Shanghai 2019: Long-Wheelbase G20 BMW 3 Series Breaks Cover

BMW has unveiled the long-wheelbase version of the G20 3 Series at the 2019 Shanghai Auto Show, which was developed exclusively for the Chinese market.

Chinese consumers prioritize cabin space over handling so this China-only 3 Series variant has been stretched by 110 mm, extending the wheelbase to 2,961 mm. This translates to an extra 43 mm of rear legroom, setting a new benchmark in its segment.

But aside from the long-wheelbase variant of the G20 3 Series, buyers in China can also purchase the regular wheelbase variant of the 3 Series. Both the regular and long-wheelbase variants of the G20 3 Series are assembled at the BMW Brilliance Automotive facility in Tiexi, Shenyang.

The debut of the G20 3 Series in China also marks the introduction of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, a built-in AI assistant that allows the driver to use natural voice command to control various features of the car, much like the Linguatronic feature baked into the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX).

At launch, the G20 3 Series will be available either as a 325i (regular wheelbase) or 325Li (long-wheelbase). Both models share a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that outputs 184 hp and 300 Nm. The sole transmission option is an 8-speed automatic that sends power to the rear wheels.

Although the China-exclusive models wear the 325i and 325Li designations, their power outputs are similar with the 320i models sold elsewhere.

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