China gets a long-wheelbase version of the BMW 3 Series

KUALA LUMPUR: 3 Series Li, a longer wheelbase version of the G20 3 Series has been unveiled by the German car manufacturer, BMW. This updated variant which features a longer wheelbase than the standard G20 3 Series has been brought out in order to cater to the needs of the Chinese customers. Other manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz and Audi have also introduced long-wheelbase variants of their cars in the Chinese markets in the past. BMW seems to be doing just that to hike the sales of its 3 Series in the country.

According to reports, BMW Brilliance Automotive will manufacture the 3 Series Li in Shenyang. BMW Brilliance Automotive is a joint venture between the Chinese automaker Brilliance Auto and BMW. The long-wheelbase version measures 4,830 mm long as compared to the previous variant which measured 4,709 mm. As a result, the wheelbase of the sedan has been increased substantially. 110 mm more than the standard G20 3 Series, the LWB G20 3 Series has a wheelbase of 2,960 mm.

The longer wheelbase on the 2 Series Li will help in attaining an increased legroom and knee room for the rear passengers. Apart from the wheelbase, there are no differences between a standard 3 Series and the long-wheelbase 3 Series except the shape of the rear doors. The vehicle displayed is also wearing the M Sport package along with a badge saying “325Li”. This badge very much tells us that the sedan is housing a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo mill.