2011 BMW 5-Series long-wheelbase launched in China

Due to demand from Asian markets, where many 5-Series cars are used as chauffeur driven limos, BMW has released a new long-wheelbase version of its popular luxury sedan. The new 2011 BMW 5-Series Long-Wheelbase has been designed and developed exclusively for the Chinese car market and will make its official debut next month at the 2010 Beijing Auto Show.

Designing the car was not simply a process of adding a couple of extra inches to the wheelbase. Individual design features along the roofline and the side view of the car ensure that the long-wheelbase version with its wheelbase up by 5.5 inches again offers the right balance of proportions.

Inside, the long-wheelbase sedan comes with a high-comfort rear seat bench developed specifically for this model. Comfort is ensured, among other things, by options such as four-zone automatic air conditioning, rear-seat entertainment, a cooling box as well as electrically adjustable sunblinds on the rear side windows and a folding table integrated in the backrest of the front passenger's seat, unique features unparalleled by the competition.

The range of engines comprises three straight-six power units developing between 204 and 306 horsepower, and all are matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Production will take place at BMW's plant in Shenyang, China and currently no other market launches are planned.