s no surprise that BMW is introducing a stretched version of the Fourth generation (G45) X3 serve customers there. An interesting bit of information, this is the first time the X3 is offered with an extended wheelbase, as previous generations of the brand’s Sports Utility Vehicles (SAVs) sold in the country had the same standard wheelbase as the rest of the world.

Manufactured by BMW Brilliance Automotive at a factory in Shenyang, the X3 LWB shares many of the same design cues as the standard wheelbase model, but has a longer roofline that increases the overall length from 4,755 mm to 4,865 mm – while the width remains the same at 1,920 mm.

The wheelbase has been increased by 110 mm, now reaching 2,975 mm, giving passengers more legroom in the rear seats, along with a large panoramic sunroof that can optionally be equipped with Sky Lounge lighting.

The X3 LWB is powered by a B48 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four petrol engine, available in two powertrains. The base X3 25L xDrive makes 190 PS (188 hp or 140 kW) and 310 Nm of torque, while the X3 30L xDrive makes 258 PS (255 hp or 190 kW) and 400 Nm of torque.

As you can see, the petrol variants have dropped the ‘i’ suffix, this is the new naming system that Latest Series 1 also follows. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive.

The X3 is an important model for BMW in China, with around 156,000 of the previous generation being delivered to customers last year. Therefore, the introduction of the LWB version is expected to broaden and enhance the appeal of the SAV.

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