China's Exclusive Luxury X5
BMW Unveils China-Exclusive Long-Wheelbase X5 and iX5 Models Featuring Enhanced Luxury and Tech
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Key Points
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The China-specific X5 and iX5 long-wheelbase models are built on BMW's Neue Klasse platform, signaling a deeper architectural integration beyond the extra length.
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Internally, BMW codes the China-only long-wheelbase X5 as the G78.
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The interior gains include a 31.3-inch Theatre Screen sourced from the 7 Series to enhance rear-seat entertainment.
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Interior tech upgrades include Panoramic iDrive with OS X, a floating central touchscreen, and a Panoramic Vision display.
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The iX5 variant uses BMW's sixth-generation eDrive with a 141 kWh battery, delivering up to about 1,000 km on the Chinese CLTC cycle.
BMW has unveiled long-wheelbase versions of the new X5 and all-electric iX5 exclusively for China, stretching both SUVs by 130 mm to a total wheelbase of 3,165 mm, according to BMW Blog. The extra length is aimed squarely at rear-seat passengers, who now get more legroom and a 31.3-inch, 8K Theatre Screen borrowed from the BMW 7 Series.
The two models are slated to go on sale in China in early 2027, Motor1 reported. BMW internally codes the long-wheelbase X5 as the G78. Other markets may eventually get the models, but no details have been confirmed.
130 mm More Wheelbase Changes the Whole Rear Experience
The wheelbase grows from 3,035 mm to 3,165 mm — a 5.1-inch stretch, BMW Blog confirmed. BMW says the added length improves high-speed stability and gives the car a stronger road presence. But the real payoff is inside. Rear passengers gain noticeably more knee room and foot space.
The rear seats are fully redesigned for comfort. BMW uses premium slate and glass materials throughout the cabin, autoevolution noted. Seat cushions are reshaped to better support long journeys. The overall feel is closer to a luxury sedan than a traditional SUV.
A 31-Inch Theatre Screen and Full Neue Klasse Tech Suite
The 31.3-inch rear Theatre Screen is the cabin's headline feature. It runs at 8K resolution, the same unit found in the 7 Series, Blaze Trends reported. For the first time on any X5, a passenger display is added up front alongside it.
The tech stack goes further. BMW fits the long-wheelbase X5 with Panoramic iDrive running OS X, a floating central touchscreen, and a Panoramic Vision display, per Star News Korea. These are all Neue Klasse-inspired features, signaling BMW is weaving its next-generation platform architecture into this model.
The iX5 Goes Electric With a 141 kWh Battery and 1,000 km Range
The iX5 long-wheelbase is the first-ever iX5 sold in China. It runs on BMW's sixth-generation eDrive system with a massive 141 kWh battery, Motor1 reported. BMW claims a range of up to 1,000 km on the Chinese CLTC testing cycle.
The regular X5 lineup will still offer petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid variants, according to autoevolution. This gives Chinese buyers a wide range of powertrain choices across the stretched X5 family.
New Exterior Lights Set the Long Model Apart Visually
BMW added new design touches to signal this is not the standard X5. Diagonal LED lighting signatures run across the front and rear. An optional double-X light design is available to further set the long-wheelbase car apart, BMW Blog noted.
The longer body also changes the car's overall proportions. BMW says the extended silhouette gives it more visual weight and presence on the road. It is a clear visual cue that this model was built for a market that values rear-seat status.
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