BMW launched the 5 Series LWB in the Indian market. It’s the third long-wheelbase sedan offered by the German luxury brand, after the 7 Series and 3 Series. Now, BMW is looking at introducing LWB SUVs as well. Jean-Philippe Parain, Senior Vice President for sales regions Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa said, “SUVs still make [up] more than 50 percent of BMW’s India sales. So it’s really, really important. And we are looking at all options. We understood that long wheelbase is important for the Indian market; because of the time spent on the road, space is a key feature.” Premium cars with extra legroom at the rear are extremely popular in China. BMW currently offers long-wheelbase versions of some of its SUVs like the iX1, X1, X3 and X5. The right-hand drive 3 Series and 5 Series LWB though, are exclusive to the Indian market. Rival Mercedes-Benz also offers a wide range of LWB models in China. The brand’s C-Class, E-Class, S-Class and the GLC SUV are available in the extended wheelbase form. Of these, only the E-Class LWB is offered in India. Source: Autocar India
