BMW Stretches 5 Series in China

BMW AG will introduce a long-wheelbase version of its 5 Series sedan in China later this year to cater to the market’s high-end chauffeured-vehicle segment.

The 5 Series Li model is more than five inches longer than the base car, making it nearly as big as the top-end 7 Series Bimmer. All of the extra space goes to the rear seat to increase legroom and comfort for chauffeured passengers.

Other amenities include nappa leather, a Bowers & Wilkins audio system and two 10-inch displays mounted on the front headrests. A tablet integrated into the rear armrest can control most of the car’s infotainment functions.

Buyers can choose among a pair of turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engines (224 hp and 252 hp variants) and a 340-hp 3.0-liter turbo V-6. An 8-speed automatic is standard.

The stretched 5 Series cars will be built at the joint venture plant BMW operates with Brilliance China Automotive Holdings in Shenyang exclusively for the Chinese market. Pricing will range from 450,000 yuan to 750,000 yuan ($65,300–$108,700).