Chinese customers have a thing for sedans so the new generation of the BMW 5-Series couldn’t be missing from this market. BMW showed the new Chinese-spec 5-Series and i5 models which are different from the rest of the world in terms of the extended wheelbase, market-specific trim and equipment features, as well as their production which takes place in China.
BMW didn’t specify how much longer is the wheelbase of the Chinese-spec sedan compared to the 117.9 inches (2,995 mm) of the global model. For good measure, the previous generation long-wheelbase 5-Series measured 3,105 mm (122.2 inches) between the axles, which was 130 mm (5.1 inches) longer than the standard version.
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The extended wheelbase is evident in the longer rear doors which provide easier access to the cabin. It also improves the proportions of the sedan, while increasing the rear legroom. Another market-specific feature is the illuminated 5 emblem on the Hofmeister kink, with a white light on the 5-Series and a blue light on the fully electric i5. The latter pulsates when the model is connected to a charger. Furthermore, the exterior and interior lighting are coordinated creating a “five-stage welcome and goodbye” show.
Moving inside, rear passengers of the Chinese 5-Series benefit from the 31.3-inch 8K panoramic display (BMW Theater Screen) which was previously available only in the 7-Series / i7 flagship, transforming the cabin into a private cinema lounge in combination with the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System. We also find a four-zone automatic climate control, premium bi-color upholstery with exclusive quilting, Titanium Bronze accents, and certain controls with the Crafted Clarity glass treatment.
The Chinese-spec BMW 5-Series and i5 will be produced at the Dadong plant in Shenyang. The factory is operated by the BMW Brilliance joint venture, with the entirety of the production capacity reserved for China.
The total sales of the locally-produced BMW 5-Series in China are close to surpassing the 2 million mark. An impressive 530,000 of those units were sold between 2020 and 2022, making the previous generation a best-seller in the premium upper mid-range segment. BMW hopes that the new model will follow the same path, fighting against the Mercedes-Benz E-Class L which will also get a new generation soon.
