2019 BMW 3 Series Sedan Stretches Its Wheelbase In China

Chinese love their long-wheelbase sedans, so most manufacturers are more than happy to oblige.

BMW has already launched a brand-new 3 Series, code named the G20, with a length of 4,709 mm (185.4 in), which makes it the largest 3 Series sedan ever made. It also has a 2,851 mm (112.2 in) wheelbase that’s 41mm (1.61in) longer than its predecessor’s.

Apparently, that’s not enough for Chinese customers. Enter the all-new 3 Series Li, China’s idea of a proper 3 Series sedan. According to AutoWeek.nl, it measures 4.83 meters (190.1 inches) from bumper to bumper, making it 120 mm (4.72 in) longer overall than the standard wheelbase model.

Moch of the added length is found between the axles, as the 3 Series Li has a wheelbase of 2.96 meters (116.5 inches) — 110 mm (4.3 in) more than the regular G20 3 Series sedan. Obviously, rear seat passengers benefit the most from the increased dimensions, particularly in terms of leg- and knee room.

The car you see in the photos wears an M Sport body kit and 325Li badging, which means it is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 184 PS (181 hp). Interestingly, that same engine is sold as the 320i in Europe. More powerful engines should also be available.

As with the previous-generation 3 Series Li, the new model will be built by the BMW Brilliance joint venture at the Shenyang plant. The standard wheelbase 3 Series won’t be available in China, which will only get the LWB version to compete with the Audi A4 L, Jaguar XE L, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class L.