BMW NA6 iX3 Long-Wheelbase SUV Adds Space and Luxury for China in 2026

Ever needed one thing just a bit bit larger than an X3, however not as vast or tall because the BMW X5? Effectively, in case you occur to stay in China, you’re in luck. The subsequent mannequin to get a stretched model would be the the BMW NA6 iX3, a Chinese language market solely affair that sees the X3’s wheelbase develop by a number of inches with the intention to higher accommodate riders within the rear. What received’t change are energy and torque figures. The NA6 iX3 will share all drivetrain parts with the common iX3. In fact, as all Chinese language market lengthy wheelbase autos are produced within China, so too will this one.

The Chinese language market has a penchant for prioritizing rear-seat passengers. The long-wheelbase iX3 will be a part of a lot of different prolonged fashions, together with the BMW 3 Sequence and 5 Sequence. Even different SUVs have seen longer variants, together with the X1 and X5. Relating to electrical and elongated fashions, Chinese language clients may select from long-wheelbase variants of the iX1 and i5.

The iX3 Lengthy Wheelbase Focuses on Consolation

Whereas energy numbers will stay unchanged from the common iX3, there’s one apparent spot that the iX3L will differ: the rear seats. The iX3L is predicted to be near the size of an everyday BMW X5. However, since cargo quantity will stay roughly the identical between the iX3L and common iX3, meaning an enormous enhance in rear passenger room. Like with the gas-powered X3 long-wheelbase, we’re fairly sure the iX3L will characteristic a larger reclining angle for the rear seats. The particular benches additionally get thigh help extensions for elevated help. Previous that, anticipate normal luxurious and high quality of life enhancements, like wi-fi charging pads within the rear.

Maybe most critical is an addition unavailable to, and a little bit of a sore spot for, US consumers. The iX3L will get rear door playing cards sporting ambient lighting accents. Our driving impressions of the X3 xDrive30 left us feeling greater than a bit of underwhelmed. Notably within the inside refinement division. Mockingly, it appears BMW could have felt the identical and is treating Chinese language clients who spring for the iX3L to a bit of little bit of a rear seat mild present.

No matter how you’re feeling in regards to the iX3L, you’ll have to attend a short while to get behind the wheel. The iX3L received’t arrive on Chinese language streets till mid-2026. Whereas the common iX3 is alleged to be 188.1 inches (4,780 millimeters), we’re assuming the iX3L will creep nearer to the X5’s 193 inches (4902 mm) in size. We’ll have extra particulars because the launch will get nearer; possible, early subsequent yr.