The BMW Group has introduced an extended variant of the latest generation 5 Series sedan specifically for buyers in China. This longer model is set to be offered in both traditional internal combustion engine configurations and an electric option known as the i5. Compared with the standard wheelbase version, the extended edition gains additional space for rear passengers, notably increasing legroom behind the front seats, and features a revised rear-door layout to accommodate the longer bodywork.
Official figures for the overall exterior dimensions have not been published. However, in the prior generation, the long-wheelbase version of the 5 Series exceeded the standard model by 132 centimeters in length, creating a more generous rear cabin experience. The exact powertrain options for the Chinese market have not been disclosed in detail, but the lineup is expected to mirror the global approach of pairing a conventional gasoline or diesel engine with an all-electric variant for customers seeking a zero-emission option.
Inside, the new model also brings a notable display feature: a 31-inch high-definition curved center screen that draws styling cues from BMW’s flagship 7 Series, delivering a cockpit that aims to blend luxury with a futuristic feel. In recent years, the 5 Series models sold in China from 2020 through 2022 reached a cumulative production and sales volume of around 530,000 units, reflecting strong local demand for the midsize executive sedan in the Chinese market.
The latest generation 5 Series made its public debut at the end of May, signaling BMW’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its mid-size range in China. The rollout of a long-wheelbase variant underscores a strategy to enhance rear-seat comfort for chauffeur-driven or family-oriented buyers who prioritize rear legroom and a more relaxed ride on longer commutes or business trips.
Meanwhile, industry chatter had previously pointed to Fiat releasing a new affordable electric car, illustrating the broader trend in the automotive sector toward accessible electric mobility. While that development pertains to a different brand and segment, it resonates with the same market dynamics driving demand for practical, cost-effective electrified options in a crowded field of midsize sedans and executive cars across the region.