BMW has introduced the iX5 Long Wheelbase, an all-electric model built exclusively for the Chinese market, with a wheelbase stretched 5.1 inches (130 mm) beyond X5 variants sold elsewhere and a stated range above 620 miles (1,000 km) on China’s CLTC cycle. It arrives alongside a combustion-engine X5 Long Wheelbase, the first time BMW will offer combustion and battery-electric X5 models side by side in China. The BMW X5 and BMW iX5 Long Wheelbase are standalone model variants rather than adaptations of the global cars, combining X5 engineering with Neue Klasse technologies and hardware and software specified for Chinese customers. Market launch is scheduled for 2027.
Highlights
- Wheelbase: 124.6 inches (3,165 mm) total, 5.1 inches (130 mm) longer than X5 models sold in other markets
- Range: more than 620 miles (1,000 km) on the CLTC cycle for the all-electric iX5, using sixth-generation BMW eDrive Technology
- Driver assistance: navigation-guided “Address-to-Address” system built on locally trained end-to-end AI developed with Momenta
- Launch: 2027, with combustion X5 and all-electric iX5 sold in China concurrently for the first time
A Wheelbase Built Around the Rear Seat
The extended wheelbase is the defining difference between the China models and the global X5. At 3,165 mm (124.6 inches), it runs 130 mm (5.1 inches) longer than the wheelbase used elsewhere. BMW says the added length improves ride comfort and stability while opening up cabin space, with the gain concentrated in rear legroom — the priority in China’s chauffeur-driven luxury segment.
The stretch also alters the side profile, which the company frames as reinforcing the proportions of both the X5 and the iX5.
Design Elements Specific to the China Models
Both cars carry diagonal light icons at the front, with double-X light icons offered as an alternative for customers who prefer them. Light strips positioned between the light icons and the BMW kidney Iconic Glow add depth to the front end and form part of the vehicles’ welcome and goodbye animations. The combustion X5 receives a front end redesigned specifically for the Chinese market.
Interior Materials and Display Architecture
The interior uses a restructured design concept with streamlined surfaces and a monochromatic color scheme. Seating for the front passenger and rear occupants was developed specifically for these models to improve ride comfort, and material choices include slate and glass. A three-dimensional backlit accent strip with integrated ambient lighting carries over from Neue Klasse.
The display layout centers on BMW Panoramic iDrive running BMW Operating System X, paired with BMW Panoramic Vision and a free-cut Central Display designed to appear as though it is floating. The BMW Passenger Screen is available on an X5 for the first time. In the rear, the next iteration of BMW Theatre Screen supports 8K streaming and gaming and adds a video call function aimed at working from the car.
How Does BMW’s China Driver Assistance System Work?
BMW says it has been developing driver assistance systems for more than two decades, with an emphasis on operational safety in complex real-world conditions. For the China models, the company has combined that functional-integration work with locally trained end-to-end AI developed in partnership with Chinese autonomous driving firm Momenta. The result, according to BMW, is a navigation-guided “Address-to-Address” driver assistance system. The central computer handling automated driving operates in conjunction with Heart of Joy, the Neue Klasse control unit.
Both models also receive adaptive two-axle air suspension as standard equipment.
Two Drivetrains, One Model Line
The all-electric iX5 uses sixth-generation BMW eDrive Technology paired with the company’s high-voltage battery concept. BMW states range of more than 1,000 km (621 miles) on the CLTC cycle — China’s certification standard, which is not directly comparable to EPA figures and generally produces higher numbers than the US procedure.
The combustion X5 Long Wheelbase and the all-electric iX5 Long Wheelbase reach the market together in 2027.
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